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Straight-line winds topple more than 100 trees at Brackendale golf property; county estimates cleanup if contracted around $200,000
Summary
A straight-line wind event damaged significant tree cover at Brackendale and other courses; county crews and parks staff cleared urgent hazards, insurance adjuster engagement is pending and county may fund multi-month cleanup if insurer denies claim.
County officials described extensive tree damage after a straight-line wind event at Brackendale and nearby golf properties that downed more than 100 trees and temporarily closed portions of a course.
Golf-management staff reported the storm struck around 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 15. The worst damage affected the front nine of the Loose Cruise Course, which remained closed while crews removed large debris. Staff said they mobilized county parks crews and other departments for immediate hazard removal; by Friday and the next day they had returned 36 holes to play with limited closures.
The golf superintendent and grounds crews documented damage with photographs and hours/equipment logs. Staff told the board they met with the county’s insurance carrier to determine whether a claim is appropriate; an adjuster was expected to visit the site. Staff estimated that contracting all tree cleanup could cost about $200,000, though the county believes it can perform the work in-house over time if insurance does not cover it.
Staff emphasized safety during cleanup and said few trees, if any, affected course play strategy in the long term. They said removed trees were largely perimeter or invasive species and that new strategic plantings are planned.
Ending: County staff said they will continue tracking costs and photos, pursue an insurance adjuster visit and either contract cleanup if covered or undertake multi-month in-house removal if not.
