Surface Water

Prevention of localised surface flooding and water-logging is the main aim of most golf course drainage schemes

Prevention of localised flooding and waterlogging is the main aim of most golf course drainage schemes. On a local level this will not affect the larger water catchment drainage hydraulics. However, when implemented on a larger scale, significant changes to flow can occur and the installation of such drainage schemes can cause issues as well as opportunities.

Issues

Increase in downstream water flow due to drainage removing water at a faster rate and concentrating flows in specific areas
Potential increase in downstream flood risk and legal ramifications
Lead Local Flood Authorities generally want to see evidence that any new drainage schemes do not contribute to downstream flood risk and can accommodate high intensity storms + climate change factor
Hydrological surveys will need to be undertaken by a qualified engineer to show that any proposed changes do not increase the risk of flooding elsewhere.

Opportunities

Concentrated water flow allows access to a more constant source of water from a smaller number of locations
Opportunity for water reuse from small to large scale
Incorporation of ecological features into golf course
Planning rules which require local on-site water storage can easily be adapted to store water for use as irrigation water
Large scale catchment alteration can bring benefits to multiple parties if conducted in collaboration with surrounding landowners.