Brad S,
Thanks for posting the photo. This is the 5th hole at Minikahda, a short par 4 of about 300 yards.The tee shot is blind from a low area over a large ridge that bisects the fairway at about 180 yards. The same ridge bisects the 12th and 4th fairways to the left of this photo. The photo is from the top of the ridge looking down on the green. The hole offers good options--play an iron to the ridge for a good look at the green or blast away--just keep it straight!
The lone tree left of the fairway is all that remains of a forest of trees. Yes they could have taken out more trees like those you mention right of the green but those really aren't in play and they got rid of many many trees that were in play as well as others that opened up sight lines as you suggest.
The bunker in the fairway right is new. They restored many of the original Ross bunkers--don't know if this is one of them or a new idea. The greenside bunkers were restored (and deepened!).
Like many at Minikahda, this green is subtly but elegantly sloped.
All involved in this restoration should be proud of their work. I hope to post more photos on here shortly.
Captain Quirk? Nah, just someone who likes to call out "Captain Anti-Quirk," Matt Ward...
All The Best,