Salem Municipal Golf Course was built in 1919 on a 46 acre tract of land just a few blocks from the center of the city.  The picturesque par 34, nine-hole, 2400 yard course is the perfect place for new golfers of any age to learn the game in a relaxing atmosphere.   

The historic course was recently renovated during the winter as crews return the putting surfaces to their roots.  Since 2001, the greens at the course have consisted of artificial turf and over time they became increasingly slick and treacherous for even the most talented players.

Workers from the city under the direction of Streets and Maintenance Director, Mike Tyler, ripped out the “worn out carpet” and replacing it with the sand greens that were the course’s trademark during its heyday.

The sand greens are made up of a combination of sand and clay and they have a consistency similar to the infield of a baseball diamond.  The third and key ingredient in the mix is the bonding agent that holds the sand and dirt together.  Durasoil is a synthetic, organic, environmentally friendly product that helps the greens remain packed and maintain a consistent roll.

“The thing I’m really seeing is people who haven’t been here in a while returning to the course and enjoying themselves,” says Salem Municipal Director, Chuck Johnston.  “The golfers just love the new putting surfaces and the reviews have been overwhelmingly positive.”

Even with all of the changes, the best news is that the price to play remains the same.  Kids 18 and under can play all day, any day for just $5, while seniors can play as many rounds as they like for just $8 on weekdays.  All other adults are just $9.  On the weekends the rate jumps to $10 for adults, but kids can still hit it as many times as they like for just $5.