The environmental principles for golf courses in the United States
A
group of leading golf and environmental organizations have jointly developed
a set of principles that seek to produce environmental excellence in
golf course planning and siting, design, construction, maintenance and
facility operations.
II.
What are the principles?
These
principles are envisioned as a tool of universal value, for national
use under a variety of circumstances. However, it should be up to local
communities, based on local values, and others involved in the regulatory
process, to assess the environmental compatibility of golf courses.
These
principles are meant to provide a framework for environmental responsibility
in developing goals for existing courses and for considering issues
associated with new courses. They are designed to educate and inform
the public and relevant decision-makers about environmental responsibility,
and to help set goals for environmental performance.
These
principles are voluntary. They are not intended for use in making judgments
about socioeconomic issues. These principles assume regulatory compliance
and are designed to provide opportunities to go beyond that which is
required by law.
These
principles were developed through a collaborative research and dialogue
process, and represent a consensus of all endorsing organizations. They
represent areas of agreement but do not resolve all environmental issues
related to golf. The dialogue and process is ongoing, as is the implementation
of these principles.
How
should they be used?
Good
environmental practice and design is the result of a multitude of factors
and a thorough understanding of how these factors interrelate on a specific
site in a specific locale. The principles are meant to be used as a
guide to making good decisions relative to the planning and siting,
design, construction, maintenance and operation of a golf course. They
are voluntary, and should be interpreted as representing a whole philosophy
of good environmental design and management rather than specific dictates,
each of which must be met in all cases. It is hoped that the principles
will be widely adopted and used to improve the level of environmental
awareness, practice, dialogue, and quality achieved within the game
of golf.
For
further information you are encouraged to contact any or all of the
following organizations that participated in the development of these
principles. A contact person for each organization is listed in Appendix
1.
- American Farmland Trust
- American Society of Golf Course Architects
- Audubon International
- Center for Resource Management
- Friends of the Earth
- Golf Course Superintendents Association of America
- Golf Digest
- National Coalition Against the Misuse of Pesticides
- National Wildlife Federation
- North Carolina Coastal Federation
- Rain Bird -- Golf Division
- Royal Canadian Golf Association
- SENES Oak Ridge Inc. -- Center for Risk Analysis
- Sierra Club
- United States Environmental Protection Agency
- United States Golf Association
See
Appendix 2 for those organizations that have, at this publication, endorsed
the principles.
Precepts
The
participating organizations are committed to the following basic precepts,
which provide a foundation for the environmental principles:
- To enhance local communities ecologically and economically.
- To develop environmentally responsible golf courses
that are economically viable.
- To offer and protect habitat for wildlife and plant
species.
- To recognize that every golf course must be developed
and managed with consideration for the unique conditions of the ecosystem
of which it is a part.
- To provide important greenspace benefits.
- To use natural resources efficiently.
- To respect adjacent land use when planning, constructing,
maintaining and operatinggolf courses.
- To create desirable playing conditions through
practices that preserve environmental quality.
- To support ongoing research to scientifically establish
new and better ways to develop and manage golf courses in harmony
with the environment.
- To document outstanding development and management
practices to promote more widespread implementation of environmentally
sound golf
- To educate golfers and potential developers about
the principles of environmental responsibility and to promote the
understanding that environmentally sound golf courses are quality
golf courses.
III.
Voluntary principles for planning and siting, design, construction,
management, facility operations and what golfers can do to help
A.
Planning and siting
1. Developers, designers and others involved in golf course
development are encouraged to work closely with local community groups
and regulatory/permitting bodies during planning and siting and throughout
the development process. For every site, there will be local environmental
issues and conditions that need to be addressed.
2. Site selection is a critical determinant of the environmental
impact of golf courses. A thorough analysis of the site or sites under
consideration should be completed to evaluate environmental suitability.
It is very important to involve both the designer and a team of qualified
golf and environmental professionals in this process.
3. Based on the site analysis and/or regulatory review process,
it may be determined that some sites are of such environmental value
or sensitivity that they should be avoided. Other less environmentally
sensitive or valuable sites may be more suitable or even improved by
the development of a golf course if careful design and construction
are used to avoid or mitigate environmental impacts.
4. The presence and extent of some types of sensitive environments
may render a site unsuitable or, in some cases, less suitable for golf
course development. Examples include, but are not limited to:
- Wetlands
- Habitat for threatened or endangered
plant or animal species
- Sensitive aquatic habitats
5. There may be opportunities to restore or enhance environmentally
sensitive areas through golf course development by establishing buffer
zones or by setting unmaintained or low-maintenance areas aside within
the site.
6. Golf course development can be an excellent means of restoring
or rehabilitating previously degraded sites (e.g., landfills, quarries
and mines). Golf courses are also excellent treatment systems for effluent
water and use of effluent irrigation is encouraged when it is available,
economically feasible, and agronomically and environmentally acceptable.
B.
Design
1. When designing a golf course, it is important to identify
existing ecosystems. Utilizing what nature has provided is both environmentally
and economically wise. Emphasizing the existing characteristics of the
site can help retain natural resources, allow for efficient maintenance
of the course and will likely reduce permitting and site development
costs.
2. A site analysis and feasibility study should be conducted
by experienced professionals. The identification of environmentally
sensitive areas and other natural resources is important so that a design
can be achieved that carefully balances environmental factors, playability
and aesthetics.
3. Cooperative planning and informational sessions with community
representatives, environmental groups and regulatory agencies should
be part of the initial design phase. Early input from these groups is
very important to the development and approval process. This dialogue
and exchange of information should continue even after the course is
completed.
4. Native and/or naturalized vegetation should be retained
or replanted when appropriate in areas that are not in play. In playing
areas, designers should select grasses that are best adapted to the
local environmental conditions to provide the necessary characteristics
of playability yet permit the use of environmentally sustainable maintenance
techniques.
5. Emphasis should be placed upon the design of irrigation,
drainage and retention systems that provide for efficient use of water
and the protection of water quality. Drainage and stormwater retention
systems should, when possible, be incorporated in the design as features
of the course to help provide for both the short and long term irrigation
needs of the maintained turf and the unmaintained areas of the course.
6. Water reuse strategies for irrigation should be utilized
when economically feasible and environmentally and agronomically acceptable.
It is important that recycled water meets applicable health and environmental
standards and that special consideration be given to water quality issues
and adequate buffer zones. Water reuse may not be feasible on some sites
that drain into high quality wetlands or sensitive surface waters. Suitable
soils, climatic conditions, groundwater hydrology, vegetative cover,
adequate storage for treated effluent and other factors will all influence
the feasibility of water reuse.
7. Buffer zones or other protective measures should be maintained
and/or created, if appropriate, to protect high quality surface water
resources or environmentally sensitive areas. The design and placement
of buffer zones will vary based on the water quality classifications
of the surface waters being incorporated into the course. Regulatory
agencies and environmental groups can assist in the planning of buffer
zones.
8. Design the course with sustainable maintenance in mind.
The design should incorporate integrated plant management and resource
conservation strategies that are environmentally responsible, efficient,
and cost effective. Integrated plant management includes integrated
pest management and emphasizes plant nutrition and overall plant health.
9. The design of the course should enhance and protect special
environmental resource areas and when present, improve or revive previously
degraded areas within the site through the use of plants that are well
adapted to the region. Seek opportunities to create and/or preserve
habitat areas that enhance the area's ecosystem.
C.
Construction
1. Use only qualified contractors who are experienced in the
special requirements of golf course construction.
2. Develop and implement strategies to effectively control
sediment, minimize the loss of topsoil, protect water resources, and
reduce disruption to wildlife, plant species and designated environmental
resource areas.
3. Scheduleconstruction and turf establishment to allow for
the most efficient progress of the work while optimizing environmental
conservation and resource management.
4. Retain a qualified golf course superintendent/project manager
early in the design and construction process(es) to integrate sustainable
maintenance practices in the development, maintenance and operation
of the course.
D.
Maintenance
Plant
protection and nutrition
1. Employ the principles of integrated plant management, a
system that relies on a combination of common sense practices of preventing
and controlling pests (e.g., weeds, diseases, insects) in which monitoring
is utilized to identify pests, damage thresholds are considered, all
possible management options are evaluated and selected control(s) are
implemented. IPM involves a series of steps in the decision-making process:
a. Through regular monitoring and record keeping, identify
the pest problem, analyze the conditions causing it, and determine the
damage threshold level below which the pest can be tolerated.
b. Devise ways to change conditions to prevent or discourage
recurrence of the problem. Examples include: utilizing improved (e.g.,
drought resistant, pest resistant) turfgrass varieties, modifying microclimate
conditions, or changing cultural practice management programs.
c. If damage thresholds are met, select the combination of
control strategies to suppress the pest populations with minimal environmental
impact, to avoid surpassing threshold limits. Control measures include
biological, cultural, physical, mechanical, and chemical methods. Biological
control methods must be environmentally sound and should be properly
screened and tested before implementation.
Non-chemical control measures should focus on practices such
as the introduction of natural pest enemies (e.g., parasites and predators),
utilizing syringing techniques, improving air movement, soil aerification
techniques, and mechanical traps. The selection of chemical control
strategies should be utilized only when other strategies are inadequate.
When chemical and nutrient products need to be applied, the
following practices should be utilized
2. Always read and follow label directions when using any plant
protectant products. Strive to treat problems at the proper time and
under the proper conditions to maximize effectiveness with minimal environmental
impact. Spot treatments may provide early, effective control of problems
before damage thresholds are reached.
3. Store and handle all pest control and nutrient products
in a manner that minimizes worker exposure and/or the potential for
point or non-point source pollution. Employ proper chemical storage
practices and use suitable personal protective equipment and handling
techniques.
4. Use nutrient products and practices that reduce the potential
for contamination of ground and surface water. Strategies include: use
of slow-release fertilizers, selected organic products, and/or fertigation.
5. Test and monitor soil conditions regularly and modify practices
accordingly. Choose nutrient products and time applications to meet,
not exceed, the needs of the turfgrass.
6. All plant protectant products should only be applied by
or under the supervision of a trained, licensed applicator or as dictated
by law.
7. Maintain excellence in the continuing education of applicators
(including state licensing, professional association training and IPM
certification). Training for non-English speaking applicators should
be provided in the worker's native language.
8. Facilities should inform golfers and guests about golf course
chemical applications. Common methods include permanent signs on the
first and tenth tee boxes and/or notices posted in golf shops and locker
rooms.
Water
usage
1. Use native, naturalized or specialized drought-tolerant
plant materials wherever possible. For areas in play (greens, tees and
fairways), using plant materials that: are well-adapted to local environmental
conditions; can be efficiently managed; and provide the desired playing
characteristics.
2. Plan irrigation patterns and/or program irrigation control
systems to meet the needs of the plant materials in order to minimize
overwatering. When feasible, use modern irrigation technologies that
provide highly efficient water usage. Inspect systems regularly for
leaks and monitor water usage.
3. Water at appropriate times to minimize evaporation and reduce
the potential for disease.
4. Consider converting to effluent irrigation systems when
available, economically feasible and agronomically and environmentally
acceptable.
5. Manage water use effectively to prevent unnecessary depletion
of local water resources.
Waste
management
1. Leave grass clippings and other organic materials in place
whenever agronomically possible. If clippings are removed, compost and,
if possible, recycle them.
2. Dispose of chemical rinsate in a manner that will not increase
the potential for point or non-point source pollution. Methods include
rinsate recycling or "spraying out" diluted compound in previously
untreated areas.
3. Dispose of chemical packaging according to label directions
(e.g., triple rinsing, recycling or returning to manufacturer).
4. Other waste products, such as used motor oil, electric batteries
and unused solvents, should be recycled or disposed of according to
the law and available community disposal techniques.
5. Seek to reduce waste by purchasing products that minimize
unnecessary packaging.
Wildlife
management
1. Habitat for wildlife species that help control pests (e.g.,
bats, bluebirds, purple martins, etc.) should be protected. Additional
habitat for these beneficial species should be created whenever feasible
and environmentally desirable.
2. Manage habitat to maintain healthy populations of wildlife
and aquatic species.
3. Species such as skunks, non-migratory Canada geese, and
deer, when they become damaging, should be managed through nonharmful
means whenever possible. Nonharmful control methods could include dogs,
noisemakers, repellents, and trapping and removal. Managed hunting may
be appropriate where legal and safe.
E.
Facility operations
1. Facilities should conduct an environmental assessment in
order to develop and implement an overall environmental policy and/or
long-range plan that reflects or expands upon these principles.
2. Maintain ongoing records to measure and document progress
toward environmental improvement.
3. The environmentally responsible practices adopted for the
maintenance of the golf course should extend to all areas of the overall
facility grounds.
4. Facilities should adopt practices and technologies that
conserve natural resources, including water and energy.
5. Facilities should develop and initiate comprehensive programs
for recycling, reuse and waste reduction.
6. Facilities should properly store and dispose of solvents,
cleaning materials, paints and other potentially hazardous substances.
7. Facilities are urged to join programs that help to foster
effective environmental management and policies.
8. Facilities should take active steps to educate golfers,
neighbors and the general public about their environmental policies
and practices.
F.
What golfers can do to help
The
American golf community is dedicated to preserving the game's treasured
links to nature. As a result, golf courses are now being developed,
designed and managed more responsibly than ever before. However, we
who play the game also have a responsibility to help ensure that golf
remains compatible with nature and that our courses are well-managed
and in harmony with the environment.
As
golfers, we should:
1. Recognize that golf courses are managed land areas that
should complement the natural environment.
2. Respect designated environmentally sensitive areas within
the course.
3. Accept the natural limitations and variations of turfgrass
plants growing under conditions that protect environmental resources
(e.g., brown patches, thinning, loss of color).
4. Support golf course management decisions that protect or
enhance the environment and encourage the development of environmental
conservation plans.
5. Support maintenance practices that protect wildlife and
natural habitat.
6. Encourage maintenance practices that promote the long-range
health of the turf and support environmental objectives. Such practices
include aerification, reduced fertilization, limited play on sensitive
turf areas, reduced watering, etc.
7. Commit to long-range conservation efforts (e.g., efficient
water use, integrated plant management, etc.) on the golf course and
at home.
8. Educate others about the benefits of environmentally responsible
golf course management.
9. Support research and education programs that expand our
understanding of the relationship between golf and the environment.
10. Take pride in our environmentally responsible courses.
Appendix
1
The "Environmental Principles for Golf Courses in the United States"
were developed through a collaborative research and dialogue process
managed and facilitated by the Center for Resource Management. The following
individuals participated in this process and can be contacted for further
information.
| American
Farmland Trust |
Golf
Digest |
| American
Society |
Beyond
Pesticides/NCAMP |
| Mike
Hurdzan, Ph.D. |
North
Carolina |
|
|
Royal
Canadian Golf Association |
| Meredith
Miller |
United
States |
| Friends
of the Earth |
United
States Golf Association |
Appendix
2
The following organizations have, at the time of publication,* endorsed
the "Environmental Principles for Golf Courses in the United States."
- American Society of Golf Course Architects
- Arizona Golf Association
- Audubon International
- Center for Resource Management
- Club Managers Association of America
- Friends of the Earth
- Golf Course Builders Association of America
- Golf Course Superintendents Association of America
- Ladies Professional Golf Association
- National Club Association
- National Coalition Against the Misuse of Pesticides
- National Golf Foundation
- National Wildlife Federation
- North Carolina Coastal Federation
- Pamlico -- Tar River Foundation
- Save the Bay
- Southern Environmental Law Center
- United States Environmental Protection Agency
- United States Golf Association
*
March 1996.