The Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf is an award winning education and certification program that helps golf courses protect our environment and preserve the natural heritage of the game of golf. By helping people enhance the valuable natural areas and wildlife habitats that golf courses provide, improve efficiency, and minimize potentially harmful impacts of golf course operations, the program serves as vital resource for golf courses. Audubon International has developed Standard Environmental Management Practices that are generally applicable to all golf courses. These standards form the basis for ACSP for Golf certification guidelines. For a full list of all golf courses certified in ACSP for Golf,Signature, or Classic Programs,
Get Involved and Get Results
Getting involved is easy. Membership is open to golf courses in the United States and internationally, including private clubs, public and municipal courses, PGA sites, 9-hole facilities, resort courses, and golf residential communities. After joining the program, your next step is to take stock of environmental resources and potential liabilities, and then develop an environmental plan that fits your unique setting, goals, staff, budget, and time. Audubon International provides a Site Assessment and Environmental Planning Form to provide guidance, as well as educational information to help you with:
- Environmental Planning
- Wildlife and Habitat Management
- Chemical Use Reduction and Safety
- Water Conservation
- Water Quality Management
- Outreach and Education
Based on a site specific report provided by Audubon International, you develop a plan that works for your golf course. By implementing and documenting environmental management practices in the above areas, a golf course is eligible for designation as a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary, improving its stature and reputation.
Members receive A Guide to Environmental Stewardship, an attractive membership art print, a subscription to our Stewardship News newsletter, and a Certification Handbook to help you plan, organize, and document your environmental efforts. Membership also includes certification review and Audubon staff support and direct consultation via telephone, written communication, and e-mail. Site visits are available on a fee-for-service basis.
Most important, ACSP members get results. They improve environmental performance and community relations, reduce liability, save money, and contribute to the conservation of environmental resources.
Annual program membership fees are $200 (USD) for properties located in the United States and $250 (USD) for properties in all other countries.
