Birch Hill Country Club was established in February 2024 after acquiring what was historically Ridgewood Country Club formerly owned and operated by Total Golf Management for the past 20+ years.  The property was originally developed as a 9-hole golf course in the late 90’s and was eventually expanded to a gorgeous scenic and picturesque 18-hole golf course set through hilly terrain while often overlooking the mountains around the northern half of Lake Winnipesaukee.  We offer a variety of play including 9 and 18 hole play, weekly Men’s & Ladies League, 9 and dine Couples League, tournaments for both members and the public, a driving range and practice facility for both clinics and lessons, and much more.  Wrap up your round or swing by (no pun intended) and enjoy lunch, dinner, and a drink at our newly renovated Overlook Tavern.

Management

In 2009, I graduated from UNH with my undergraduate degree in accounting and took a job in Wolfeboro at a CPA firm to start my career.   Over the next decade, I focused on my professional career obtaining a Master’s degree in taxation and a law degree from New England Law | Boston while working full time at firms, mainly Deloitte, in mergers & acquisitions primarily supporting large private equity clients.  I grew up an as an athlete but could probably count on both hands how many rounds of golf I had played at that point in my life.  Months after starting my career in Wolfeboro I strolled up to Ridgewood and purchased my first golf membership.  Humbling.  I learned real quick how frustrating and rewarding the game of golf really was and that it was going to take some time to figure out how to be a respectable player in the community.  Little did I know that over the years I would become so emotionally attached to such a unique and amazing place with a foundation of awesome members, staff, crew, and people. 

Having been a part of this community for the last 15 years it has been amazing to see how the golf course has developed.  The entire facility and infrastructure of land and individuals that are part of Birch Hill are unmatched and will only get better with time.  We have a very strategic plan to execute over the next year, two years, five years, and so on.  Right now, we’re continuing to invest in both the clubhouse, the course, and the people to make Birch Hill the premiere semi-private golf course and facility of the Lakes Region.  I’d love to think our plan can be executed overnight, but good things take time.   I have a lot to learn having never managed a golf course or restaurant before but I’m confident that I have an amazing team here to learn from.

The ownership change took place took place in February 2024 and we hit the ground running immediately ripping apart and fully renovating the clubhouse and the Overlook Tavern. The changes are significant and the feedback has been nothing but positive.  My wife, Courtney, is owed the credit for not only coming up with the design, but supporting this entire adventure for us. 

Our goal is to build and and continue to provide a quality experience that leaves everyone wanting to come back.

Overall Updates & Expectations

Year 1 delivered more than we could’ve ever expected.  Greens were prioritized, bridges were rebuilt, bunkers were revamped, drainage improved, aqua driving range expanded, overgrowth cut back, and the list goes on.  

So what does that mean for Year 2?! We’re still prioritizing greens and will continue that trend. This offseason we strategically worked to rebuild the very dilapidated massive bridge leading down Hole 15 and back up to Hole 18s green. This wasn’t just a rebuild, this was an entire reconstruction that resulted in a 100’ long covered bridge that is perfectly nestled as a centerpiece to our amazing course with stunning backdrop views of the mountains. We’re very excited for everyone to see and experience it!

What else?! We bought out the final year of the cart lease for 2025 that we inherited only to bring in a larger BRAND NEW fleet of 2025 golf carts that are ready to go for this season!

We’re still just getting warmed up at Birch Hill.  We’re going to make some mistakes along the way and as much as I wish we could promise perfection, we’ll work on correcting any issues that come up.  Although this place is awesome, it can be better.  Some things we’ll be able to address in due course and others will have to be budgeted for.

If you’re not already, please follow us on both Facebook and Instagram for many real time updates and incentives.  Also, join our mailing list as we convey frequent updates!  Cheers and looking forward to another great season at Birch Hill!

Eddy