Adam Miller Q&A

WHEN IT COMES TO SOIL, ADAM MILLER IS

A VISIONARY.

How he came to gain that vision is another story. Adam grew up in the coal region of Pennsylvania, an area known more for its coal mines than golf courses.

With an interest in engineering, he headed off to Virginia Tech and it was there he turned to the business of Agronomy. Here, he tells us more about what, and who led him to his success in the field and how that ties into achieving excellence at Berkeley Hall.

BHC: Your path began and continues to grow with the strength of an important influence. Can you share some details?

ADAM: It’s important in the turf business to find someone who cares about your training and your future. I found that in my mentor Pete Wendt, at both Kinloch Golf Club and Woodmont Golf Club.

Pete challenged me every day of the week, but at the same time cared about me and my family. Currently, he is Director of Golf Courses and Grounds at Congressional Country Club in Bethesda, Maryland, where he just completed a major renovation of the historic Blue Golf Course.

Over the years, Pete’s brought over 40 superintendents to where they are today, going back to his days at Robert Trent Jones Golf Club and Kinloch. I’d say he's developed one of the best superintendent networks in the country, and through Pete, I’ve established connections with most of them, talking to at least one of them each day, along with Pete two to three times a week.

Your surface is only as good as the soil underneath the turf.

– Adam Miller

Director of Agronomy

BHC: Your mantra when it comes to sustainable soil:

ADAM: I believe creating a true sustainable soil is the key to providing the playing conditions expected at Berkeley Hall. Your surface is only as good as the soil underneath the turf.

Creating a sustainable soil allows us to use less nutrients, pesticides, and water. It also allows for more consistency during drought and wet periods.

BHC: On the North and the South Courses?

ADAM: My vision for Berkeley Hall is to balance the soil chemistry and soil porosity on both golf courses regardless if the soil is sand or clay.

BHC: Share a bit about you personally:

ADAM: I met my wife, Heather, on a blind date set up by co-workers in Richmond. She unfortunately went to UVA, (still a point, of goodnatured sports rivalry!) Heather and I enjoy traveling, the outdoors, and a nice bottle of red wine. Here in the Lowcountry, we like to enjoy a glass of wine as the sun sets and appreciate the beauty of the area.

BHC: Forward Vision

ADAM: My background in capital improvement projects and renovation will help strategically plan future projects at Berkeley Hall. I look forward to providing value to our membership while also being a steward of the budget. It always goes back to the soil, and from there, we will build our courses for the future, in the true manner of Berkeley Hall’s impeccable course design.