By: Erik Matuszewski, Forbes

The investment in golf, and particularly golf course projects, has remained significant over the past decade, if you know where to look.

Since 2006, when a trend of more golf course closures than openings began, there have been almost 1,000 major renovations across the U.S. that -- conservatively -- represent an investment of $3 billion, according to the National Golf Foundation.

It's a significant number and one that would grow exponentially if we consider minor rehabilitation projects (bunker work here and there, tweaking a green, removing trees, installing new cart paths); really anything that doesn't require at least nine holes to close for at least three months.

So let's not cling to a misinformed narrative that money is running from golf.

Read the full article here.

By: Matt Weiser, News Deeply

It's hard times in the golf industry, especially in drought-plagued western states.

Golf participation in the U.S. declined 20 percent from 2003 to 2014, and the number of golfers aged 34 and under declined 30 percent. Add the fact that many courses are suffering water shortages, and it becomes even harder to attract players long accustomed to lush green fairways.

This probably isn’t the end of golf. But it does mean players have to change their expectations, and golf course owners must adapt. This could mean shrinking course size from the traditional 18 holes to 9 holes to accommodate both water shortages and players who have less time.

Historically, that sort of move was unthinkable. Now it’s a survival strategy.

Read the complete article here.

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