Terry,
This was far more than "ragged" bunker edging.
It was deep, difficult rough where reasonable extrication was nearly impossible due to both the height and density of the grass and the inability to take a stance due to its location.
I can't say that I have heard anything about the height of the grass being an issue. The edges uses to be 6-8" of soil. In fact, the surrounds were being maintained at 1-1.5". The look from 2005-2011 looked like Wilson's original bunker work at Pine Tree. (from the 1962 photos) Interesting how none of his other work- NCR, Doral, Ballenisles, Deepdale, Cog Hill, La Casta, Meadow Brook and even West Palm Beach Golf have that sytle bunkers. The courses just listed all have the same bunker style-big bowls, large, wide fingers. MUCH different than what Pine Treeused to have .