Abstract: A method and apparatus for filling holes which have been made in the ground, by causing a machine which includes a rotary rake at its extreme front end to pass over the ground. In the case in which the ground area planted with grass is a racecourse or equestrian training ground, the machine is preferably driven over the course in a direction opposite to the direction in which the horses have been moving, the rotary rake being driven so as to rotate with a forward velocity tangential to the ground. The machine also includes a soil consolidating device disposed behind the rotary rake to tamp the soil which is replaced in the holes by the rake so that the soil will remain in place.