In this month’s Superintendent Spotlight we feature Richard Jensen who’s been with Crooked River Ranch Golf Course for the last 20 years.

Describe your facility in 10 words or less:
Fun course for all with abundant wildlife and scenic views.

What is a little-known fact / fun fact about your facility?
Bob McPhearson, developer of our HOA, used to use #1 fairway as a runway for his personal airplane.

What’s your favorite hole at your facility?
Hole No. 5 – a fun risk / reward hole.

What’s the biggest challenge your facility presents to you as superintendent?
Available seasonal labor.

You are interning for a different position at your facility (for a day), what would that role be?
The beverage cart driver.

Do you have a superintendent dog?
After 11 years of service, we lost our avian control specialist, Jake, to cancer in late 2018. We have not yet replaced him.

Favorite all-time professional golfer?
Fred Couples

Who joins you in a dream foursome?
John Wayne, Fred Couples, Arnold Palmer, my late brother Scott.

What’s your favorite tool in your tool box?
Field Scout TDR 300

What’s your all-time favorite movie?
The Last of the Mohicans

Country, Rock or other?
All three

What led you down the path of becoming a superintendent?
Worked on a grounds crew my junior and senior years in high school, developed a love for the industry… the rest is history.

What’s the biggest change that has occurred while you’ve been in the industry?
Computerized irrigation systems

What would you invent right now to make your professional life easier?
A shock collar for golfers that gives them a little reminder jolt when they’re not following proper course etiquette.

What’s the most interesting thing you’ve witnessed or done as a superintendent?
A golden eagle harassing two coyotes on our 13th hole.

What is one piece of advice you would give to someone wanting to become a superintendent?
Be very sure you have the work ethic needed to succeed and grow some thick skin.