I've noticed that there are more fountains, flowerbeds and on-course gardens at clubs that are very metro or urban oriented. I think folks that work and live on the drab streets of the big city are starved for a place to retreat to something peaceful and lovely. They don't join the country clubs just for the golf. They join for the retreat from the urban jungle.
Can anyone say that the more rural the club or golf course, the less likely they have big flowerbed, fountain and on-course gardens? I don't know the answer, these are just my impressions.
As for Jason, yes they seem to have multiple on-course flower gardens with water features. It is lovely. I had the pleasure to play his course last week with him and GCAers. The landscaping didn't come into play anywhere that I observed, and I can hit them pretty far astray. In that course's case, I think it comes down to features that aren't really adversely affecting play or conflicting in playing strategy on a very fine golf course in deed. With no ill effects on play, it would become a purely economic question for me. I would evaluate the merit to have such landscaping based on what extra it costs in dues. A lovely rolling parkland course with nice turf conditions is all the beauty I need, personally. But, going back to the original thought, I'm guessing most of the members there are as interested in their club as a lovely retreat than simply a challenging and enjoyable round of golf.
Jason, at the end of the day, if no golf strategy is lost; what other ammo is there but cost?