Steve Timm Design specializes in the renovation and improvement if existing golf courses. Golf technology, by the year 2003, had expanded the potential length of a shot by a driver, struck by a consummate player, to nearly incomprehensible dimensions. In fact, a study completed by Mr. Dick Rugge of the United States Golf Association, on the increase in the average driving distance of  PGA Tour players from 1996 to 2001, increased by 12%. Even the average golfer is experiencing longer drives but not necessarily straight. This fact puts older golf courses at risk as it relates to a higher frequency of players hitting golf shots off the golf course property and striking homes, moving cars, pedestrians, horses etc. This reality creates a new liability for golf course owners and managers.

Fortunately, not all players hit the ball as far as Tour players. However, when most players are experiencing longer drives on the golf course, the introduction of one or two  individuals that drives the ball a long distance but not straight can wreak havoc on the operation of the course on a given day. Ultimately, the guidelines of the Urban Land Institute, as they are presently written (or omitted), are of little use to a golf course with centerlines appropriate to the dimensions of the game 50 years ago. In this case Steve can evaluate your course for these  shortcomings and recommend and design the appropriate improvements. We also can consult for the Tee it Forward initiative on all golf courses. Attached below are a couple of examples of holes that Steve, in conjunction with Bob Cupp successfully redesigned to reduce errant golf balls being hit off the property