Peter,
Thanks for the questions.
I do think mom and pops are in trouble. I know for a fact that, at least here in West Michigan, the numbers of golfers and the numbers of rounds are down considerably from 10-15 years ago. All I can do is speculate as to why, but I believe it's a multi-faceted issue. Kids have many more opportunities at school, sports and otherwise. Dads are much more involved with their families, which I view as a good thing. There are many other opportunities to recreate as a family at much less cost than golf. Kids have been raised on game sets hooked to TV's, and golf doesn't hold their attention....in general.
Urban sprawl is a factor for the disappearing golf courses. The amount of effort to make any profit from golf these days is enormous compared to the days of good golf growth. All costs associated with golf have skyrocketed, yet the opportunity to raise greens fees is restricted due to many of the factors above. So, many owners who might otherwise try to continue, sell out. It saddens me, but I understand....I really, really understand.
My concern is the Big Picture...when we close the doors on the courses that people learn to golf, who will be the next wave of members at the mid and upper end clubs? Is golf just going through a "market adjustment"? If the U.S. has, say, 15,000 courses, is the "right" number going to end up at 8,000 courses? I don't have that answer.
I think mom and pops are the beginning though, because it is the most disposable of all golf. If there's something else to do, or the weather isn't just right, or the regulars at the mom and pops are getting hit hard with higher costs of living...they bail on the mom and pop golf. At least, that's what I'm seeing.
Maybe you're right Peter. Maybe there isn't much anyone can do. But I'd sure like to think there's some hope.
Joe