National rounds played jumped more than 19% in February compared to a year ago, with play up significantly in seven of eight regions for the month before the coronavirus outbreak resulted in the temporary suspension of golf operations at a growing number of U.S. golf facilities in March.

To better understand the effect of the coronavirus in various parts of the country, NGF has expanded its course tracking efforts to periodically evaluate individual states in addition to ongoing national surveys.

To better understand the effect of the coronavirus in various parts of the country, NGF has expanded its course tracking efforts to periodically evaluate individual states in addition to ongoing national surveys.

A growing number of states (and counties) have either instructed residents to stay at home except for non-essential outings or mandated the shutdown of all businesses not deemed essential during a crisis. The rules on what is considered “essential” varies from state-to-state — from governmental services, law enforcement and emergency services to grocery stores, banks, pharmacies, utilities and even golf courses, which in a number of cases are given an exemption.

With more golf courses throughout the U.S. than Starbucks stores and an appeal that that spans generations, the game has shown it can offer valuable physical and mental respite during the coronavirus pandemic with safe operation and proper protocols. That said, the situation is changing continually, and often rapidly.