The Pittorino family built golf courses throughout New England before deciding in 1991 to develop their own 154-acre parcel of land in Stow for golfers of all levels. Open since 1998, Wedgewood Pines Country Club features an 18-hole championship golf course, driving range, pro shop, locker rooms with sauna and steam rooms, an aquatics facility, the 19th Hole restaurant, multiple function and conference rooms, an outdoor patio, and a main ballroom that can accommodate 250 guests.

The private golf course is a family affair that includes patriarch Phil Pittorino; his children, Joe Pittorino and Stacey Page; and their families. Joe Pittorino, a co-owner along with his father and sister, had this to say:

Q. What is the current state of the golf industry?

A. It’s getting better. Courses were popping up everywhere when golf was hot in the 1980s and 1990s, but since the economy turned sour in 2008, it has been a struggle. A lot of them changed ownership or shut down, and courses are still fighting for members. We have around 280 members, and we’d like to grow to 350.

Q. How has Wedgewood Pines survived to celebrate its 20th anniversary?

A. Even though the game itself hasn’t grown, we’ve kept our head above water by providing a great product in a beautiful setting for a great value. Ours is a private club, but we’re family-friendly and welcoming to everybody. We’re out there seven days a week, always thinking ahead to the next project that will improve the experience for our members.

Q. What changes are on the horizon?

A. We’re doing new bunkers on the 17th hole, and we’re planning expansions on a few other holes. Making improvements to the course is what I love to do best – and being in the construction business, if we see a problem, we’re able to put an end to it. Being hands-on is the only way to thrive in the bad times. Golf is starting to pick up again, so all our hard work is paying off.

Q. How is your own golf game?

A. I’m an 18 handicap, and I’m always trying to improve. Sometimes I play really well, and sometimes I pick up a club and it’s like I’ve never played before in my life. That’s golf.

Wedgewood Pines Country Club is located at 215 Harvard St. in Stow. For more information, call 978-897-1790 or visit wedgewoodpines.com.

Cindy Cantrell may be reached at cindycantrell20@gmail.com.