Beyond the Green: Creating Positive Outcomes From Unfortunate Scenarios

Author

• Caden Allen

Files

Date of Award

5-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Landscape Architecture

College

Arts and Sciences

Department

Landscape Architecture, Disaster Resiliency & Emergency Management (LADREM)

Faculty Advisor

Craig Larson

Studio Coordinator

Jay Kost

Faculty Chair

Dominic Fischer

Publisher

North Dakota State University

Rights

NDSU policy 190.6.2

URI

https://www.ndsu.edu/fileadmin/policy/190.pdf

Abstract

This thesis explores sustainable design strategies for golf courses, focusing on reducing environmental impacts through landscape management. Using case studies from Rivermont Golf Club and Memorial Park Golf Course, the research looks into the successful approaches in organic soil management, water conservation, and habitat creation. The findings highlight the importance of reducing the total amount of maintained turf areas, creating water reuse systems, and enhancing biodiversity through native plantings. These findings are then applied to the redesign of Ray Richards Golf Course, where a combination of native grasses, retention basins, and improved site features demonstrates the potential for sustainable golf course transformations. This project emphasizes that sustainability in golf course design is not only achievable but also beneficial for the health of the surrounding ecosystems and the overall player experience.

Recommended Citation

Allen, Caden, "Beyond the Green: Creating Positive Outcomes From Unfortunate Scenarios" (2025). Landscape Architecture Theses. 17.
https://digitalcommons.ndsu.edu/landscape-architecture-theses/17