Golf Bunker Raking Influencing Factors

The regularity and timing of raking bunkers can vary significantly from course to course, with some influencing factors being:

• Weather conditions: If it has been raining a lot then the sand can become firmed by the rain and will typically need opening up, whilst if it is consistency dry then wind blow can increase, meaning redistribution of some sand will be needed. In addition, much of the sand can start to form a surface crust and become hard, with golf balls often rolling out of the sand rather than being trapped as originally designed.

• The time of year: During the autumn period there is an increased likelihood of fallen tree leaves being blown into bunkers.

• The level of raking carried out by players will impact on requirements from the greens staff.

• The popularity of some bunkers: Those which are routinely inundated by miss hits will need increased raking.

• The number of competitions: Higher presentational standards are usually expected for competitions.

• The overall standard of course.

• The extent of play that occurs: A busy course will have different demands to that of a much less used course.

• The extent of damage form animals, especially rabbits and foxes.

• To ensure an adequate safe surface is provided for golfers considering all of the above factors.