Audubon International

 
The Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Programme is an award winning education and environmental certification programme.  In 2011, Uplands Golf Club became the first semi-private golf club on Vancouver Island to become a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary.
 
There are six individual levels of certification required to become a certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary. The following are the six levels required for full certification.
 

1.   Environmental Planning

A Site Assessment of the property inventoried all environmental aspects of the golf course. The environmental plan serves as the guideline to achieve all six levels of certification.
 

2.  Wildlife & Habitat Management

Wildlife habitat enhancement projects were created to help promote plants and animal species that would naturally thrive in our region and also serve to protect biodiversity and ensure conservation.  For example, here is a listing of all the Bird Species seen on the course from time to time. 
 

3.  Chemical Use Reduction & Safety

Integrated pest management (IPM) programmes were developed along with Best Management Practices (BMP). The goal is to promote healthy turf with minimal impact to the environment.
 

4.  Water Conservation

A state-of-the-art irrigation system was installed with individual sprinkler head control, along with the use of moisture sensors, this has helped reduce water consumption.
 

5.  Water Quality Management

Our management strategies ensure that we protect water bodies on course by increasing buffer zones. Various aquatic plants improve habitat for the various species that reside in and around the ponds.
 

6.  Outreach & Education

Uplands Golf Club uses a wide variety of media to communicate Audubon and environmental initiatives to educate the membership and public about the positive benefits of being a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary.
For further information on Audubon visit