THE STANWICH CLUB

Fescue and Golf

In response to public criticism regarding usage of pesticides, fertilizers and water, for the past couple of decades, the golf course industry has been involved in an environmental movement to show that golf is not a detriment to the environment, and in fact, actually helps to enhance it. Locally, the MGA has embraced this idea and presents an annual award for environmental stewardship called the MGA Arthur P. Weber Environmental Leaders in Golf Award. It is in that conscience that we decided to experiment with some naturalized areas for this golf season.

The areas that were identified for naturalization were chosen based on 2 criteria. First  that they were generally out of play, and secondly be comprised of native Fescues which could just be allowed to grow wild.

The benefits to the environment are twofold. They provide attractive habitat for all types of wildlife and they allow us to reduce cultural inputs and valuable resources by saving funds spent on man-hours for mowing activities ( those areas would all be cut 30 times/ year), gasoline, oil, pesticides and fertilizers.

Fine leaf Fescue is a common feature on golf courses all around the world. It provides an excellent hazard, a home for various wildlife and a beautiful framework for golf holes.

Sincerely,

Scott Niven

Property Manager