CONSERVATION & ECOLOGY
Fig. 8. Gullane constructed wetland
Fig. 10. Algae bloom in eutrophicated water
case of water, this connection can be made surprisingly simplistically.
Fresh water ecosystems are vital in providing many supporting, provisioning and regulating ecosystem services. These include areas such as clean water, food and biodiversity. Currently, one of the greatest threats to the health of them is through a condition referred to as eutrophication. This occurs when a water body is loaded with elevated levels of nutrients, with the main regulating nutrients being nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P). Elevated levels of these nutrients stimulates increased primary growth, with the subsequent increase in respiration reducing oxygen availability in the water body which hinders its ability to function. A clear sign of eutrophication that you may have seen is the presence of phytoplankton and cyanobacteria algae blooms on the water surface (Fig. 10). Whilst in turf maintenance you may encourage nutrition, fresh water systems do not want or require additional inputs of nutrients from foreign sources. As N and
P are two macro nutrients predominately used in turf fertiliser programmes, any steps that can be taken to reduce their leaching can only be of benefit to surrounding water bodies. As shown previously, management of water through constructed wetlands and ‘cell’ ditch systems can assist in regulating and reducing entry of these nutrients in to catchment sources. This is a prime example of the positive impact golf courses can have on external environmental factors. So to summarise, the impact and effects of climate change will continue to be debated in many quarters but one thing that cannot be denied is that weather patterns are changing. To face forthcoming challenges presented by changes in rainfall volume and frequency, the industry must be prepared to learn from other sectors. The status quo will no longer suffice, innovative methods in dealing with water will be required. By recognising that the use of features such as constructed wetlands and flowing ‘cell’ systems not only help us find solutions
for on course issues but also benefits the surrounding environment, progress can be made in both areas. Water tables lowered, flooding and saturation reduced, ecology promoted, and the prevention of nutrient loading in to nearby fresh water systems. The benefits are numerous and of a high value.
Appreciating the long-term value of water as a finite resource and not as a disposable commodity should encourage greater responsibility in its management. After all, the water that you are dependent on today will be required at some point in time by future generations.
• Thank you to Paul Murphy of the Fife Golf Trust and Stewart Duff at Gullane Golf Club for their assistance in researching this article
• Derek is currently undertaking Post Graduate study at the University College Dublin in Environmental Sustainability
Derek Fullerton BSc (Hons) Murrayfield Golf Club, Edinburgh
Instead of thinking of ways to remove water as quickly as possible off the course, perhaps you need to recognise the value of controlling it on the course prior to exit
Fig. 9. Wetland fauna 124 PC August/September 2018
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