Duluth‘s Public Golf Program: A Shot Above Expectations?
Despite initial projections of a $276,000 loss, Duluth’s public golf program is ending the year with a significantly smaller deficit. Jessica Peterson, the city’s parks and recreation manager, announced that the program is projected to finish about 80% below its projected loss, losing approximately $54,000.
This positive trend comes despite significant challenges. Enger Park Golf Course, the city’s sole remaining public course, operated at around two-thirds capacity due to a major overhaul of its irrigation system.
"We all cried a few tears of joy the first day we turned the new system on and saw it throwing water onto our golf course. We had worked very hard to get to that day," Peterson said, reflecting on the successful rollout of the updated system.
Despite limited capacity, Enger Park saw a slight decrease in play, with golfers completing just under 31,000 rounds in 2024 compared to 33,000 in the previous year. Overall participation in Duluth’s public golf has dwindled since the closure of Lester Park Golf Course in 2019. In 2015, golfers played over 81,000 rounds across the city’s two courses. By the time Lester was shuttered in 2019, play had already dropped by nearly 37%. While a resurgence in the sport’s popularity during the pandemic provided a brief uptick, local municipal golf activity has continued to decline in recent years.
Looking ahead, Peterson remains optimistic. “We’re optimistic we will see an upward trend in rounds at Enger next year," she said.
Next year, the city projects a slight increase in play to around 34,000 rounds at Enger. Viewers can expect to see all 27 holes at Enger operational by Memorial Day, after a major capital project that saw
Like many courses nationwide, Enger Park has dealt with declining participation,
$7.46 million
stability.
Duluth is investing $7.46 million in a completely new irrigation system for Enger, which will include a self-contained reservoir instead of relying on Buckingham Creek.
An additional $910,000 is being invested in restoring Buckingham Creek
,” Peterson said.
This investment in restoration is expected to greatly benefit the environment.
"The creek will be fully daylighted and no longer culverted nor passing through the ponds, and our fish habitat will be greatly improved," Peterson said history the creek,
While the
Enger Golf Course anticipates a net income of over $205,000 next year, a significant portion of that income ($178,500) will go towards repaying debts associated with recent golf course improvements. This leaves the city anticipating a modest profit approaching $27,000.
.
## Duluth’s Public Golf Program: Teeing Off Towards Financial Stability?
**Despite initial projections of a substantial deficit, Duluth’s public golf program is finishing the year in a surprisingly strong financial position.** This unexpected turnaround, largely attributed too a prosperous irrigation system overhaul at Enger Park Golf Course, raises questions about the future of public golf in the city.
To delve deeper into this unexpected success story, we sat down with **Jessica Peterson**, the city’s Parks and Recreation Manager, whose leadership has been central to navigating the challenges facing Duluth’s golf program.
**Enger Park’s Irrigation Overhaul: A Game Changer?**
**WTN:** Ms. Peterson, the new irrigation system at Enger Park seems to have played a key role in this year’s improved financial performance. Can you tell us more about its impact?
**Jessica Peterson:** Absolutely. The new system has been a game changer. It allows us to maintain the course with greater efficiency, conserving both water and resources. We’re also seeing healthier turf conditions, which ultimately leads to a better playing experience for our golfers.
**WTN:** The article mentions that the irrigation project relied on a self-contained reservoir rather than Buckingham Creek. What was the motivation behind this decision?
**Jessica Peterson:** Our goal was to move away from relying on Buckingham Creek, which is crucial for the local ecosystem. By establishing a self-contained system, we not only ensure the long-term health of the course but also contribute to the ecological well-being of the surrounding area.
** WT**: It sounds like sustainability was a major consideration in this project.
**Jessica Peterson:** We firmly believe in balancing recreation with environmental obligation. This project exemplifies that commitment.
**The Future of Golf in Duluth: A Par for the Course?**
**WTN:** Looking ahead, what are your projections for the future of public golf in Duluth?
**Jessica Peterson:** We’re optimistic! We project a slight increase in play next year, and with all 27 holes at Enger operational, we expect to see a positive trend in the years to come. We’re also excited about the restoration of Buckingham Creek, which will further enhance the aesthetics and ecological value of the area.
**WTN:** What strategies will the city employ to attract more golfers to Enger Park?
**Jessica Peterson:** We’re exploring various initiatives, including youth golf programs, special events, and partnerships with local businesses. Our goal is to create a welcoming and accessible environment for golfers of all ages and skill levels.
**Weighing the Costs and Benefits: A Long-Term Strategy?**
**WTN:** While it’s clear that golf is an important recreational amenity for Duluth, it’s also been financially challenged in recent years. How does the city balance those factors in its decision-making?
**Jessica Peterson:** We understand the importance of fiscal responsibility. Though, we believe that public amenities like golf courses contribute to the overall quality of life in our community. The recent success of the Enger park improvements demonstrates our commitment to investing in thes assets and ensuring their long-term viability.
**WTN:** The city is projecting a modest profit from golf next year, most of which will go towards repaying debts. How does the city plan to ensure ongoing financial sustainability for the program?
**Jessica Peterson:** We’re committed to a balanced approach that includes responsible investment, efficient operations, and strategic partnerships.We’ll continue to evaluate the program’s performance and make adjustments as needed to ensure its long-term financial health.
**Key Takeaways: A Hopeful Future on the Green**
Duluth’s public golf program has demonstrated remarkable resilience,overcoming significant financial challenges to deliver a promising outlook for the future.the successful renovation of Enger Park, coupled with a dedication to sustainability and community engagement, paves the way for a brighter future for this cherished recreational resource.
**what are your thoughts on the future of public golf in Duluth? Share your comments below!**
**Read More:**
* Duluth Invests in Park Improvements
* The Economic Impact of Public Recreation
