Chambers Bay may be my favorite example of enhancement reclamation (to date) and it's not hard to see why. This project is the very definition of enhancement reclamation and it's a wonderful example of how even projects of this scale can be driven by an individual with a vision; a local "champion," if you will.
Historically, Chambers Bay used to b the Steilacoom Pit (seen below, circa 1949) was largely responsible for building the cities of Tacoma and Seattle from roads, to building foundations, to bridges. Over 250 million tons of sand and gravel were removed from the pit.
Photo credit: Richards Studio Collection, courtesy of the Tacoma Public Library
Today The historic Steilacoom Pit is almost unrecognizable as a gravel pit today- even to the experienced eye.
Chambers Bay is a world-renowned golf course and is a great example of enhancement reclamation, which is clearly seen in the before and after photos. The massive pit was re-envisioned by a local champion who worked with the local community and government to make his vision a reality. It brought new life to the area, the pit itself, and greatly boosted the economy- and will for years to come.
Photo credit: Dean J. Koepfler, News Tribune staff photographer
What makes it so special?
Renowned championship golf course (hosted 2015 US Open)
Local champion's vision became reality
Massive scale
Beautiful views
Historic "nod" to mining heritage on site
Plan a Pit Stop! For more information about Chambers Bay history (including the geology and interesting information about the historic glaciology of the region that formed the sand and gravel deposit itself) see this great news article from The News Tribune.
To visit Chambers Bay be sure to book a tee time well in advance if you plan on playing the course. Check out the Chambers Bay website here. I've never played a round on this course, but I've walked around the area, looked out on the bay, and had lunch at the restaurant there- all of which I recommend even if you're not a golfer!