During the Golden Age of golf course architecture, spanning from the early 20th century to the Great Depression, legendary designers like Ross, Tillinghast, Maxwell, Langford & Moreau, Colt, Allison, Raynor, McDonald, and Dr. Alister MacKenzie as well as many others crafted courses with strategic nuances and natural aesthetics. These layouts embraced the existing topography, often incorporating minimalist designs that allowed for a more strategic style of play. However, in recent years, some golf courses have fallen victim to an overabundance of trees, deviating from their original intent. The indiscriminate planting of trees has altered sightlines, obstructed natural hazards, and disrupted the ebb and flow of the game. Critics argue that this excess foliage not only diminishes the architectural integrity of these classic courses but also makes them less enjoyable for players seeking the challenge and beauty that defined the Golden Age designs.

My query is this. How did these courses go from their original designs, to the “overtreed” courses that litter the US today?

In recent years restorations to original designer intent always involves some form of tree removal; ranging from a few dozen removals to a few hundred removal and more.

Did literally all these courses golf course supers simultaneously all just stop maintaining the courses critical areas ? Allowing for trees that have grown for 30-40-50-60 years!