Golf Culture

Water Hog

A machine or person used to remove standing water from greens.
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A water hog is (1) a manual or powered turf maintenance machine used to remove standing water from putting greens by squeegeeing or vacuuming surface water, or (2) the person who operates or pushes the equipment. The device may be motorized or non-powered, such as a perforated cylindrical drum rolled across the green to extract excess moisture before further drying methods are applied.

How Golfers Say It

"Get the water hog out there."
"They’re running the water hog on the greens."
"Course is soaked, they need a water hog."

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Origin

The term comes from golf course maintenance practices, combining "water" with "hog" to imply a tool or role that aggressively removes or absorbs excess water from turf surfaces, particularly greens after heavy rain.

Rules & Context

A water hog is used by course maintenance staff to restore playable conditions on greens after rainfall. While not governed by the Rules of Golf, its use directly impacts course setup and playability, especially in preventing standing water that could interfere with putting surfaces and fairness of play.

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Neil's Take

"It’s one of those behind-the-scenes things most players never notice, but without it, rounds would get delayed or canceled fast."

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a water hog used during play?

It is typically used before play or during delays to clear water from greens, not during active play unless conditions require maintenance intervention.

Is a water hog always a machine?

No, the term can also refer to the person operating the equipment used to remove water.

Why is removing water from greens important?

Standing water affects ball roll, damages turf, and makes the course unplayable, so removing it helps restore proper playing conditions.

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