damaged hole

Question
Eddie,
I understand the :lost ball" - thanks
just to clarify your answer re the above. Are you saying that it can be fixed prior to putting out - that it's not improving your line of putt? I know that you can brush anything away from the hole that's not fixed/growing but didn't think you could actually repair until you have holed out.
(2) My friend lost semifinal on the 18th last week - he was just off the green but decided to putt and brushed/flicked a small ant hill - his opponent claimed the hole. I didn't think that was classed as attached and therefore could be done or is that the same as sand & a no-no - but you can move "dung" - what's the difference.

Answer
Hi Marie:

Clarification:  Rule 16-1, C states:

You can fix an old "hole plug" or any mark caused by the impact of a ball.  

Then it specifically says:  Any other damage to the putting green must not be repaired if it might assist the player in his subsequent play of the hole.  

Otherwise, penalty of one stroke.  

A "loose impediment" also includes worms or insects and the casts or heaps made by them.  I would say no penalty.  If it were a fire ant hill, then he would have been able to drop within one club length to take relief, no penalty.  It is not the same as sand, because it's not sand.  The question is, do you consider an ant an insect?  I would and therefore, the casts and heaps made by them fits this description, and therefore is considered a loose impediment.  

Eddie Kilthau
PGA Member