OGA-OGCSA Superintendent Spotlight – March 2018

Superintendent Spotlight: Jesse Goodling of Heron Lakes GC

The OGA-OGCSA Superintendent Spotlight is a monthly feature which highlights one of the many outstanding superintendents across Oregon and Southwest Washington. The course superintendent does the yeoman’s work – they’re tabbed with keeping our region’s green grass facilites in top notch shape. Make sure to follow this monthly special to learn a little bit more about these unsung heroes.

This month we shine the spotlight on Jesse Goodling, who has worked for 31 years at Heron Lakes Golf Course in Portland.

Describe your facility in 10 words or less:
A city-owned municipal 36-hole facility, both courses designed by Robert Trent Jones

What is a little-known fact / fun fact about your facility?
Probably the lowest course in elevation in Oregon, protected by levees from the Columbia River

What is your best 18-hole score at your facility?
High

What’s the biggest challenge your facility presents to you as superintendent?
Migratory geese in the winter and bunker maintenance

What led you down the path of becoming a superintendent?
My dad was Superintendent at Broadmoor in Portland, and my brother is at Gearhart, and formerly at Portland Golf Club.

Ducks, Beavers or other?
Beavers

Grapes, hops or milkshake?
Hops and milkshakes

Tiger or Phil?
A fan of both

Jack or Arnie?
A fan of both

Excluding your current facility, what is your favorite golf course?
Rose City

What’s your favorite tool in your tool box?
Irrigation head tool

What’s your favorite major tournament?
The Masters

What is one piece of advice you would give to someone wanting to become a superintendent?
Balance your decisions on careful observations and trusting your experiences, along with listening to others.