Fall Creek Falls golf course gets eco designation

Fall Creek Falls golf course has been designated a “Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary” by Audubon International, according to a state announcement today.

That means it has met the needed criteria, including for environmental planning, wildlife and habitat management, chemical use reduction and water conservation.

This is the 10th course in Tennessee and the third in the Tennessee State Parks system to get the designation. Worldwide, there are 761.

Billy Maxwell, PGA professional and golf course manager at Fall Creek Falls, and Wayne Belew, a golf course volunteer, led the effort to get sanctuary status.

“Fall Creek Falls Golf Course joins the Bear Trace at Harrison Bay and Paris Landing’s golf course in achieving the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary status,” Commissioner Jim Fyke, Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation,, said in the emailed announcement.

“Billy Maxwell and his team have led a commendable effort and I am very proud of the staff’s dedication in achieving such a notable designation.”

The Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses provides guidance to help golf courses preserve and enhance wildlife habitat, and protect natural resources.

In addition to golf courses, Audubon International provides programs for businesses, schools, communities and new developments. For more information, contact Audubon International, 46 Rarick Road, Selkirk, New York 12158, call (518) 767-9051 or e-mail them at acsp@auduboninternational.org