How to Build a Golf Sand Trap
By Jack S. Waverly
If you are building a miniature golf range for yourself, or would like to create a more realistic terrain on the range you already have, you need a sand trap to give you a place to improve your bunker play. Building one isn't difficult, but it's time consuming. You must do certain steps in order for the sand trap to function properly and not become a problem to maintain.
Instructions
Difficulty: Moderate
Select the location. Place it on the top of a hill if possible--this will allow proper drainage and also create a view for a full arc of shots. Look at the entire layout--stand on your practice tee and visualize where the sand trap can be placed to enhance the view and the play.
Draw up your plans. Make your outline fit the contour of the green. Lima-bean shapes work well for a diverse range of practice situations and swings. Understand: There is no perfect size or pattern as long as the sand trap fits the green. Using a chalk marker or wheel, make an outline on the ground where the sand trap will be.
Using a spade or a pickax, cut outside the outline of the sand trap. Use cornered edges so there is enough room to make the sand trap the size you want. Using a backhoe, start cutting out the sand trap, making sure the deepest part is about two feet at the center. Curve up to the sides as you dig, and pile the dirt to the side of the work area.
Lay a layer of gravel at the bottom of the sand trap a few inches thick to cover. This will prevent plants from invading the sand trap and allow for drainage. Place a tarp cover in the hole covering the entire sand trap up to the edge so you don't mix sand and dirt. Punch holes in the tarp where it covers the gravel to allow for drainage.
Dump your sand into the hole at one-foot levels. At each level, rake and shovel the sand to settle it; this will help prevent erosion. Continue working at one-foot levels until you reach the edge of the sand trap. Mix the sand with the dirt you removed around the edges so that the sand doesn't shift.
Surround your sand trap with a border of dirt or dirt-filled burlap sacks to form a lip. This can be from the remaining dirt you have left from digging the hole. Re-turf the area around the sand trap.
About The Author
Jack S. Waverly is a Pennsylvania-based freelance writer who has written hundreds of articles relating to business, finance, travel, history and health. His current focus is on pets, gardens, personal finance and business management. Waverly has been writing online content professionally since 2007 for various providers and websites.
