Colorado, with its breathtaking landscapes and emphasis on environmental stewardship, boasts some of the most scenic golf courses in the nation. As public environmental consciousness rises, Colorado golf courses are leading the sustainability movement. Our courses embrace a variety of programs that support best management practices (BMPs) to help enhance natural areas and wildlife habitats, improve efficiencies, and optimize positive employee and community relations. These BMPs are applicable during planning, design, new construction, renovations, and ongoing operations.
Colorado golf’s commitment is underscored by impressive statistics cited in the Colorado Golf Industry Economic and Environmental Impact Report. Specifically, Colorado proudly holds the second-highest percentage of Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program-certified golf facilities in the US at 19 percent. This places the state with a commendable total of 45 Program-certified golf facilities, ranking fourth nationwide.
Examples of External Sustainability Certifications and Standards:
Audubon International is a major certification for golf courses committed to ecological balance. Colorado's rate of these certifications is notably double the average of other states within the Mountain region, standing at a remarkable 20 percent compared to 10 percent. A Colorado golf course with this endorsement demonstrates a deep commitment to preserving local ecosystems, water conservation, and minimal chemical use. These landscapes become a sanctuary for both golf enthusiasts and the local wildlife, ensuring a symbiotic existence.
Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification ensures buildings minimize their environmental footprint through reduced energy and water consumption. A LEED-certified structure represents contemporary eco-consciousness. For Colorado golf courses, this translates to clubhouses and maintenance facilities that blend modern amenities with ecological mindfulness and efficiencies.
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) or Global Goals are a universal call-to-action to end poverty, protect the planet, and promote peace and prosperity. Global goals have been integrated within states, cities, and leading organizations worldwide. The goals are highlighted by section throughout the Colorado Golf Industry BMP Guide to show how proper use of BMPs can drive local and global impacts.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) reports which employ the GRI Standards, a universally-recognized reporting framework, present the sustainability commitment of a golf course or club, in addition to its wellness, economic, and social endeavors to help foster community trust and support forward-thinking leadership.
Best Management Practices for Environmental Sustainability Certification:
Pre-Renovation/Construction:
Post-Renovation/Construction:
Golf courses, especially in a place as ecologically diverse as Colorado, are at the forefront of environmental sustainability. With certifications such as Audubon International, the application of LEED standards, and SDG mapping with CSR reporting and GRI Standards, our courses are setting an example for other commercial sectors. Through these actions, our superintendents and Colorado courses safeguard our natural surroundings and chart a sustainable course for future generations.