Concerns have been raised over the effect that the longer pasture rough is having on pace of play. Obviously there will be an adjustment period as golfers get used to these areas of longer grass. Please keep the following in mind to avoid any negative impact on pace of play:
1.When you hit a ball that may end up in an area of long grass that is not part of a hazard, hit a provisional ball to speed up play in the instance that you are not able to find it (be sure to follow the correct procedure for provisional balls as outlined in the Rules of Golf).
2.Areas of long grass which have been marked with red stakes (ie right on #5 & #7, left on #8 & #11) are considered lateral water hazards. You are entitled to relief within two club-lengths from where the ball last crossed the margin, no nearer the hole, under penalty of one stroke.
3.If you are constantly hitting it into the pasture rough on a particular hole re-consider your club selection. Perhaps driver is not the best choice if it means you can’t find the fairway or primary rough.
4.When playing socially, select tees suitable for your ability.
5.Spend no more than a couple minutes searching for a ball in the long grass (if you spend the full five minutes you are entitled to, allow following groups to play through as space permits to avoid further delays).
6.All players should ensure they follow the flight (and, when possible, the roll) of their ball to its conclusion to minimize the search area.
Thanks for your adoption of these techniques to help with our pace of play as everyone adjusts to the areas of pasture rough.