The overall results seem to indicate that local golf courses probably are not major contributors of elevated nitrate and phosphate levels in the Dog River Watershed. Interviews conducted with the superintendent at each golf course provided the following information. Organic sludge, as well as organic poultry litter, is also used to minimize elevated nitrate and phosphate levels. Each course stated that they do incorporate a series of retention ponds to further extract nitrogen and phosphorus before it enters local streams. When asked whether or not there is a certain schedule in applying fertilizer, all responded that there is no set schedule.
Different seasons require different amounts of fertilizer.
Basically, fertilizer is put out on a per need basis only. The results of this study show that golf courses in the Dog River Watershed are not major contributors to significant amounts of nitrates and phosphates in local streams. This is probably a direct result of the steps taken in building and maintaining the courses themselves. This study shows that golf courses in the Dog River Watershed are aware of the potential problems of nutrient runoff, and are taking the appropriate steps necessary to minimize this problem. Although this study shows that golf courses are not contributing to elevated nitrate and phosphate levels, it is important to understand that this study is very limited in scope.