Holmes and Pioneers join environment protection program

Pioneers Golf Course (pictured above) and Holmes Golf Course recently joined the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program.

We are excited about this opportunity to expand our already ongoing environmental efforts and incorporate additional areas for wild life and create outdoor learning centers.

This effort will be ongoing and I am asking for volunteer help moving forward. If you feel this program would be something you’re willing to assist with please contact me at the information provided. Here are some quick facts about the program from the ACSP website.

What is the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses? 

The Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses (ACSP) is an environmental education and certification program that helps golf courses protect the environment, preserve the natural heritage of the game of golf and gain recognition for their efforts. Through collaborative efforts begun in 1991 with the United States Golf Association, membership in the ACSP has steadily grown to include more than 2,300 golf courses in the United States and three dozen countries worldwide.

The Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program will help further the efforts of Holmes Golf Course (pictured above) and Pioneers Golf Course to protect the environment.

How does it work?
The ACSP assists each golf course member to take stock of its environmental resources and any potential liabilities, and then develop a plan that fits its unique setting, goals, staff, budget and time. The program is easily tailored to a variety of different types of courses, including: private clubs, public and municipal courses, PGA sites, nine-hole facilities, resort courses and golf residential communities.
Audubon International provides information to help golf course personnel with six key environmental components:
• Environmental Planning
• Wildlife and Habitat Management
• Chemical Use Reduction and Safety
• Water Conservation
• Water Quality Management
• Outreach and Education

Over 2,300 golf courses in the U.S. belong to the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program, including Lincoln’s Holmes Golf Course (pictured above) and Pioneers Golf Course.

Certification
Designation as a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary is awarded to the golf course upon meeting environmental management standards in each area. Achieving certification demonstrates an organization’s leadership, commitment and high standards of environmental management.
To be designated, golf course personnel develop and implement an environmental management plan and document the results. Recertification is required every three years to maintain membership.