Some Michigan golf courses struggle after building boom

DETROIT (AP) — Some Michigan golf courses are struggling or being forced to close amid what industry officials describe as an oversaturation of courses.

The Detroit Free Press reports  that Michigan, like other parts of the country, experienced a course-building boom during the 1990s and into the 2000s.

The National Golf Foundation says the state number of courses peaked in Michigan in the early 2000s, with more than 970. By early 2015, that number was 790.

In response, some golf clubs in Michigan have lowered their initiation fees or run promotions to bring in members. And younger golfers are among those being sought as members.

Michigan golf course architect Raymond Hearn says he thinks the state could lose another 30 or so courses each year for the next two to three years.