The Courses
Directions
What are Maintenance Days?
Why replace divots, repair ball marks and rake bunkers?
Golf Carts and Policies?
Frost Delay
Aerification - Why? Topdress - Why?

Programs
Does Bergen County have any Tournaments?
How do I get a GHIN handicap?
Do you have a junior golf program?
Why do we have Outings? Can I have an Outing?
Does Bergen County provide adult lessons?

Misc.
Can I get a Disability Golf Card?
Can I get a Disability Golf Cart Flag?
Do the golf courses take credit cards?
Weather and reimbursements?

How do I make a Tee Time?
To make a phone reservation, you must use a push button phone that generates a touch-tone signal. Be sure your phone is set on tone. Please listen carefully to all of the prompts.

1. On your touch-tone phone, dial the tee time reservation system at 201-336-7277.
2. Press 1 to make a reservation
3. Bergen County Golf Card holders:
a) Enter your 9 digit Golfer ID number (SS# or Assigned Access #.
b) Or: Enter your Golfer ID # from your card, wait for prompt, then enter your 4-digit PIN number which you chose when the card was issued.
4. The service will recite the next 3 or 7 days and dates depending on your Bergen County Golf Card status. Press the number of your choice.
5. Enter the number of players by pressing 1, 2, 3 or 4.
6. Enter the time of day you wish to play, essentially between 6:30 am and 4:59 pm depending on availability and time of year. For example: for 8 am enter 800, for 1 pm enter 100. 600 and 700 will be considered as 6 am and 7 am, respectively.
7. The service will recite the two closest times available based on your request. Reserve the tee time by pressing 1, or if you would like the second time press 2.
8. The service will indicate that your tee time has been reserved and will give you a confirmation number.
9. Report to the golf course at least 30 minutes prior to your tee off time.

When you arrive at the golf course, a cashier will scan your card (or enter your confirmation number) and will request payment at that time. The cashier will also scan the ID card of anyone else in your group who has one. Top

How do I cancel/modify a Tee Time?
Please listen carefully to all the prompts.

1. Dial the tee time reservation system at (201) 336-7277.
2. Press 2 to cancel or modify your tee time.
3. Bergen County Golf Card holders:
a) Enter your 9 digit Golfer ID number (SS# or Assigned Access #.
b) Or: Enter your Golfer ID # from your card, wait for prompt, then enter your 4-digit PIN number which you chose when the card was issued.
4. The service will recite the tee time(s) you have reserved. To cancel or modify your tee time, press 1. The service will say, "Press 1 to cancel your reservation, or press 2 to modify your reservation, or press 3 to leave your reservation unchanged." Note: If you choose to modify your reservation the service will prompt you to enter the new number of players in your group. To change the time of your reservation or to choose a different golf course, please cancel your reservation and create a new one. Top

Why is it so difficult to get an early Tee Time?
It is difficult to obtain a tee time, especially one in prime time (7:00AM-10:00AM) because of the demand. There are 226 available tee times (904 golfers) through the automated system. This is not the actual number of golfers each day because of walk-on and twilight times, but only 226 tee times can be secured for a given weekday.

Summary of available weekday Tee Times (Weekends add 4 ea. Location)
Darlington 54
Orchard Hills 32
Overpeck 54
Rockleigh R&W 54
Rockleigh Blue 32
Valley Brook 54
Total available tee times (foursomes) 226

In the third week of July 1999 we asked Bell Atlantic to do a call study tracking the amount of calls made to the number (201-336-7277) during the hours of 7:00PM-8:00PM. On Tuesday of that week 15,279 calls were made and 14,762 busy signals were generated. On Sunday evening 37,021 were made and 36,421 received busy signals. As you can see the demand far exceeds the supply of tee times. Top

Back Nine Play?
Play on the back nine at Darlington, Overpeck and Rockleigh golf courses is available each morning. This opportunity is limited to seven groups during the first hour and ten minutes of play. Back nine play at Rockleigh will usually be played on the Blue course, but this practice is subject to change. Back nine play may be suspended without prior notice. Golfers can call the course each morning to determine the status of back nine play. There is no back nine play available on the maintenance day. Top

What is a "No Show" and how do I pay it?
A "no show" is defined as anyone who fails to cancel or appear for a reserved tee time, anyone who fails to modify a reserved tee time and arrives at the course with fewer than the number of players reserved or anyone not checking in with the cashier 30 minutes before the reserved time.

Golfers have the opportunity to cancel or modify reserved times without penalty until 10 PM 2 days before the reservation date. The telephone number for reservations and cancellations/modifications is 201-336-7277. If a cancellation or modification is not made by the 10 PM deadline, there will be a charge of $5 per reservation assessed and future access to the automated tee time system will be denied until all penalty fees are paid. The "no show" fee for a registered non-resident is $15 per reservation.

These penalty fees are in place to encourage the cancellation of reservations in a timely manner. It is a common courtesy to cancel unwanted times as soon as possible. Reservations are available up until midnight the night before, however, any reservation made after 10 pm 2 days prior cannot be cancelled without penalty. Cancellations are not accepted on the day of play. Golfers should take into consideration the weather forecast prior making a reservation to play. Poor weather does not release a golfer from their obligation to honor the reservation. If the golf course is closed due to weather, all reservations are cancelled without penalty. If a golf course is open but does not allow carts due to weather conditions, the golfer must call the clubhouse to verbally request the cancellation due to lack of carts; otherwise that reservation stands. A golfer who fails to appear at the cashier window 30 minutes prior to the reserved tee time can be considered a "no show" and the tee time offered to someone on the stand by board.

No show fees may be paid at any golf course or at the Golf Administration Office in Hackensack. Top

Why Holiday Rates?
Holiday rates are equal to weekend rates. Golfers who normally play Monday through Friday are not usually inclined to pay the higher rate charged on the weekend. When a holiday falls on a weekday we create an additional "weekend" day to give the golfers who are restricted to weekend play the added opportunity to secure a tee time. Top

Nine Hole Rate?
This rate provides a discount for those seeking to play only nine holes. It is available at the nine hole courses (Orchard Hills and Rockleigh Blue).
If a golfer with a nine-hole reservation opts to play a second nine holes of golf, it usually means they will have to wait for the next available nine-hole slot. Therefore, it is recommended that if somebody intends to play eighteen holes, they should make an eighteen-hole reservation. Eighteen hole rates are available at all courses provided you make an eighteen-hole reservation. Top

Twilight Rate vs. Nine Hole Rate?
The twilight rate is a discounted eighteen-hole rate available at all courses at the end of the day, (times vary with seasons.) When the twilight rate is in effect there is no nine hole rate available. The twilight rate affords the opportunity to play as many holes as possible before the golf course closes for the night.

Anyone with a reservation for nine holes scheduled after twilight will be required to pay the eighteen-hole twilight discount rate and will be able to play as many holes beyond the nine reserved as can be accomplished until the course closes. When renting a motorized golf cart at twilight, please be aware of the cart's expected return time at that particular golf course. Top

What are Maintenance Days?
Each of the four County golf facilities will close nine holes one day per week for maintenance. On these days only nine holes will be opened for public play. The Superintendent/Assistant Superintendent will determine which nine holes will be closed for the maintenance. The schedule is as follows:

Monday Orchard Hills (This nine hole course is closed on Mondays)
Tuesday Darlington
Wednesday Overpeck
Thursday Rockleigh

Reservations on the Blue Nine at Rockleigh are not accepted on Thursdays. The Superintendent will determine which nine will be closed for maintenance, the two remaining nines will be the 18-hole course for that day. Top

Why replace divots, repair ball marks and rake bunkers?
The Bergen County Department of Parks has made a concerted effort to keep the courses in the best possible condition. Golfers have a responsibility to assist this effort. Please leave the course in better condition than you found it by replacing divots, repairing ball marks and raking bunkers. These courtesies are part of the etiquette of the game and ensure that the golfers who follow you have the same level playing surface you had when you started your round.

The County golf courses ask that you simply replace your divot in the same direction that it came out and firmly tamp it down with your foot. Unrepaired ball marks take several weeks to properly heal, leaving behind uneven surfaces. Sand bunkers are enough of a hazard without the bad lies caused by an unraked surface. Try to enter and exit the bunker from the point that's closest to your ball and most level to the adjacent playing surface. Always rake immediately after your sand shot. Alternate pushing and pulling toward you with the rake without displacing too much sand. The rake should then be placed outside the bunker, lying flat on the ground and pointed in the direction to the likely flight of the ball. If you need instructions on how to repair a divot or ball mark, please refer to How to Fix a Divot/Ball Mark? or ask the Starter for a demonstration.

Please keep all trash in the golf cart for easy disposal at the receptacles located near each tee or at the clubhouse at the conclusion of each nine.Top

Golf Carts and Policies?
Every golfer who rents a cart must be at least 17 years of age and have a valid driver's license. All players renting a golf cart must leave a Bergen County Golf Card or driver's license in order to receive a key. The register receipt provided must be available for inspection upon request of golf course staff at all times. The golfer is liable for any damage to or bodily harm caused by their cart. When a cart is returned it will be checked for damage and identification will be returned with receipt of key. If a golfer damages a cart, a report will be filled out and submitted to the Golf Administration Office. Golfers renting a motorized golf cart must adhere to the daily directive concerning cart regulations. Carts must always stay on paths around tees and greens. If no other directive posted, then the 90 degree rule is in effect. Under this rule, golf carts must be kept in the rough or on existing cart paths and cross the fairways only at a right angle. Keep all golf carts 30 feet (or the designated spacing for that day) from greens and tees. Rangers and Starters will monitor cart usage. Players who disregard golf cart rules may be required to leave the golf course.

Golf carts may be rented up until the close of the cashier window, which is one and one-half hours before sunset. However, there is no guarantee that a golfer will complete his round before the cart must be returned. All carts are due back to the clubhouse by one-half hour before sunset. Please determine time of return when picking up the cart. Top

Frost Delay?
Frost is essentially frozen dew. It can form when the temperature is near or below the freezing point. The ice crystals that form on the outside of the plant can harden or even freeze the cell structure of the plant. When frosted, the plant cells become brittle and are easily crushed. If damaged, the plant loses its ability to function normally. Greens are fragile and when stressed they are vulnerable to disease and weed infestation. Walking on frost-covered grass causes the leaf blades to break and cells rupture. The result is that the grass turns brown and eventually dies. The damage isn't just unsightly - putting quality will also be reduced until repairs are made. These repairs are expensive and in some cases, the green may have to be kept out of play for days or weeks until new turf grass is established. A short delay while the frost melts can preserve the quality of the greens and prevent needless repairs. Golf course managers do not like frost delays any more than golfers because the frost prevents them from undertaking daily maintenance activities.

When a frost delay is in effect, golfers are not permitted on the course, putting green or any grassed area. After any delay, the tee sheet will be followed in sequence, excluding walk on times. The amount of tee times the golf course falls behind is generally how long it will take to make up the time. All walk on times will be eliminated until the reserved times are back on schedule. Reserved golfers have preference over golfers on the Standby Board. If a golfer cannot make their reserved time due to the time delay, he or she will not be charged for the reservation, nor will they be deactivated from the tee time system. Top

Aerification - Why? Topdress - Why?
Aerification is a mechanical process that creates more air space in the soil and promotes deeper rooting. The condition of the green or fairway has a lot to do with what goes on below the surface. In order to keep the grass growing you have to have deep, healthy roots. Over time, the soil becomes compacted and the air pockets are crushed, depriving the roots of essential oxygen. Without oxygen, the grass plants will wither and die. Good roots demand oxygen. The process of aerification is done by removing a hole or plug and filling it with sand to help the soil retain air space and make it easier for the roots to grow downward. Aerification is a short-term disruption that has long-term benefits. Without those little "holes" the greens would die.

Topdressing is a maintenance practice of spreading sand or a prepared mixture of clay, silt, sand and organic matter over a putting green to level the surface. It improves drainage, controls thatch and maintains the biological balance. Top

Does Bergen County have any Tournaments?
The Bergen County Department of Parks currently offers the following tournaments:

Senior Championship in June
Parent & Child in July
Ladies Classic in July
BC Amateur Men's Qualifiers in August, BC Amateur Men's Final in September, and the BC Amateur Senior and Ladies Division in September
Four Ball in October

Applications are available at all County golf courses, on our web site or by calling the Golf Administration Office at 201-336-7259.

How do I get a GHIN handicap?
The Department of Parks, in cooperation with NJSGA, offers the USGA GHIN Handicap Program. GHIN computers are available at all four courses. Interested individuals can subscribe to the service for a nominal fee and receive handicap updates every two weeks. GHIN Application forms are available at all County golf courses or by calling the Golf Administration Office at 201-336-7259. Top

Does the County have a Junior golf program?
See The Pioneer Tour. Top

Why do we have Outings? Can I have an Outing?
Outings provide a fund raising opportunity to non-profit organizations raising money to benefit Bergen County residents. Outings are either a tee time (minimum of 60 players) or a shot gun (minimum of 100 players) format on Mondays only at any of our four County golf courses. Top

Does Bergen County provide adult lessons?
The Department of Parks does not provide adult lessons; however, there are private concessions at two of our County golf courses that offer adult lessons.

Darlington Golf Center, 201-818-0777 - Professional, Bill Nash
Rockleigh Pro Shop, 201-768-6640 - Professional, Dennis Consalvo Top

Can I get a Disability Golf Card?
If a golfer can show proof that he/she is fully disabled according to our guidelines, they will be extended a discount on their greens fee. This discount is to offset those persons receiving disability benefits and unable to work due to their disabilities. See Disability Card for more information. Top

Can I get a Disability Golf Cart Flag?
To accommodate the physically challenged, the golf courses have Disability Flags that attach to the motorized golf cart and designate that a golf cart has extra leeway on the course, with respect to the posted cart rule. These flags are available, weather conditions permitting and require Legal Handicap Identification (Federal, State or Local) or a doctor's prescription or note dated for the current golf season. Handicap golfers will be instructed as to the special conditions that apply to the use of a cart bearing a Disability Flag for that day. This would include the 90-degree rule, driving the cart within 30 feet of the greens and that the Handicap Flag is for use by the handicap person only. The Disability Flag basically allows for a little leniency with respect to the posted golf cart rules, however, it in no way allows for the total disregard of the Golf Cart Policy. Top

Do the golf courses take credit cards?
At the present time all five County golf courses accept cash or Visa and MasterCard credit cards. They do not accept other types of credit cards, any debit cards or checks. Top

Weather and reimbursements?
The Bergen County golf courses do not necessarily close during inclement weather. At the discretion of management, a golf course may be closed, play may be suspended or the opening may be delayed due to dangerous weather or unplayable conditions. During severe weather, such as thunderstorms, greens fees are no longer sold and players are not permitted to tee off. At any time, play may be temporarily suspended due to weather conditions and players may be asked to stop play and wait for conditions to improve. When play is resumed, golfers will be allowed to return to where they stopped or to where positioned by the golf course staff.