Water Conservation in Golf Courses

Water is one of our most valuable resources, especially here in the desert. As conversations about conservation continue to grow, golf courses are leading the way in sustainable management. After all, a course spans acres of green turf in places where water can feel scarce.

The reality is that modern golf course management has made incredible strides in water conservation. Across the country, superintendents are embracing advanced technologies and eco-friendly practices that reduce consumption while keeping courses healthy and playable.

From planting drought-tolerant turf to rethinking landscaping and introducing reclaimed water sources, many clubs are reimagining their operations. The biggest game-changer, though, has been the arrival of smart irrigation technology for golf courses that allows precise, real-time control of water delivery.

Golf Course Renovation with Water Conservation in Mind

At The Springs, our $16 million golf course renovation places water efficiency front and center. Roughly two-thirds of the project is dedicated to irrigation—an investment that ensures our course will be not only beautiful and playable, but also environmentally responsible for decades to come.

The centerpiece of this effort is the Rain Bird Integrated Control (IC) System, a state-of-the-art irrigation solution that puts unmatched precision in our team’s hands. Founded in California in 1933, Rain Bird has long been a leader in golf course irrigation systems, and their IC technology represents the gold standard in smart watering.

Rain Bird IC System: Smart Irrigation Technology for Golf Courses

Each sprinkler on the course can be individually programmed based on:

• Time – running for a set number of minutes
• Precipitation rate – applying a targeted amount of water
• Evapotranspiration rate – adjusting to real-time environmental conditions
• Rotation – controlling the arc and speed of water delivery

This flexibility allows our maintenance team to fine-tune irrigation across different areas of turf, ensuring every square foot receives exactly what it needs—no more, no less.

Smarter, Faster, and More Reliable

Beyond water delivery, the Rain Bird IC system is packed with smart features that directly support efficiency and sustainability:

• Live data from on-course sensors and flow meters
• Continuous monitoring of usage across both the golf course and HOA
• Early detection of electrical issues before they cause turf damage
• Remote diagnostics with a single click from the central computer

From a hardware perspective, the system is built for both performance and durability:

• Low-voltage design: all field equipment runs at 50 volts or less
• Cleaner look: subsurface wiring eliminates outdated satellite boxes
• Simplified infrastructure: 90% less wiring than traditional systems
• Longevity: HDPE piping rated for 50 years—twice as long as standard PVC

A Long-Term Commitment to Water Efficiency

This isn’t just about saving water today. With a 20–25-year operational lifespan, the Rain Bird IC system ensures The Springs will continue to be a leader in golf course water efficiency and sustainable golf course management well into the future. The investment means reduced maintenance costs, healthier turf, and a course that remains resilient even in challenging climates.

Water conservation in golf courses is no longer optional—it’s essential. And at The Springs, we’re proud to take a proactive approach, blending world-class playability with responsible stewardship of our most precious resource.

From cutting-edge irrigation to long-term sustainability, The Springs is proud to lead the way in water conservation. Follow our $16 million renovation project—and if you’d like to experience the future of golf in Rancho Mirage, explore membership at The Springs.