The Wild Javelina Takeover: A Golf Course Massacre

Feral Hogs Herd of Javelina Absolutely Massacre Top-25 Arizona Golf Course

The Rise of Golf Course Vandalism

In recent years, golf course vandalism has become an unfortunate trend, with individuals wreaking havoc on these meticulously maintained greens. From dirt bike crews tearing through courses to pre-tournament acts of vandalism, these incidents have garnered attention and concern. However, the destruction caused by humans pales in comparison to the recent incident at Seven Canyons Golf Club in Sedona, Arizona.

The Javelina Menace

The destruction at Seven Canyons was not triggered by human intervention or natural disasters, but rather by a pack of javelinas, small boar-like animals known for their stubbornness and territorial nature. Javelinas are formidable creatures, often fighting amongst themselves over food and defending their territory aggressively. They are known to travel in herds ranging from five to fifteen individuals, and even larger herds of up to fifty have been reported. Astonishingly, javelinas have been known to intimidate cougars, one of the top predators in the animal kingdom.

The Severity of the Damage

The damage inflicted upon Seven Canyons Golf Club is extensive, bordering on catastrophic. The course, ranked 24th best in Arizona by Golf Digest in 2023, has suffered significant destruction, as depicted in a video captured by Superintendent Em Casey. The greenskeeper, Casey, now finds themselves facing the daunting task of restoring the course to its former glory. However, the situation is complicated by the legal protections afforded to javelinas in Arizona.

The Legal Implications

Javelinas are classified as a “big game species” under Arizona law, which prohibits trapping, injuring, or killing them without meeting strict provisions. This leaves the management of Seven Canyons in a difficult position, as they cannot simply hire an exterminator to deal with the javelina problem. The law’s intention is to protect these animals, even in situations where they may cause danger or damage. As a result, an alternative solution must be found to protect the golf course while respecting the legal framework in place.

The Potential Solutions

In the face of this challenge, Seven Canyons must explore creative and humane solutions to mitigate the impact of javelinas on their golf course. One option is to implement non-lethal deterrents that discourage javelinas from entering the premises. This could include physical barriers, scent repellents, or sound devices that deter the animals from approaching the course. Additionally, Seven Canyons could collaborate with wildlife experts to develop strategies for peacefully coexisting with the javelinas, ensuring the protection of both the golf course and the species.

Editorial: Balancing Conservation and Preservation

The case of Seven Canyons Golf Club and the javelinas highlights the delicate balance between conservation efforts and the preservation of human recreational spaces. While it is crucial to protect and preserve wildlife, it is equally vital to safeguard spaces where humans engage in leisure activities. Striking a balance between these two objectives requires thoughtful consideration, collaboration between wildlife experts and property owners, and a willingness to seek alternative solutions that benefit both parties.

Advice for Golf Course Owners

For golf course owners faced with similar challenges, it is imperative to engage in proactive measures to protect their courses from animal disruptions. This includes researching local wildlife laws and regulations, partnering with experts in animal management and conservation, and investing in non-lethal deterrents or preventive measures. Building a comprehensive understanding of the local ecosystem and its inhabitants will foster a more resilient and harmonious environment for both golfers and wildlife.

In conclusion, the havoc wreaked by javelinas at Seven Canyons Golf Club in Sedona serves as a reminder of the intersection between human recreational spaces and the natural world. The restoration of the course and the coexistence of wildlife require careful management, collaboration, and respect for legal and ethical considerations. With thoughtful approaches and proactive measures, golf courses and their natural surroundings can thrive in harmony.