Audubon Releases New Edition of “A Guide to Environmental Stewardship on the Golf Course”

Audubon International – the environmentally focused non-profit organization offering members numerous certifications and conservation initiatives to protect the areas where we all live, work, and play – has released the newly updated version of its  “A Guide to Environmental Stewardship on the Golf Course.” 

This revised 3rd edition is available to all Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses (ASCP) members as part of the organization’s 35th anniversary celebration and replaces the 2nd edition, which was last updated in 2013. The new guide incorporates knowledge gained through Audubon International’s decades of experience helping golf courses serve as ecologically valuable green spaces, while reducing potential environmental impacts associated with golf course operations. 

“The 3rd edition closely reflects the expertise and experiences of the thousands of golf course superintendents, golf industry professionals, environmental organizations, researchers, and others, who have participated in the ASCP since 1991,” said Audubon International Chief Executive Officer Christine Kane. “We hope our members will refer to this new document frequently and allow it to guide them with sustainable practices already in place, as well as help introduce new ones at their courses, leading to tangible environmental results.”

Every chapter in the 3rd edition has been updated to provide current information, resources, and links. Highlights of the many other modifications include: 

• Dividing the former Chapter 3, titled “Chemical Use Reduction and Safety,” into two separate chapters: “Chemical Use Reduction and Chemical Safety” and “Maintenance Operations,” which emphasizes the importance of both topics while providing greater detail

• Referencing current “Best Management Practices,” which have now been adopted in all 50 U.S. states, and other operational trends

• Providing comprehensive details regarding the planning process and implementation of water quality monitoring programs that meet certification guidelines

• Updating and enhancing the “References” and “Appendix” sections in order to provide more extensive information

David H. Robinson, CGCS, CGIA, Senior Director, Golf Grounds, Global Golf Division of Marriott Golf, was one of the many industry professionals to provide valuable input and counsel on the 3rd edition and called it a “must-have for every professional library.”

“Managing and enhancing the natural habitat of golf courses is a key goal for all industry leaders,” said Robinson. “The Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf provides a framework that strengthens a facility’s sustainability efforts. The benefits of completing the program are always immeasurable.”

Related: Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses: More Relevant than Ever

Audubon International began its 35th anniversary on July 1 with the announcement that it would waive the enrollment fee for the first 35 new members of the ACSP, by using the code “35Years” during the application process. Bringing on 35 new members will equal an investment of $17,500 and kicked off a calendar year of other important initiatives, such as the release of the new guidebook.

To learn more about how your local golf course, community or resort can gain recognition for your environmental efforts or to learn how to expand your initiatives through Audubon International’s numerous environmental certifications, visit www.auduboninternational.org or call toll free: 1-844-767-9051

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About Audubon International

An environmentally focused non-profit organization, Audubon International offers members numerous certifications and conservation initiatives to protect the areas where we all live, work, and play. Its certifications are designed to increase environmental awareness, encourage sustainable environmental efforts, and educate both its members and their communities.