Timber Creek and Sierra Pines Golf Courses

WATERFOWL DROPPINGS

The presence of substantial numbers of droppings from Canada Geese and other waterfowl have caused unique and unusual "Abnormal Ground Conditions" that may interfere with a player's stance or area of intended swing. Since geese and waterfowl are highly mobile, a location or area of the Abnormal Ground Condition (AGC) cannot be defined. Therefore, relief from such AGC is intended to be specific to the situation and is being invoked under Rule 1-4 ("in equity").

A player may take relief, without penalty, from an AGC as follows:

1. If the ball does not lie in or on the AGC, the AGC may be removed. If the ball moves, it must be replaced, and there is no penalty provided the movement of the ball was directly attributable to the removal of the AGC.

   If there is any residue on the ball from its having touched or passed through the AGC, the player may mark, lift, and clean the ball without penalty.

2. If the ball lies in or on the AGC, the ball must be marked before lifting it to clean it or to remove the AGC. The ball is to be replaced as near as possible to the spot where it lay in or near the AGC, but not nearer the hole. Such procedure is to be followed "through the green," in a bunker, and on the putting green. No penalty.

3. On the putting green, players should make reasonable attempts to clear the green of any AGCs that may interfere with a player's "Line of Putt." A player preparing to putt, and finding residue remaining from an AGC that cannot be completely removed from his Line of Putt without roughing or unduly scraping the putting surface, may declare his intent to take relief. (Note: dried stains or discolorations by an AGC are not interference.) Player must mark his ball on the putting surface before lifting it. Nearest point or relief is that new Line of Putt location that is free of interference from the AGC, no nearer the hole. The ball must be placed and marked and the previous mark removed. There is no penalty provided the movement of the ball is directly attributable to the AGC interfering with the original Line of Putt.

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