We assembled our development team from the most talented professionals we could find. We began the project by hiring Richard Phelps Sr. (Dick) to create a golf masterpiece in Elephant Butte, New Mexico. We advised Dick that we wanted a course that anyone could play and have fun with the caveat, however, that top professionals would find it challenging. Also, we wanted a course that would be a compliment to Turtleback Mountain Resort. Hence our unique layout with up to 7 teeing grounds per hole, beach bunkers and challenging putting surfaces was born. We continued our journey by asking Guy Wimberly to work with Dick to make playing at Sierra de Rio a "memorable experience." Next we chose Golf Works Inc.. a prominent golf course construction company, from Austin, TX, to build the course. As we moved forward we realized we had some unusual challenges with wetlands and numerous arroyos to traverse. As a result we sought out Sam Senn and Bascor Environmental Inc. to assist us with those issues, including civil engineering. As the plan began to materialize we knew we had something special and we wanted to compliment it with an exciting circa 1900 New Mexico Clubhouse. Ross Small and Janine Hypolite from Architects Studios in Albuquerque, NM, answered our call for help and they have designed a "memorable" clubhouse to go with our "memorable" golf and dining experience. As we became more familiar with our 1,000 plus acre valley we realized we must make every effort to be as non-threatening to the land, the lakes, and the wildlife as possible. This desire to protect our environment led us to seek out Lonnie Musgrove of Organic Growing Systems, Inc., and Brian Wimberly, naturalist. Lonnie's experience in using 100% organic fertilizers to grow grasses and crops will allow us to be the first 100% organically grown golf course in New Mexico. Brian has created plan whereby we can peacefully coexist with the abundant wildlife which lives in and around Turtleback Mountain Resort and our golf course. Our team is outstanding, each chosen for their special ability and talent. The result, Sierra del Rio Golf, will appeal to your spirit of adventure and will challenge your golfing skills for years to come.