Oakland Hills Country Club’s South Course in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, underwent a full greens renovation to restore Donald Ross’ original design while elevating play to modern championship standards. Using a new sand/Profile® Porous Ceramic (PPC) Greens Grade™ mix, the project targeted slow-draining native push-up greens and the need for firm, fast conditions that still work for members. The revamped greens now deliver dramatically increased drainage, consistent firmness even after heavy rain, and long-term uniformity and plant health as the club looks toward future major championships.
Key Points
- South Course reconstruction aimed to use Donald Ross’ initial 1918 architecture and support major championships with over 200,000 square feet of bunkers and greens.
- Director of agronomy Phil Cuffare selected a new sand/Profile® Porous Ceramic (PPC) Greens Grade™ mix to achieve firm, fast greens with deeper rooting, increased drainage, nutrient retention and better water management.
- Renovation began in October 2019; the new greens mix significantly increased drainage from previously 4 inches per hour and maintained firmness even after an inch of rain.
- The course reopened in July 2021 to favorable reviews, delivering consistent, uniform conditions, premium plant health and a greens mix expected to withstand the test of time and support future major tournament discussions.
