During the winter season of 2023/24, a prestigious Golf Club in Northern Ireland approached us with an urgent erosion issue on their course. The Six Mile River running alongside the 13th hole had created a significant scour issue on the course-side bank, gradually encroaching on the rough. If left unchecked, this could have led to further erosion, potentially reaching the edge of the green.
Understanding the need for a durable, long-term solution with minimal impact on the course, we arranged a site visit alongside the Golf Club maintenance team and their appointed contractor. After assessing the situation, we developed a plan to stabilise the riverbank using our Kyowa Filter Unit® Rockbags which are a proven scour protection system.
Planning for the Perfect Execution
Timing was crucial. To ensure the ground conditions were ideal, we scheduled the installation for the spring and summer months when the course would be drier. Our key priorities for the project were:
- Minimal downtime – keeping as much of the course open as possible.
- No damage to the course – preventing unnecessary restoration costs.
A one-time, effective solution – ensuring long-term stabil
Seamless Installation with Minimal Disruption
To streamline the process, the Rockbags were pre filled and stored at the greenkeeper’s shed/service area close to the affected site. On installation day, only two holes needed to be temporarily closed for just two days.
Large ground mats were laid across the two holes to protect the turf, and a 60-tonne crane was strategically positioned on the fairway close to the embankment.. A small Merlo machine efficiently transported the filled bags from the storage area to the rough, where they were prepped for placement. Remarkably, very little groundwork was required before positioning the bags, simplifying the process even further.
The crane lifted and placed the bags two at a time, systematically constructing a reinforced riverbank. The entire installation took just one day, with minimal disruption and zero damage to the course.
A Natural Finish for Long-Term Protection
Once all the scour protection bags were in place, the the golf course greenkeeping team covered them with soil and grass seed. Over time, the grass naturally grew over the bags, seamlessly blending them into the landscape while reinforcing the newly secured bank.
The result- A highly effective, discreet, and long-lasting solution—keeping the course intact, the riverbank stabilised and play uninterrupted.
This project showcases how practical engineering solutions can seamlessly integrate with the natural environment, providing protection without compromising the beauty of the landscape.
If your course or property is facing a similar erosion challenge, get in touch with us today to discuss how we can help.
