HILTON HEAD ISLAND, S.C. -- Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort has taken another step in ensuring the care and growth of wildlife on its golf courses through work with Audubon International. The Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses (ACSP) has certified the Arthur Hills course in Environmental Planning, a program designed to help golf courses preserve and enhance the environmental quality of their courses.
This is the first of six steps needed to become a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Golf Course. The Robert Trent Jones course completed the certification in 2012, and the resort hopes to complete the process for Hills by the end of 2015 with the George Fazio course soon to follow.
“The Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program benefits both people and wildlife,” says Tara Pepperman, director of Cooperative Sanctuary Programs at Audubon International. “It’s a great way for the managers of developed properties and environmental organizations to work together to become better stewards of land and natural resources.”
Equipment operators and golf superintendents have been working hard to earn the designation at Hills, mapping habitat, conducting wildlife counts, creating new nesting areas and submitting the required paperwork. “By joining and participating in the ACSP, the Hills Course will enhance habitat for wildlife and preserve natural resources for the local community,” says Patrick Wake, director of golf course maintenance for the Hills course.
The Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses, endorsed by the United States Golf Association, provides information and guidance to help golf courses preserve and enhance wildlife habitat, and protect natural resources. Golf courses from the United States, Africa, Australia, Canada, Central America, Europe, New Zealand and Southeast Asia have also achieved certification in the program. In addition to golf courses, Audubon International also provides programs for businesses, schools, communities, and new developments. For more information, visit www.auduboninternational.org.
