May 1991: The world’s first floating golf green—at Idaho’s Coeur d’Alene Resort‚ measures approximately 15,000 square feet, weighs more than 5 million pounds, and can be moved to different offshore positions daily. The article discussed the structural strength of the patented flotation system, four separate cables for anchoring the island to the shore, not to mention a “special greens mix developed by the Professional Golfers’ Association were laid to give the putting surface, surrounding rough, sand traps, and planted areas the look of a “normal” golf green.”
Golfers pitch out to the green from a tee on shore, then board a small ferry for a ride to the island. This challenging golf hole is an example of design, engineering, and construction ingenuity.