been degraded due to knock on effects from other management strategies or in the actual building of the course is important. This will help bring back the local character to the course.
Protect wildlife
Erect bird and bat boxes in quiet out-of-play areas on the course. Inform golfers not to disturb animals especially during nesting and breeding. This will help keep wildlife population on the course optimal and will also alert the locals that you are doing your bit to help wildlife in the area, making sure the course has a good image in terms of the local environment. Wildlife usually has a preference to observe us from afar (no matter how good your swing is!) and usually do not like to be observed. A successful habitat will contain the four fundamental elements, namely space, food, water and shelter. When all these four components are available it ensures a healthy and diverse wildlife population.
Needless to say, all the above steps need not be implemented at the same time - a gradual implementation will certainly enhance wildlife and the environment on the course. Each individual course is unique in its management strategies and also in
By sticking to the fundamental principles many things can be achieved and improved (and built on in the future):
• Habitats will be improved
• Wildlife population will be improved
• Wildlife activity will be improved • Aesthetics will be enhanced
• The image of the golf course will be improved
• Maintenance can be reduced • Chemical use can be reduced
When deciding to implement a strategy plan to improve wildlife and the environment it is important to set realistic goals and work with what is available. Small steps can add greatly to the state of the golf course in terms of nature and environmental development.
About the Author: Mary Purcell is carrying out research for a doctorate degree in Environmental Science at University College Dublin in the School of Architecture, Landscape and Civil Engineering. For more information contact Mary at
mary.purcell@ucd.ie
the state of particular features. Priority can be given to principles which can be realistically improved in terms of finance, time and labour and built upon over time to achieve tremendous environmental enhancement.
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