Modernizing Our Pumphouse Infrastructure – St. Marys Golf & Country Club

As the golf season kicks into high gear, we’re excited to share a significant behind-the-scenes upgrade that will have a lasting impact on the quality and playability of our coursethe complete replacement of our pumphouse system. This critical infrastructure project, with a total investment of nearly a quarter-million dollars, was carefully planned and executed to ensure our course remains in pristine condition for seasons to come.

Why the Change?

Over the past two seasons, our maintenance team worked to keep the aged irrigation system functioning. Through a series of patch jobs and parts replacements, we managed to extend its life—until it became clear that continuing to do so was no longer best for the golf course. The aging system showed inconsistent pressure and mechanical failures, causing a number of water-related issues around the course.

Project Timeline & Milestones

Late April to Early May The existing pumphouse structure was disassembled. Motors, turbines and motherboard components were removed. Hydro was disconnected to the pumphouse.

May 5th to May 16th The electricians were onsite to install new services and electrical fittings for the updated system. Vanden Bussche Irrigation delivered and craned in a prefabricated Seacan pumphouse directly onto the well. Helical piles were installed to anchor the new structure securely in place. Main irrigation lines and Z-Pipe connections were completed.

May 20th The system was successfully primed and brought up to regulated pressure, ready to serve the course.




Peak Conditions Ahead

The most significant advancement in the new system is the addition of a variable frequency drive (VFD). Unlike the old setup—where motors would start and stop abruptly, causing damaging pressure surges—this system ensures a constant, controlled pressure throughout the entire irrigation network.

In previous seasons, these pressure spikes (known as "water hammer") were responsible for leaks around the course. The VFD mitigates that risk by allowing pumps and motors to ramp up and down smoothly, preserving pipe integrity and ensuring a more consistent application of water to all areas of the course.

This project marks a major investment not only in infrastructure but in the continued excellence of golfers' playing experience. With the new system now fully operational, we’re poised for more efficient water management and improved turf conditions across the course.

A huge thank you to our partners Forman Electric and Vanden Bussche Irrigation for their expertise and commitment to excellence throughout this project.

We look forward to welcoming thousands of golfers this season, to a greener course and a premium playing experience!

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