BARONA CREEK GOLF CLUB

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Original Design

The Barona Band of Mission Indians wanted a special amenity for the guests headed to their new resort and casino.  The gently rolling topography, unique natural features and panoramic views of the canyon were elements often found on exceptional golf courses.  The Tribe appreciated our philosophy of designing a golf course gently set into the natural features, and not a golf course imposing its will on the land.

Initially, as senior designer for Gary Roger Baird Design International, we spent many days and long hours identifying the unique natural elements that would be incorporated into the routing.  Dry creeks, rock outcroppings and old, majestic oak trees were mapped and noted. Holes were routed to move into and around the oaks.  Rock outcroppings were showcased to set greens against and hide tees into. Variety in the design became an overriding focus, as well as allowing multiple ways for golfers to play the holes. Environmentally friendly design and sustainability we important themes as well.

Little dirt was moved.  By enhancing and utilizing the dry creeks, the site continued to drain as it had for the last thousand years.  All the runoff from the site was recaptured downstream and reused for irrigation water.  The course was grassed with water saving bermudagrass and the total acreage of turf kept small.