Carts In Fairways Only - WHY?

On numerous occasions, I receive the questions:
"Why are carts in fairways only today?"
"Why are carts in the roughs only today?"

There are 3 main factors involved in how cart decisions are made on a day to day basis.

1.  In most cases, the fairways drain quicker.  The turf is cut shorter so it dries quicker.  There is also drainage installed in the subsurface of the fairways to get rid of the water quicker.  So whenever possible, we ask that carts be kept in the fairways.

2.  The roughs have longer turf and it does not dry as fast.  The roughs do not have drainage in the subsurface like the fairways do so they stay wetter longer.   The roughs have numerous bird baths and low areas resulting in standing water.  Therefore, the carts can cause more damage in the roughs during wet periods.

3.  No two rain periods have the exact same effect on the course.   Decisions on specific cart usage for any individual day depends on a number of factors.  Drying times depend on:
      How much did it rain on a particular
      How much did it rain on previous days
      How soon does the sun begin to shine
      Is there sufficient wind movement to aide
           in drying the course
      What are the humidity levels and how do they
           affect the course drying process
     
Standing water in the roughs can limit  cart usage because carts cannot get to the fairway without causing damage

                                                                                                      

                                                                            

Every morning each fairway and rough are check for moisture & saturation levels.  Carts are available whenever remotely possible.  I understand the necessity of cart usage for many of our members.  But as you can see, there are simply days when carts cannot access the course without causing significant damage.