New computerized irrigation systems, linked to weather satellites, help reduce over-watering and new grasses are being bred to resist pests and endure drought. In 1995 environmentalists and golf industry leaders got together to air their differences at a Golf and the Environment Conference in Pebble Beach, California. This conference produced a document signed by more than 40 environmental and golf industry leaders, that established voluntary environmental guidelines for new and existing courses. Sierra Club U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Audubon International has developed a six phase Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary program which entails complete cataloging of plant and animal species, as well as a variety of steps to improve bio-diversity and reduce pollution and waste. Some 2,000 courses are in various stages of certification.
Golf courses preserve open space and provide havens for wildlife.
Michael Hodge, Senior Wildlife Biologist at Wildlife Habitat Council says, Golf courses can make good wildlife habitats. A lot of bird watchers would agree that they re often sanctuaries for different species of birds. I know of many bird watching clubs that frequent golf courses. Courses can be a way of reclaiming damaged lands that were devoid of animal life. The good, the bad and the formerly ugly is a chart included at the end of the article which features 3 golf courses in each category mentioned above.