Bear course drainage ditch work

We are getting an early start on our summer projects and have begun work to eliminate the drainage ditch between the 10th and 16th fairways on the Bear course.  This ditch holds water year round and spans a 110' section between two 30" culvert pipes.  Our plan is to take advantage of the dry conditions and low water table levels and dredge the ditch, install new pipe to connect the two culverts, and fill in the ditch.  The ditch will not be missed as it is both unsightly and within the landing area for errant shots on both holes.  We should complete the project in the first week of May, and will allow the area to settle for a couple weeks before sodding.  Stay tuned for before/after photos.

Birds at The Forest

As we can all attest to, wildlife is part of what makes The Forest such a special place.  This was demonstrated in late March when an adult osprey was released in the open area adjacent to #15 Bear tees.  The female osprey was rescued from this same area by Forest member Mr. Ben-Susan and rehabilitated for a month at the Center for Rehabilitation of Wildlife (C.R.O.W.) on Sanibel Island.  The bird was successfully reunited with her mate.  Below is a video of the release of this beautiful animal. 

Below are some more bird photos taken on the courses (credit Bear Course Superintendent Jake Caleca):

Two Great Horned Owlets nesting behind #2 Bobcat green 

Wood storks (endangered species)



Female osprey (check out the talons!)

Bald eagle keeping a watchful eye on #4 Bobcat