On the 26th of September, 2024, Augusta, Georgia experienced the wrath of Hurricane Helene, a day it won’t easily forget. The Bobby Jones Links-operated Forest Hills Golf Course was not spared, bearing its own share of the hurricane’s aftermath.
Hurricane Aftermath and Recovery Efforts
The Forest Hills Golf Course, owned by Augusta University and famous for being where Bobby Jones clinched the Southeast Amateur in the same year of his Grand Slam, was preparing to reopen in October, following a complete greens renovation that started in June 2024. Unfortunately, the hurricane struck just days before the reopening, blowing down nearly 1,500 trees and leaving debris scattered throughout. Despite the unexpected setback, the course staff and two tree companies worked tirelessly for six weeks to reopen the golf course. Today, the golf course is once again vibrant, with only minor projects yet to be completed.
Joshua Deal, Vice President of Operations at Bobby Jones Links, and President of the Georgia Section PGA of America, commended the recovery effort, noting that the biggest challenge was dealing with the tree clean-up so that they could safely reopen to members and guests. Following the initial clean-up, the team could then begin the aesthetic restoration, a process that lasted six months.
Recovery Challenges and Community Support
The removal of toppled trees inflicted further damage on the course due to the required machinery. Cart path repairs were prioritized to ensure safe mobility around the property, while irrigation systems were initially overlooked as there was no need to water the course during winter. As spring came, the damage to the irrigation systems was discovered and the course superintendent and his crew began repairs.
Despite the ordeal, the community support for Forest Hills was tremendous. Members and guests alike were elated to have the golf course open again and were particularly fond of the new greens. The course reopened in a commendable condition, fueling optimism and momentum amid the clean-up efforts following the hurricane.
The Long History and Resilience of Forest Hills Golf Course
The Forest Hills Golf Course, which was first opened in 1926, is known not only as the home of Augusta University’s golf team, but also for hosting a major college event every April. These and other events, especially the Masters’ week, are instrumental to the club’s annual revenues.
With such a rich history, the Forest Hills Golf Course is indeed a fixture of Augusta. The course has proven resilient; regardless of the hurricane, it won’t be going anywhere anytime soon and will continue to be a cherished Augusta golf course for many years to come.
The post Augusta’s Forest Hills Golf Course is Back and Better Than Ever appeared first on Northeast Golf.
Article Link: Golf Course Recovery: Forest Hills Rises After the Storm