One month ago, at 5 p.m. Oct. 19, it was 70 degrees outside in Cloquet. Just about perfect outdoor weather. Our region was very fortunate to have an elongated golf season in 2021 — just ask golfers!

Even with severe drought conditions this summer, Carlton County courses persevered and, in many cases, thrived.

“Our club had over 200 days of golf this year and over 21,000 rounds played,” said Bill Manahan, Cloquet Country Club pro/manager, adding that the course was open April 10 to Oct. 27 this year. “By comparison, we had 18,000 rounds last year, which was a good year.”

Manahan hypothesized th...