The golf course at Tsawwassen Springs has recently been recognized for environmental excellence.
The course has achieved designation as a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary through the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses.
Golf course superintendent Gord Olson led the effort to obtain sanctuary designation on the property and is being recognized for environmental stewardship by Audubon International. Tsawwassen Springs is one of 13 golf courses in B.C. and 911 in the world to hold the title of Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary.
“It has been enlightening working with Audubon International over the past few years and being able to learn from them as well as other certified golf courses around the world,” said Olson.
“We are cognizant of the impact a golf course can have on the surrounding environment and are making every effort to ensure our impact is a positive one.”
To reach certification, a course must demonstrate it is maintaining a high degree of environmental quality in a number of areas, including environmental planning, wildlife and habitat management, outreach and education, chemical use reduction and safety, water conservation and water quality management.
Tsawwassen Springs’s accomplishments include:
- Establishing pollinator habitat through the Monarchs in the Rough program
- Installing and monitoring nest boxes to provide enhanced habitat for a variety of bird species
- Reducing potable water consumption on the course by 40 million gallons per year.
- Their fleet of electric vehicles is all lithium powered as well to reduce their carbon footprint.
“Tsawwassen Springs has shown a strong commitment to its environmental program,” said Christine Kane, CEO at Audubon International. “They are to be commended for their efforts to provide a sanctuary for wildlife on the golf course property.”
The Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses, endorsed by the United States Golf Association, provides information and guidance to help golf courses preserve and enhance wildlife habitat and protect natural resources.
Golf courses from the United States, Africa, Australia, Canada, Central America, Europe, New Zealand and Southeast Asia have achieved certification in the program.
Tsawwassen Springs opened in August of 2012 after a complete renovation of the old Tsawwassen Golf and Country Club.
