Javelinas destroy grass at Seven Canyons Golf Course in scenic Sedona

Seven Canyons Golf Course in Sedona, Arizona, is one of the most scenic layouts in the Grand Canyon State, with views of the iconic red rock bluffs coming from all directions.

This northern Arizona community can also be home to a wild animal called the javelina, which is generally more commonly found in the southern part of the state. The creature sort of looks like a pig and they belong to the peccary family, which is a group of hoofed mammals. Javelinas have long, stiff bristles for hair and sharp tusks. Like all wildlife, it’s best to steer clear of them.

Javelinas are most active at night. They’re also known to dig up turf and dig up some turf they did at Seven Canyons recently.

The assistant superintendent at Seven Canyons posted a video on X showing the destruction the group of javelina — actually called a squadron — inflicted on the Tom Weiskopf design.

Come along with me on my carnage (I mean course) check this morning. What should be one of the most beautiful golf courses in the country is being destroyed by herds of javelina. If anyone has a contact in AZ state govt that can help us find a solution please pass it along. pic.twitter.com/XftywHtVCf

— Em Casey (@emcaseyturf) October 22, 2023

The course, which opened in 2003, tied for 178th on Golfweek’s Best Top 200 residential courses. The facility also has a 20,000-square-foot practice area with two tiers and 20 hitting stations.

As for the javelina, the Arizona State Department of Game and Fish website states that:

• The department will sometimes remove javelina that are causing extensive property damage or have become aggressive toward humans. However, this is a last resort, and measures must be taken to remove attractants to prevent problems from recurring.
• Javelina are classified as a big game species.
• It is unlawful to injure or kill game animals, even if they are causing a problem, unless certain rigorous provisions under the law have been met.
• It is unlawful to trap javelina.

Seven Canyons does have a membership but tee times can be secured if you stay in the Enchantment Resort or rent a townhouse at Seven Canyons.