As you know, at St. Andrews we are proud of our commitment to the local community and our impact on the environment. In 2011, we received recognition for this commitment—a certification in Environmental Planning from the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses (ACSP), an international program administered by Audubon International designed to help landowners preserve and enhance the environmental quality of their property. We are particularly proud of George Kervern, our Director of Golf Course Maintenance, who developed and executed the plan.
The Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses provides an advisory service to help existing golf courses develop effective conservation and wildlife enhancement programs. This worldwide effort is coordinated by Audubon International and is sponsored in part by the United States Golf Association.
“The open space of a golf course is utilized not only by golfers, but is habitat for a variety of wildlife species,” explained Jim Sluiter, Staff Ecologist for Audubon International. “We welcome St. Andrews Country Club’s commitment to the environment and to managing the golf course with wildlife in mind.”
By joining and participating in the ACSP, St. Andrews Country Club will be involved in projects that enhance habitat for wildlife and preserve natural resources for the benefit of the local community. These projects may include: placing nesting boxes for cavity-nesting birds such as bluebirds and swallows, utilizing integrated pest management techniques, conserving water, and maintaining food and cover for wildlife.
“The Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program benefits both people and wildlife,” said Sluiter. “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.”
Our participation in Audubon’s program is an illustration of our mission here at St. Andrews. Not only do we strive to create an unparalleled lifestyle experience for our members, but we are committed to having a positive impact on our surroundings. From hosting charity dinners to pursuing environmental initiatives, we’re always looking for the next opportunity to make a difference. We’re proud of our members and our team—and our recent Audubon certification is simply the latest example of what we can accomplish when we all pull together.