Strong Leadership, Sound Agronomy Fuel Wisconsin Golf Course

Brian Bonlender has found a great formula for running a successful golf course. As longtime superintendent at the historic West Bend Country Club in Wisconsin, he overseas an experienced staff and keeps the course in great shape through a strong nutrition program of Redox TurfRx products.

“The healthier the plant, the easier your job becomes,” he said. “It’s all about health. It’s all keeping the best conditions possible on a daily basis. It’s consistency.”

Brian began at an entry level job at the country club 25 years ago. Since the early days, he graduated with a horticultural degree and has risen to the superintendent’s role.  His tenure, tenacity, and continual tinkering to provide the best nutrition to his turfgrass have served West Bend well. 

Keeping the course in great shape takes careful planning, as the country club is within 30 miles of Lake Michigan, so temperatures can stay low for much of the year. 

“The joke is ‘keep your winter jacket in your car until the Fourth of July, take it out, hang it up, and on the fifth put it back in’,” he remarked. “We’ve seen snow in May. We’ve seen 85 degrees in May. It really keeps you on your toes.”