OGDEN — An unusually mild December is giving Utah golfers extra time on the green, even as many of them say they’d rather see snow.

With 93% of the state in drought, according to the Utah Division of Water Resources, the lack of snowfall is raising concerns. But at Ogden City’s Mount Ogden Golf Course, players are taking advantage of the rare opportunity to tee off in late December.

Todd Brenkman is the PGA Professional and Golf Director at Ogden City’s Mount Ogden Golf Course. (Mike Anderson KSL TV)

“It’s a rare occasion that we play golf on this property in December,” said Todd Brenkman, PGA professional and director of golf at the course. “We’ve had years where we may be open a day or two, but I can’t ever remember a time in my career where we’re playing this many days in a row, and in the 50s.”

Related: Utah snowpack at 55% of normal after unseasonable start to December

Golfers like Tony Hernandez say they’re making the most of the warm weather.

“I had the day off and I was sitting around the house, I said, ‘well, you know, it’s pretty warm outside, I’m going to go golfing,’” Hernandez said. Still, he added, “I would like the snow, yes. A White Christmas would be very nice.”

Tony Hernandez prepares to golf with some friends at Mount Ogden Golf Course Friday. (Mike Anderson KSL TV)

The extended season is fueling an ongoing golf boom that began during the pandemic, Brenkman said. “It’s just really been fun to watch what’s been happening all across the state of Utah and nationally with the game, because there was a while when it was a little touch and go and facilities were closing down.”

Despite the surge in play, water remains a critical concern for courses and communities alike. “We definitely need it,” Brenkman said. “We rely on water to water these golf courses and make them enjoyable and playable.”

Golfers enjoy the warm weather at Mount Ogden Golf Course Friday. (Mike Anderson KSL TV)

Once snow does arrive, Mount Ogden plans to groom cross-country ski trails on the course — a reminder that winter sports enthusiasts are still waiting for their turn.

 

This story was adapted from a TV broadcast script using artificial intelligence. Every story, including those adapted with AI, is reviewed by a human editor before publication to ensure that KSL’s editorial standards are upheld.