The American Society of Golf Course Architects (ASGCA) was founded in 1946 and has evolved into a collective of the most acclaimed and experienced professionals in the industry. When those searching for golf course architects select an ASGCA member for their project, they know they are choosing among the very best the industry has to offer.

The ASGCA Difference
A professionally designed course reflects the training and experience of its architect. ASGCA members know how to avoid crucial mistakes that can often lead to improperly built greens requiring constant maintenance and attention, poor drainage flow that leaves standing water around the course and dangerous traffic patterns that can cause serious accidents among players. ASGCA members work hand-in-hand with the project team to develop the best possible Master Plans that are sensitive to maintenance budgets and utilize smart designs and construction for the betterment of the course.

The golf course design process is complex, yet each step helps ensure that a course will be enjoyed for many years. Here are key steps that a golf course architect may take during planning and construction: Preliminary Site Survey Program Development Preliminary Design Studies and Cost Estimate Preparation of Master Development Plan and Final Cost Estimate Inspection of Construction Implementation of Golf Course Operation and Maintenance Checklist of Follow-up Procedures

The game of golf has a myriad of subtleties developed through its long history. It is important that an architect recognize this and incorporate it into their design decisions. Designing a golf course is more than a simple exercise in landscape architecture. Nor should it be looked upon as simply a large-scale construction project. A golf course architect, much like a musical conductor, blends a variety of disciplines into a worthwhile and unique project. As such, it is often said that golf course design is just as much an art form as it is a skilled profession. ASGCA members understand that balance.

Cross-Categorical Skill Set Required
Only through a thorough knowledge of the game of golf can the architect develop a true understanding of strategy, shot value, limitations of players and equipment, and realistic design possibilities. Today's golf course architect also must have the training and experience to coordinate work in other areas. ASGCA members are well-versed in the following:

Landscape Architecture: Only the most competent land sculptors can design courses that are compatible with the natural landscape, while also properly featuring and preserving the surroundings.

Civil Engineering: Knowledge of surveying, transit and level operation, aerial photography and topographic maps is basic to planning the routing of the course.

Hydraulic Engineering: Design of irrigation systems demands understanding of hydraulics, pumps, piping systems, creation of ponds, lagoons, waterways, etc.

Agrostology: A solid background in turf culture and care is critical when specifying and preparing turf areas.

Heavy Construction: The considerable earth moving necessary to build a golf course requires an understanding of heavy equipment and its capabilities.

Plans, Specifications: Detailed plans and specifications covering all phases of construction, clearing, excavation of ponds or lakes, grading, irrigation installation, green and tee construction, planting of grass and trees, and early maintenance must be prepared.

Cost Estimating: The preparation of plans and specifications makes it possible to present realistic budgets so that adequate financing can be arranged.

Because golf course architecture is such a specialized field, new projects often require solutions for specific problems of earth moving, drainage, pond or lake design, irrigation, water supply, conservation of trees and ecological considerations. ASGCA members not only provide these services, they ensure that they work in concert with each other to provide for a harmonious design and construction process. They are amongst the elite in the architectural and engineering fields. To find a golf course architect that's right for the project, be sure to visit the Find a Member section of the ASGCA website.

Next: Site Selection »