As waste decomposes, it produces methane and carbon dioxide that, if exposed to the surface, would kill the golf course's freshly planted grass, said Petro project manager Kevin Iler. So, gas extraction wells pipe the gas from the landfill to the southern edge of the course, where it is burned off in a bright red flare that sends thick black smoke into the sky. The flare, which motorists can see from nearby roads, is one of many things Petro hopes will catch a golfer's eye. The Phoenix is a links-style course, meaning it has no trees. Their roots would break the clay seal that protects the landfill.
Players do have a scenic view of the downtown skyline, about four miles north.
The course has standard hazards such as bunkers and ponds. The operators expect it to be competitive because it is a 10-minute drive from downtown offices and is so unusual. People are going to want to look at it. Charlie Castle, golf director at the nearby Grovebrook Golf Club, said he expects competition from the Phoenix at first but figures to keep his regulars. Players used to a traditional golf course will have trouble adjusting to the Phoenix's wide-open layout, Mr. Castle said.