A few words about sand traps, or bunkers, as they are properly called.  In a recent survey of superintendents, it was found that, on average, labor costs for bunker maintenance ranges from 15 to 25 percent of total labor.  The average bunker maintenance costs range from $75,000 to $100,000. 

            Though bunkers are an important part of the game of golf, their care has become a burden for many courses.  Golfer expectations are out of wack regarding grooming and consistency.  There are two factors that have the greatest effect on bunker condition.  First is the lack of golfer etiquette when it comes to raking after playing out of a bunker.  Secondly is the lack of knowledge as to how to properly play a bunker shot. 

            The following is from the June Golf Magazine  “Rulebook” column by Eamon Lynch:  “If you are a lousy bunker player and have a nasty lie in the sand, take the coward’s way out.  Rather than your usual futile flailing, declare the ball unplayable – you are the sole judge of what’s unplayable, says Rule 28 – and drop it as close as possible to the spot from which you last played.  Sure, it’s ugly golf and costs you a stroke, but at least you’ll leave some sand behind for the next guy.”