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     Rathert International begins the design process by “sensing the site”. Visits to the proposed project are made and I evaluate what the land itself dictates - investigating the terrain, its natural features (including plant and wildlife) and the climate (wind, sun, temperature, humidity and altitude). At this time, I mentally formulate a “style” for the new golf course.

     Next, I prepare a Site Analysis which examines a wide variety of existing factors that will influence the proposed golf course and its feasibility, including; analyzing drainage patterns, identifying environmental resource areas, determining soil composition, locating existing water courses, evaluating existing vegetation, investigating social, civil and legal restrictions, and recognizing the overall economies of construction and potential management.

    

     Then, the scope of the entire project leads to the formulation of plans, specifications and finally, bidding requirements. The design process starts with the routing plan which shows the spatial relationship of all the conceptual elements to each other. This will be carried out in clear, concise construction drawings and specifications that become the disciplines and tools for developing the new course, keeping change orders to a minimum, and resolving issues that may arise. Items considered at this time will include: final hole locations, green and tee complexes, earth moving necessities, drainage planning, administrative areas, circulation, and timing of project construction activities.

     I know it is not enough to simply offer precise plans to follow, so I clearly communicate design intentions to those who will bid on the project, and ultimately do the work. Rathert International knows how to get Contractors to “see the concept” of the new course.

     

     Once the above processes have been completed, I am ready for the Construction sequence. Closely following the construction drawings, the first phase begins by staking the new course, clearing and grubbing the site. Next, mass earth moving and shaping take place. I personally observe each and every activity.

     The second phase covers drainage installation, irrigation, hardscape construction and the development of golf course features, including: tees, greens, fairways, rough, sand bunkers, grass hollows, mounds, drainage swales and lakes. During the shaping of these features, I take into consideration the design and location of all hardscapes, such as: water features, bridges, walls, and tee markers. Senior access, maintenance facilities, cart paths (including clubhouse circulation) are the last items to be installed in phase two. Again, I provide hands-on direction throughout all finished shaping activities.

     Finishing is the third phase and begins once the hardscape and irrigation system have been completed. This includes: tree planting (I review every tree stake prior to planting to ensure proper placement), top soil replacement (as needed), seed bed preparation, seeding and sodding. No seeding takes place without my approval of the finished grade. The grow-in period follows. During the grow-in and turf grass establishment period, I provide frequent site visitations. If necessary, an outside agronomist can be brought in to trouble shoot any turf problem areas.

     Finally, Rathert International provides quality control throughout the construction process with weekly site visits. Each and every visit is designed to monitor the implementation of the approved design plans. I serve as a clearing house for all construction activities, taking the course from design to opening day of play.