At Leeds Golf Design we strongly support a sustainable design approach so when preparing a masterplan of improvements, I always consider the existing environment and the landscape structure where the course fits into.
The environment around the golf course sets the stage for the game and is a vitally important part of golfer’s experience. A golf course is a living ecosystem and consideration of the health of the surrounding environment should be as much a part of the discussion as the turfgrass surfaces.
The naturalization of out of playing areas could be a major opportunity to improve the existing habitats, create new habitats and improve the biodiversity of a golf course. New naturalized areas can host protected or threatened species and wildlife and act as internal corridors linking the golf course with the wider network of surrounding natural habitats.
Not managed rough and autochthon shrubs can also be placed strategically to influence how a hole is played; and this aspect is very interesting for my work as golf course architect. Native planting can act as a true golfing hazard and be as effective as a sand bunker in discouraging golfers to take a route or another.
The naturalization of out of playing areas could also the chance to restore the existing landscape structure.
For instance, at Dartford GC the assessment of the quality of the rough was the opportunity to bring back the lost heathland character of the course. A wise landscape restoration can improve the course from both the ecological and playability point of view- heathers can be strategically placed to demand accuracy and offer risk-reward options. The proposed heathers planting also can be seen as a new natural corridor for local wildlife to move from the nearby Dartford Heath natural reserve to the course.
The same LGD did at Cirencester GC, the improvement of the rough was the chance to select just the native calcareous grassland species and remove invasive species that took advantages over the years.
Furthermore, by reducing the maintained areas a Golf Club can effectively reduce water and energy consumption, and reduce the costs associated with all the maintenance practices, fertilizer inputs, manpower and fuel for the greenkeeping machinery.
Finally, native vegetation can also be a green natural screen, acting as holes’ separator – helping in framing the fairways – or at times alleviating health and safety issues in between holes or along the boundaries.
In conclusion any sustainable golf course renovation should consider minimizing the extent of the managed turf areas. The benefits are so many, an environmental vision and plan is encouraged to ensure the natural environment compliments the golf holes as well and maximises the positive benefits for nature.
