CARRABASSETT VALLEY, Maine – Sugarloaf and the Town of Carrabassett Valley celebrated a groundbreaking ceremony today for a new $1.7 million irrigation system, which will be installed at the Sugarloaf Golf Club this summer.

Earlier this spring, residents of Carrabassett Valley voted overwhelmingly in support of the new system, which will replace the existing irrigation infrastructure. The Sugarloaf Golf Club is owned by the Town of Carrabassett Valley, and operated by Sugarloaf.

The current infrastructure (which has an estimated life expectancy of 25 years) was installed 27 years ago when the course was built, and was in sever need of replacement, according to Sugarloaf Superintendant Bob Bruce.

“The old system was antiquated and beginning to fail,” Bruce said. “With the new irrigation system, we will be able to pinpoint the exact areas that need water, and avoid over-watering areas that don’t need as much. This will end up saving water and electricity costs, and will be much better for the course in the long run.”

Work on the new irrigation system will begin this week, and will continue, one hole at a time, until all 18 holes are completed. The project is not expected to significantly impact play at the course, as only one hole will be closed to construction at a time.

In attendance at today’s event were representatives from Sugarloaf, the Town of Carrabassett Valley, and Environmental Solutions, the company contracted to install the new system. Also in attendance was noted golf course consultant Ross Forbes, who has been hired to assist in the design and implementation of the project.

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About Sugarloaf– Located in Carrabassett Valley, ME, Sugarloaf is largest ski area in the East, and is home to the only lift-serviced above treeline skiing and riding in the East. and the number one golf course in Maine, according to Golf Digest. Sugarloaf is a member of the Boyne Resorts family of resorts and attractions. Follow: www.sugarloaf.com, www.facebook.com/sugarloaf, and http://twitter.com/sugarloafmaine.