Rob Thomas and James Symons, Director of Agronomy at Anthem Country Club, discuss the challenges and achievements of water conservation at the Las Vegas facility. Symons highlights the club’s efforts to reduce water usage by 25% by converting fairways from perennial ryegrass to Bermuda grass, saving nearly 50 million gallons in 2024. Despite member concerns, the transition was successful, with Bermuda grass providing better playability and water efficiency. Symons also mentions the use of advanced irrigation systems, soil sensors, and turf radar to optimize water usage. Looking ahead, Symons expresses concerns about future water scarcity and the need for continued proactive measures to sustain the club’s operations.

Also in the news … Reynolds Lake Oconee announces its eighth golf course. Golf course architect Steve Smyers will design a new private course at the Central Georgia property. Fenmoor Golf Club is slated to open in Fall 2026.

This Florida club completed a remarkable comeback after Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Carrollwood Country Club’s three nine-hole golf courses were fully restored by early 2025. The Tampa, Fla., club has now returned to full operational excellence, making it difficult to detect that any severe weather events occurred last year. “We were prepared to recover fast,” says Brian Thornbury, Carrollwood’s General Manager. Now is the time to prepare.

Lastly, Pebble Beach Golf Links will pursue a first-in-nation permit. California Coastkeeper Alliance, The Otter Project, Monterey Waterkeeper, and Pebble Beach Company announce a landmark initiative underscoring joint commitment to water quality in the Carmel Bay.