June 18, 2009 (Boulder, CO) – Golf has been hit hard by the economic downturn – players and rounds are down, real estate sales have fallen, and the number of new golf courses is offset by the number of course closures. Nordic Group International and SE GROUP, resort planning firms with complementary skills, see winter operations – from cross-country skiing to tubing – as a way to bring financial stability to a lot of troubled golf courses.

Nordic Group International (NGI) Principal Jonathan Wiesel has written an article published in the June issue of Golf Course Management, covering the pros and cons of winter operations. Based on two dozen interviews plus personal familiarity with dozens of courses that run in winter, he concluded that the most important benefits are not just income but also staff retention, community service, and enhanced real estate values.

Wiesel says, “Golf courses and their communities across the U.S. and Canada can benefit from winter in a lot of different ways. In turn, financially viable golf course operations can provide a major boost to the popularity of winter recreation.” He adds, “The primary thing is that courses either have consistent snow or have the temperatures where they can make snow.”

“We’re excited about this opportunity to create a win-win situation for golf course operators and winter recreation enthusiasts,” says SE GROUP principal Chris Cushing. “And we’re thrilled to formalize an alliance that allows our companies to help golf resorts extend their operating season and revenue generation.”

The NGI/SE GROUP team covers all the bases to maximize golf course profits, including feasibility studies, financial modeling, facility design, marketing expertise – even snowmaking and lighting to guarantee full seasons, long revenue-generating days, and an optimal visitor experience.