Area golf courses urge patience with persistent dry conditions

While recent warm temperatures have tempted golfers to return to area courses, including walking them, greenskeepers and other staff in Colman and Flandreau are urging early spring golfers to hold off a bit longer.
Their concerns come as the region continues to experience a lack of rainfall, making it difficult for courses to recover from divots, hack marks, and other wear and tear. Spring is already a delicate time for course maintenance, and without sufficient moisture, grass regrowth is slow.
It upsets people that they cant go out and golf when its 60 degrees, said Rivers Bend Golf Course Board President Jason Ramsdell.
But it does no good to the course to get people out there. The private ones, they dont let anybody out there right now. Its not until they can get water on growing grass to let somebody out.
Despite the temporary delay, both courses are anticipating strong seasons ahead. In Flandreau, an upgraded irrigation system is expected to improve course conditions at Rivers Bend, while in Colman, Sunrise Ridge is benefiting from a brand-new irrigation system. These investments, along with additional course and clubhouse improvements, aim to enhance the playing experience for members and visitors alike.
In Colman, city leaders recently discussed applying for a grant to address ongoing drainage issues on the course, though the conversation was tabled earlier this month. The possibility of improving water managementkeeping the course irrigated during dry spells and ensuring proper drainage during heavy rains or floodingremains a key focus for course management and the city council.
Jay Groos provided information on the courses drainage challenges, particularly regarding the ponds. Shane Waterman of IMEG was also present at the last regularly scheduled City Council meeting to answer questions related to a 2020 drainage study and its connection to the citys sewer system.
Officials noted there may be two potential funding sources for drainage upgrades, but further research is needed before any decisions are made.
Additional upgrades at the Colman course include new railings on the clubhouse porch, kitchen renovations, and tree plantings. Leaders are also considering interior clubhouse revisions to better accommodate guests, aiming to make the space more functional for events and gatherings.
Sunrise Ridge aims to open to the public [insert anticipated opening date if known]. Rivers Bend, Ramsdell said, plans to reopen the clubhouse the first week in April, with hopes that golf will follow shortly after.
Its a fun, challenging course, and at the end of last year, it looked the best it has in quite a few, Ramsdell said. Pending any floods, it should look good again this year, and were hoping to get a lot of traffic out there and have some fun days.