The St. Andrews Club golf course has become the 100th course in Florida to obtain sanctuary status from Audubon International.
The Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary designation was achieved through the efforts of Course Superintendent Frank Monk and his team after researching new methods of course management.
“The old, unpopular way of treating golf courses involved heavy use of water and chemicals on the entire course … The Audubon program changes were easy to learn, and easy to make,” said Monk.
To reach certification, a course must demonstrate they are 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.
“The St. Andrews Cub is to be commended for their efforts to provide a sanctuary for wildlife on the golf course property,” said Jim Sluiter, staff ecologist for the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Programs.
The sanctuary program — endorsed by the U.S. Golf Association — provides information and guidance to help golf courses around the world preserve and enhance wildlife habitat and protect natural resources.
Other area courses with the Audubon designation include: Mizner Country Club, Highridge Country Club, Quail Ridge Country Club, Links at Boynton Beach and the Country Club of Florida.
According to Monk: “We’ve made the course a healthier environment for both people and wildlife.”
— Staff Reports
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