Both Courses are Closed Today - June 2
We finally got some much needed rain, but it seemed to all come at once and has flooded the courses. As such, both of our courses will be closed all day..

However, every cloud has a silver lining, and in this case, it's a shiny, irresistible "Rained Out Sale" at our golf shops! To brighten up your day, we're offering:

• 25% Off All Apparel and Hats
• 25% Off Most Putters and Wedges
• 20% Off Balls, Gloves and Bags 

For those who still wish to defy the elements and work on their swing, our ranges will be open at 8am. Just swing by the golf shop to get started.

We appreciate your understanding and hope you'll take advantage of this opportunity to stock up on some great Westbrook gear at even better prices. Here's to hoping we'll see the sun sooner rather than later, but to be honest I think it was 113 last June 2!

UPDATE ON THE LAKES PRACTICE GREEN

As in previous summers, the Lakes Practice Green will be closed for a few weeks to encourage transition and recovery with nutrients and a few needle tine treatments. This update provides background on the recurring issue, expert analysis, and current status as we work to improve long-term conditions.

BACKGROUND
The Lakes Practice Green was rebuilt and enlarged in 2020 to address poor turf quality and high usage. While the renovation improved winter performance, the same decline occurs each summer as we transition to Bermuda grass.

EXPERT ANALYSIS
Agronomist Brian Whitlock (USGA) and golf course architect Gary Brawley identified two primary factors:

• Excessive shade from surrounding trees, impacting the Bermuda's ability to thrive
• Poor air circulation due to the proximity of the clubhouse, which traps moisture and encourages surface algae

1. Evaluate the Well and Irrigation System's current status
2. Determine priorities
3. Identify funding sources

We’re pleased to share the recent USGA Green Section Agronomist Report from their April 3, 2025 visit to Westbrook Village Golf Club. This visit, conducted by Brian Whitlark, USGA Agronomist and Regional Director, was part of our ongoing commitment to professional course evaluation and continuous improvement.

The USGA Green Section is the gold standard in turfgrass science and golf course management. Their on-site evaluations offer unbiased, research-backed guidance on agronomic practices, resource sustainability, and golfer experience. Below is a summary of the key findings and recommended actions from the report:

🧪 Key Agronomic Insights & Recommendations

1. Vistas Course: New Well & Irrigation

• Observation: The current irrigation system is reaching its end of life.

• Recommendation: Prioritize funding a new water well and plan for full irrigation system replacement. Efficient water delivery is crucial for turf health, particularly in the desert environment.

2. Putting Greens: Transition is Already Underway

• Observation: Bermudagrass is starting to emerge early under the winter overseed.

• Action: Apply additional nitrogen fertilizer to accelerate healthy regrowth. This ensures a smooth and firm putting surface through the summer transition.

3. Fairways: Fertility & Recovery

• Observation: Spring transition is underway for our common bermudagrass.

• Action: Increase water and fertility inputs. Products like Sapphire® are helping push the turf through transition and improve coverage.

• Observation: Tee leveling projects are well underway.

• Action: Continue and expand these efforts. Level, well-sized tees enhance aesthetics and playability for all skill levels.

5. Bunkers: Sand Consistency

• Observation: Playability is improved with added sand and aggressive raking routine.

• Action: Additional rototilling will help fluff compacted sand and provide consistent lies throughout the season.

6. Lakes Practice Tee: Surface & Longevity

• Observation: Uneven surfaces impact practice quality.

• Action: Plan for tee leveling this summer and consider integrating synthetic turf in select areas to withstand high traffic and conserve water.

View Past USGA Reports

⛳ Why This Matters

Our partnership with the USGA ensures that our course care is backed by the latest turfgrass research and best practices from clubs across the country. By following their recommendations, we enhance:

• Turf health and year-round consistency

• Water use efficiency in our desert climate

• The overall member and guest playing experience

You can read the full report here:
📄 Download USGA Agronomist Report – April 2025

We appreciate your continued support and feedback as we invest in the long-term quality and sustainability of both our courses.