Calabash, NC/Myrtle Beach, SC – Audubon International Society is helping golf courses protect the environment and preserve the natural heritage of the game of golf. Its programs can demonstrate clear, on-the-ground accomplishments that benefit the environment and successfully change people’s attitudes.

Some years ago Caw Caw Land Development Corporation granted a conservation easement on the footprint of the Brunswick Plantation Golf Course that precludes development of this property into lots or condominiums. The Easement was to a Land Trust whose duty is to monitor the operation of the course in keeping with terms of the Easement.

A recent review of the Course by the Trust found Brunswick Plantation to be in full compliance; however, recommendations were made which will express a positive attitude to environmental care. They include:

- Reduce chemical use as much as possible.
- Allow herbaceous vegetation in rough areas to grow to flowering height when practicable.
- Protect wetlands from sedimentation.

At Brunswick Plantation a diversity of plants, fowl, and animals runs prevalent due in part to a large number of lakes and ponds. With a need to protect both the quality of water and the amount of water needed in dry times, Brunswick Planataion has decided to become an “Audubon Certified
Course” and participate in their “Committed to Green” program.

To announce their commitment to helping the natural environment, Brunswick Plantation recognizes that respect for the environment goes hand in hand with human well being and sporting excellence. In golf, harmonious integration with nature and the wise use of natural resources are the proper goals of all responsible managers.

Their policy has three tangible directions:

- Good housekeeping-to manage the course, clubhouse, and facilities in ways to minimize deleterious environmental impact and use of natural resources.
- Conservation of biodiversity-to maximize the ecological potential of
the golf course.
- Communication and education-to ensure the public accurately perceives
our environmental attitude, policies, and practices.

To implement their “Committed to Green” policy, goals include but are not limited to:

- Naturalizing some out of play areas, mainly along the tree areas and pond banks. The tree line areas will be allowed to grow to their vegetative flowering height.
- Monitoring of the natural vegetation to see what grows best.
- Out of play areas will be planted in native grasses and/or wildflowers, adding beauty to the course and providing food and nesting for wildlife.
- Adding nesting boxes for Blue Birds and Purple Martins.

All of these things will have a positive impact on the golf course and on Brunswick Plantation as a whole. Lakes will be cleaner and have better water quality. Fish and waterfowl will increase. Aesthetics of the course will improve and the views will be natural. Less water will be used in
critical water usage months. These areas will become no-mow and chemical free zones to protect the community.

Audubon International Society is a good fit for Brunswick Plantation and they will be working closely with them. This partnership will enhance the beauty and sustainability of the course for the future.

For more information on Brunswick Plantation, please visit www.brunswickplantation.com.