LEXINGTON, KY.—Griffin Gate Golf Club, at the newly renovated Kentucky resort, the Griffin Gate Marriott Resort & Spa, has received certification in Environmental Planning from the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program (ACSP).
The ACSP is an international program administered by Audubon International designed to help landowners preserve and enhance the environmental quality of their property. The plan at the Lexington hotel was developed by Scott Bender, director of grounds, who is also recognized for his effort to plan for environmental stewardship.
The ACSP for Golf Courses provides advisory service to help existing golf courses develop effective conservation and wildlife enhancement programs. This worldwide effort is coordinated by Audubon International and is sponsored in part by the United States Golf Assn.
Wildlife Rights Respected
“The open space on this Lexington golf course is utilized not only by golfers, but is habitat for a variety of wildlife species,” says Joellen Zeh, program manager for Audubon International. “We welcome the Kentucky hotel’s golf club to the program and appreciate its commitment to the environment and to managing the golf course with wildlife in mind.”
By joining and participating in the ACSS, Griffin Gate Golf Club will be involved in projects that enhance habitat for wildlife and preserve natural resources for the benefit of the local community. These projects may include: placing nesting boxes for cavity-nesting birds such as bluebirds and swallows, utilizing integrated pest management techniques, conserving water, and maintaining food and cover for wildlife.
“The ACSS benefits both people and wildlife,” Zeh says. “It’s a great way for the managers of developed properties and environmental organizations to work together to become better stewards of land and natural resources.”
