The aftermath of Hurricanes Helene and Milton brought unprecedented damage to the southeastern United States and parts of the Caribbean. The cost in property damage and human life was both staggering and heartbreaking. The golf industry was not spared; numerous golf courses were affected by the hurricanes. Flooding, wind damage, and storm surges left many courses in disrepair, with estimates of the total damages reaching tens of millions of dollars. This cost reflects the significant impact on infrastructure, including irrigation systems, greens, and clubhouse facilities. And the damage was inflicted on both the affluent (Augusta National) and the aspirational (dozens of munis and single-course operators).
One golf course operator shared how his course has been dealing with the recovery process: “It’s been a tough road, especially after Helene came through. We’ve had to completely redo our greens and replant several areas to stabilize the soil. The biggest challenge is balancing immediate repairs with making long-term upgrades that can withstand future storms. It’s a real test for us.” That owner’s experience highlights the complex decisions course managers face, as they not only restore facilities but also look to implement measures that prevent similar damage from future hurricanes.
For golf course owners dealing with the effects of hurricanes, a few key resources are available for recovery aid and assistance. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) offers assistance programs that can help with covering structural repairs and emergency costs, especially for facilities deemed essential to the community. Additionally, the Small Business Administration (SBA) provides low-interest disaster loans that allow businesses, including golf courses, to repair or replace damaged property and equipment. Local or state-level golf associations may also have programs or grants available to support recovery efforts, and in some cases, they may offer workshops on designing more resilient courses.
Another essential resource is the United States Golf Association (USGA). Through its Green Section, the USGA offers agronomic consulting, helping courses restore damaged greens, bunkers, and fairways in environmentally sustainable ways. These consultations provide courses with tailored recommendations that take into account unique regional conditions, helping them adapt their design and maintenance practices to better withstand future storms.
Lastly, engaging with industry peers through organizations like NGCOA can be invaluable. Networking with other golf course managers who have experienced similar impacts offers a chance to share strategies and solutions that have been effective. This community-driven approach not only provides moral support but also practical advice on navigating insurance claims, sourcing recovery funds, and implementing preventive measures.
For golf courses, the recovery from hurricanes Helene and Isaac remains an ongoing process. While significant costs and operational challenges persist, with strategic use of federal, state, and industry resources, many affected golf courses are making strides in their rebuilding efforts. And as they recover, the damage has once again prompted operators to rethink course design and management practices and to place increased emphasis on resilience against future extreme weather events. With continued attention to resilience in course design, we can hope for a future where facilities can better endure the effects of extreme weather events that are likely to become more frequent and more severe.