Garland Resort Lewiston, Michigan
Garland Lodge and Resort consists of four golf courses, Fountains, Swampfire,
Monarch, and Reflections. Designed by the resorts first owner, the courses have
seen no updates since opening. The first course opened in 1951 with many of those holes used as part of three of the courses. All the other courses were designed in the late 1980’s and early 1990’s. In 2009 the resort was purchased by the Forsythe Family, led by Gerald Forsythe. Mr. Forsythe is the owner and developer of Canyata Golf Club located in Marshall, IL. Canyata debuted as the #2 Best New Private Course in 2005 by Golf Digest. Today it ranks as #39 in Golf Digest’s list of America’s Top 100 Golf Courses.
Upon purchase Michael J. Benkusky, Inc. was brought in to the review the courses and make improvements. Following a survey of golfers it was determined that the bunkers were the biggest complaint. Planning and construction began immediately on the Fountains Course with a plan for new bunker locations and a new bunker style. A variety of goals will be accomplished including providing a more consistent sand. Maintenance will also play an important factor as the number of bunkers will be reduced from 53 bunkers and 81,400 Sq. ft. to a final design that includes 34 bunker, totaling 50,800 sq. ft. These new bunkers will also improve the courses strategy and frame landing areas and green complexes. Finally, the new design will give and updated look to the facility, one that has already been well received by the members.
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Member American Society of Golf Course Architects
MICHAEL J. BENKUSKY, INC - GOLF COURSE ARCHITECTURE
3813 Sonoma Circle
Lake in the Hills, IL 60156
815.474.8385