The gorse in question was old, degenerate and encroaching on the carry which was blocking the view of the left half of the fairway. Hopefully members will now appreciate the improved view and also that we have managed to create an area of fantastic ecological significance at the same time.
These two photos show the original degenerate gorse.
The gorse was cut and removed for burning. This of course left the are open to regeneration however we wished to transform the area and not simply allow it to return to its original state.
The gorse stumps and roots were removed where there was not room for burying.
Where possible, holes were dug and the roots buried to prevent regrowth. The natural sand that was excavated was then replaced on top.
Clean sand was brought in from another area to give the area better presentation and improve the sand depth.
Natural dune species were then selected from other areas of the course. These included natural Fecsues, Bents, Dune Rose, Marram and Heather along with many others.
Some of the Marram was more efficiently transplanted using a front loader to dig out as much root as possible.
As you can see from these before and after photos the area has been truly transformed.
The area has gone from supporting a single mass of degenerate gorse to 20-30 different species of natural dune plants and grasses. This has improved the links characteristic of the hole and provided a great habitat for local species. The team are very proud of this work and hope that the members also appreciate the ongoing program of links restoration.
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