Golf course trees down

Grant County Port District 7, which runs Banks Lake Golf Course, has cut down a number of cottonwood trees at the course. The decision was made earlier this year because roots from the trees were tearing up the asphalt cart paths and in some cases "roots were growing into some of the greens," port commissioner Jerry Sands stated. Sands said 13 trees were eliminated and several more cottonwood trees need to be cut down. "When they planted the cottonwoods, I understand," Sands said, "they only planned on leaving them in for 10 years or so." The cottonwoods have been in for over 30 years. Sands called the cottonwoods "ugly," and said as they age the trees rot from the inside out. "The roots that run along the top of the ground are a hazard for our mowers," Sands said. Golfers have long complained about trying to find their golf balls when they roll into the leaves. And the fallen leaves in the fall are a problem to pick up, with the limited manpower available. The Port District manages the 18-hole course and has for the past three seasons, relying mostly on volunteer labor.

There still are scores of cottonwood trees sprinkled along the 18 fairways.

Most of the remaining trees on the course are evergreens, many planted over 20 years ago by the Rotary Club.