Disc golfers have an inherent appreciation for forests, whether consciously realized or not. Our ritualistic complaints about “stupid trees” are stated aloud, but deep down we know the trees help shape the game, create addictive challenge, and make it a beautiful sport.
Yet most players give little attention to the details of these trees. A deeper understanding of tree species, their varied forms, and the ecological context of our courses can deepen our love and appreciation for the game – and maybe even provide a slight competitive edge.
This appreciation becomes even more important as we consider disc golf’s future. If we envision a future where disc golf continues to grow and courses continue to improve, we need that future to be compatible with forest management, environmental sustainability, and good natural resource stewardship. In the long-term, that probably looks like public-private partnerships, detailed manuals outlining best management practices for disc golf forests, and more ecological expertise in course design and maintenance – but in the immediate term, we can all build a deeper appreciation for the trees, the forests, and the surrounding landscapes that our courses are built within.
As a 900-something rated disc golfer (PDGA# 158863), but a 1000+ rated ecologist (if such ratings existed), I clearly cannot guarantee you that learning more about forest ecology will improve your golf game – but I’m confident that it will enrich your appreciation for the world we live in and give you some fun talking points to spark conversations with fellow players.
What readers and followers of this space will learn:
- Key principles of forest ecology through the lens of disc golf courses
- How forest ecology and land use history shape course design and playability
- Regional forest types: dominant trees, their natural history stories, and iconic courses that showcase these environments
- How to identify common forest threats and their impact on course design and long-term management
- Sustainable course maintenance practices that support both playability and forest health
- The role of wildlife habitat in disc golf forest management
And more! I’ll cover current environmental issues as they intersect with disc golf. Consider subscribing to updates!