The course supports natterjack toads and sand lizards both of which are given international protection


gives international protection under the European Habitat (Conservation) Regulations.


The course supports natterjack toads and sand lizards, both of which are given international protection under the above legislation. Under the regulations it is an offence to disturb the habitats used by these animals or to directly, or indirectly, injure or kill them, and special licences are required to handle them. Given all of the above, The R&A commissioned an amphibian and reptile survey through the Herpetological Conservation Trust, key areas of sensitivity were identified and, prior to The Open, these areas were cordoned. Dr. Kelly Harmar from the STRI worked closely with the Herpetological Conservation Trust and Natural England in securing a Method Statement detailing mitigation measures aimed at minimising impact on these important species.


Contractors were asked to ensure that all pits excavated for foot blocks be completed within the day and were made aware of the importance of not leaving piles of sand overnight. Loose, stockpiled sand could encourage natterjack toads to burrow. Indeed, contract teams were


given a full briefing of best practice working by the


Herpetological Conservation Trust before


commencing with any set up construction procedures. The greenstaff


Sand Lizard


were given training for handling and dealing with protected species should the need arise, with Chris Whittle assuming a new role as Conservation Officer during the period of the event.


Scrub management is an important and ongoing concern at Royal Birkdale and one that is generally dealt with annually. This issue, leading up to The Open, clearly involves more fine tuning, i.e. ensuring that scrub does not overly impede spectator viewing. Greenstaff also had to ensure that no stumps were left above ground that could cause tripping or injury.


The R&A publishes a guide to the management of the links for wildlife and conservation at each of its Open Championships. For the Royal Birkdale


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booklet, Kelly Harmar visited the course during early spring to take pictures of


wildflowers and animals on the course. She also produced much of the


text for the publication which was made freely available at The Open. An electronic version of the guide can be viewed and downloaded from The R&A Open website at www.opengolf.com/ChampionshipGolf/TheOpe nChampionship/TheCourse.aspx Also visit www.randa.org and/or www.bestcourseforgolf.org for additional information on the developing activities of The R&A. The above represents just one small aspect of the effort and time that went into the preparation for The Open Championship, which clearly would not have been possible without the diligence and professionalism of all those that have contributed once again to its outstanding success.


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