HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda - 08-20-1996 - IX-D r-
1
ORANGE COUNTY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT
Meeting Date: August 20, 1996
Action Agenda
Item #__TJ_D
SUBJECT: Charge to the Golf Course Amendment Review Task Force (Golf CART)
DEPARTMENT: Planning& Inspections PUBLIC HEARING: Yes_X_No
BUDGET AMENDMENT REQUIRED: Yes X No
ATTACHMENT(S): INFORMATION CONTACT: Emily Cameron
BOCC Goal Extension 2580
Draft Charge& List of Potential Members
Environmental Principles for Golf Courses
in the United States
Letter from NACo
TELEPHONE NUMBERS:
Hillsborough- 732-8181
Durham - 688-7331
Mebane -227-2031
Chapel Hill -967-9251
PURPOSE: To consider a charge and appointments for the Golf Course Amendment Review
Task Force (Golf CART).
BACKGROUND: During discussion of the Rural Character Strategies and the University Station
Project, citizens and advisory board members expressed concern over the potential
impacts of golf courses, particularly when allowed as a use of open space required
with residential development. Currently, a golf course is a permitted use in most
zoning districts; however, there are no specific standards for golf courses in the
— - Zoning Ordinance to address impacts to the environment.
In 1995 the Board of County Commissioners adopted Natural Resource
Preservation as one of its Goals for FY 1995-96. One of the objectives included in
the goal was development of standards and approval procedures for golf courses.
This initiative was continued on May 14, 1996, as the Commissioners adopted
Goals for FY 1996-97.
2
Impacts from golf courses generally include a large area of disturbance (removal of
vegetation and grading); pollution of air, water, and soil from long-term use of
fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides; loss of habitat and displacement of wildlife;
erosion and sedimentation; alteration of the microclimate; changes to the visual
environment; and water supply demand for irrigation. The intent of any proposed
standards and review process will be to minimize the immediate and long-term
impacts from the construction,operation and maintenance of new golf courses.
Since the goal was first adopted by the Commissioners in 1995,significant
accomplishments have been made at the national level involving the golf industry
and environmental groups/agencies. Two annual national conferences on Golf and
the Environment have been conducted resulting in the attached set of
environmental principles. Subsequently the principles have been endorsed by
numerous national golf and environmental groups as well as the National
Association of Counties. Environmental Principles for Golf Courses in the
United States focuses on five elements: siting, design, construction,maintenance,
and operation. These principles may be used as a framework for proposing
standards for golf courses and associated uses in Orange County.
Potential appointees to the Golf CART are listed on the attached draft charge.
RECOMMENDATION: The Administration recommends approval of the charge and appointments for the
Golf Course Amendment Review Task Force.
3
Draft 2/29/96
AdWW 15114196
NATURAL RESOURCE PRESERVATION
GOAL: REVIEW"RESOURCE PRESERVATION" AS FUNCTION WITHIN COUNTY
GOVERNMENT AND COMPLETE/DEVELOP DATA AND STANDARDS FOR
PROTECTION OF THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
STATUS REPORT
This initiative consolidates four topics under a single goal.These items include the following:
• Consider establishing "Resource Conservation" as separate division in the Planning Department to
give this function identity and higher profile;
• A request from the Triangle Land Conservancy for funding($10,000)to carry out a Wildlife Corridor Study;
• Completion ofthe Natural Areas Element ofthe Comprehensive Plan;and
• Development of standards and approval procedures for golf courses.
The items above have been discussed at the Commissioners' Goals & Objectives Retreats, recommended by
citizens, and/or initiated by staff in response a specific technical study, e.g., the Natural Areas Inventory. Their,
inclusion under a sine goal is for the purpose of formally incorporating them into the staff work plan.
BACKGROUND&OBJECTIVES.
At its December 10, 1994 Goals & Objectives Retreat, the Board of Commissioners considered the following
items:
• Review "Resource Preservation" as separate fimdion m County government to give it identity and higher
- profile;and
• A request from the Triangle Land Conservancy for funding($10,000)to carry out a Wildlife Corridor Study.
Although some Commissioners felt the"preservation" function was best handled by the Planning Department, a
survey of the potential for advisory board consolidation and/or staff re-organi=cn is proposed. The Board
responded positively to funding the Wildlife Corridor Study.
Two other elements included under this goal are:
• Completion of the Natural Areas Element ofthe Comprehensive Plan;and
• Development of standards and approval procedures for golf courses.
The Natural Areas Element has been included as part of this goal, because it repres®ds a necessary step in
incorporating the findings ofthe inventory of Natural Areas and Wildlife Habitats(1988)into the Comprehensive
Plan. The development of golf course standards and approval procedures has been included as part of this goal,
because it has been recommended by citizens as part of the continuing discussion of open space protection
strategies.
At its December 9,1995 Goals&Objectives Retreat,the Board of Commissioners revised one initiative to
be undertaken as part of this goal.Commissioners Crowther and Gordon are to review al County boards
and commissions to clarify their status as a task force, commission or. board. These boards and
4
commissions will also be reviewed to determine if elimination, consolidation or revision of duties and
responsibilities is needed.In addition,the Planning Department is to evaluate the possibility of establishing
a separate division to give"Resource Conservation'a higher profile.
RESOURCE REQUIREMENTS
The Wildlife Corridor Study is being completed through a FY 1995-96 budget appropriation to the
Triangle Land Conservancy. Completion of the remammg elements of this goal will involve the following
commitment of existing staff resources:
Planning Director Planner II/Landscape Architect
Planner H/Special Projects Planner H/Zoning Enforcement
Planner UGIS Specialist Planner M/Currn t Planning Supervisor
Staff will compile data from time sheets concerning staff hours expended and costs associated with completion of
this goal. Monthly reports will be distributed to County Manager, Planning Board, and Board of Commissioners
outlining monthly/cumulative staff hours and costs assigned to this project.
5
[DRAFT -JUNE 271
CHARGE TO THE GOLF COURSE AMENDMENT REVIEW TASK FORCE
(GOLF CART)
BACKGROUND:
During discussion of the Rural Character Strategies and the University Station Project, citizens
and advisory board members expressed concern over the potential impacts of golf courses,
particularly when allowed as a use of open space required with residential development.
Currently, a golf course is a permitted use in most zoning districts; however, there are no
specific standards for golf courses in the Zoning Ordinance to address impacts to the
environment.
In 1995 the Board of County Commissioners adopted Natural Resource Preservation as one of
its Goals for FY 1995-96. One of the objectives included in the goal was development of
standards and approval procedures for golf courses. This initiative was continued on May 14,
1996, as the Commissioners adopted Goals for FY 1996-97.
Impacts from golf courses generally include a large area of disturbance (removal of vegetation
and grading); pollution of air, water, and soil from long-term use of fertilizers, pesticides, and
herbicides; loss of habitat and displacement of wildlife; erosion and sedimentation; alteration
of the microclimate; changes to the visual environment; and water supply demand for
irrigation. The intent of any proposed standards and review process will be to minimize the
immediate and long-term impacts from the construction, operation and maintenance of new
golf courses.
CHARGE:
To prepare an amendment to the Zoning Ordinance for presentation at the November 25 ,
1996, public hearing to include standards and approval procedures for golf courses and
associated uses.
MEMBERSHIP: (Recommended, appointments to be confirmed)
The task force will include the following members:
• Board of Commissioners Bill Crowther
Stephen Halkiotis
• Orange County Planning Board - Joan Jobsis
Ordinance Review Committee Arnie Katz
Paul Hoecke
Elizabeth Walters
• County Manager John Link
• Local Golf Course Owner/Operator Jim Ray
• The Golf Course Builders Association
of America Phil Arnold
• Golf Course Arch itect/Designers Dan Jewell or Ken Coulter, ASLA
Rick Robbins, ASLA (CONTINUED)
6
• Siena College-Audubon International Institute Dr. Charles Peacock
Dr. Miles (Bud) Smart
• Sierra Club/Triangle Land Conservancy Audrey Booth
• NC Environmental Defense Fund Doug Rader
• Water Resources Committee Don Cox
• Recreation and Parks Dept./RPAC Bob)ones
• Golf Course Superintendent Craig Thompson
Chapel Hill Country Club
��,�����+�` +yr "��al. �' � .t>�'�.,, �#r'� i• "' '� �i�µfl ''6 '" �a Li+ aE'4�'��'7rft.r'�'
`,tq�+7M i�'� .c •' , ti �.Y"+"T'�li,.-',�� „�,'/T'`Ct, tSa,;;f� ,. .s _. '4r }. � ['� + .'�.:ry },:
v197, J1`'y
^iiirS k Y _ 'f
►t i Yl S Y t � . i
rt:KY� kv,,Spt i{ a 0. Sc ".. ,3pk�' 1� v.c.�,r•�c R°r i•'/ �'�'.
3 2 Y, y6 r'�. 1/ �'b� aH."'��G e<';•1�4�Y S "TS U�✓ Yi ?^''sC r,. >� y�
:4. `k..r�.c•c _,y ` '�q ,r K-0 f �� t c'�£ t 7i`r +l` 'f = s, .
-
dt�: ' ,�J�.:,,� ,.cos. �,; �xy�a*+4 :c�, e.'2 =.-c•�#'+�'i5�:?��n ..��`�,''at���t�.� -- �st�.�,Y�',''ra,-~,,��5, i„ W,��i"-�.
"4 �'r-�- t .r � v 2 n � _ rY t .�.i.sfi'r"�'Yy�,t'�js, ��.�,7 �7 +-• "..
'�✓'#rc�:y e x - k+. S.;'�, .r.. � "N.#.�°'�.r s-. �� ^.r - � �?;�+- �;T�{'v?�} S _!`t"F7�: d�' "'` ti�,4� '<!'�,�t ���,v�.
t
",� z
J t,
�' ++ �, 1 .� "''$t re's e�c{.y, � .. i S y. � ���_ 1�• �* �� '`.!
� �... ,�,a;. � 'Kr:.�i �'�c.t`�• vE i x,, r�t s � t� � ;.shy �T-"
�1 �i N,r<'y } t ar ,,:.:•�_ w ;��' t --e,.,-� i j �,,}��.` u�'�r--' 4 s � �d�"+.,r4,.'��.�,sr:�: c"i„ « '/,.
.�,..; �',i h � .:f�•� .Ji '��r 't'' s ., �J n [._S' ;� { F "..s `t�'� S` .lt "�d?
T t'�_S, .y f _ '°rA.�Xa„ tM`[ ?4 ;p`Z ?sf� ..`f' � 11• h°'}'r 4
G .1SF .r.? t' G.. ,.f7 1 i '.Y. ' >I •� .T.f �-k.L'r r�
� �t rk dr � s.,rSF y^x..id}r v� t., 2e�z�, ,i "a5 �'�'�-'•d
.y '" P
.��Fr,l;21. ..¢��yk"rM`i t 'ty.��+r rt" �'S<+»fir ty+sk ,,yy..i:`?+hs pL$ F {�'� _r � 7y.�{, �Yl-'s'i'-+'a.♦ / y.
•�'r"""1:,�rk^.,rw�p�+� �. G""7.� +. i `5� ^�.�'5 �fi�#�'�� �,',-\� � � f� -. ;r .
� t�"`r1���r � :3 y � .1 ' 3•��t,�� r jt .*�,rt>• t �.,.�§'�'�{ t� `�'S�
s `
,��S�$���h 'lpdf�:.'r+ �Y'" ��s ,.+'•"�S`7 �Y� ^���P�:4+f� '.�s.� "4�_ t` ' }''��Q.r.l � ' 'S' #r��4`<
4L ' 60 E F� THE ENVIRONMENT
Tf
tN -
•
8
ENVIRONMENTAL PRINCIPLES
FOR GOLF COURSES
IN THE UNITED STATES
March, 1996
9
ENVIRONMENTAL PRINCIPLES
FOR GOLF COURSES IN THE UNITED STATES
I. PREAMBLE
A group of leading golf and environmental organizations have jointly
developed a set of principles which seek to produce environmental
excellence in golf course planning and siting, design, construction,
maintenance, and facility operations.
What are the Principles?
These principles are envisioned as a tool of universal value, for national use
under a variety of circumstances. However, it should be up to local
communities, based on local values, and others involved in the regulatory
process, to assess the environmental compatibility of golf courses.
These principles are meant to provide a framework for environmental
responsibility in developing goals for existing courses and for considering
` issues associated with new courses. They are designed to educate and
inform the public and relevant decision makers about environmental
responsibility, and to help set goals for environmental performance.
These principles are voluntary. They are not intended for use in making
judgments about socio-economic issues. These principles assume
regulatory compliance and are designed to provide opportunities to go
beyond that which is required by law.
These principles were developed through a collaborative research and
dialogue process, and represent a consensus of all endorsing organizations.
They represent areas of agreement but do not resolve all environmental
issues related to golf. The dialogue and process is ongoing, as is the
implementation of these principles.
2
10
How Should They Be Used?
Good environmental practice and design is the result of a multitude of
factors and a thorough understanding of how these factors interrelate on a
specific site in a specific locale. The principles are meant to be used as a
guide to making good decisions relative to the planning and siting, design,
construction, maintenance and operation of a golf course. They are
voluntary, and should be interpreted as representing a whole philosophy of
good environmental design and management rather than specific dictates,
each of which must be met in all cases. It is hoped that the principles will
be widely adopted and used to improve the level of environmental
awareness, practice, dialogue, and quality achieved within the game of golf.
For further information you are encouraged to contact any or all of the
following organizations that participated in the development of these
principles. A contact person for each organization is listed in Appendix 1.
American Farmland Trust
American Society of Golf Course Architects
Audubon International
Center for Resource Management
" Friends of the Earth
Golf Course Superintendents Association of America
Golf Digest
National Coalition Against the Misuse of Pesticides
National Wildlife Federation
North Carolina Coastal Federation
Rain Bird - Golf Division
Royal Canadian Golf Association
SENES Oak Ridge, Inc. - Center for Risk Analysis
Sierra Club
United States Environmental Protection Agency
United States Golf Association
See Appendix 2 for those organizations who have, at this publication,
endorsed the principles.
3
11
II. PRECEPTS
The participating organizations are committed to the following basic
precepts which provide a foundation for the environmental principles:
• To enhance local communities ecologically and economically.
• To develop environmentally responsible golf courses that are
economically viable.
• To offer and protect habitat for wildlife and plant species.
• To recognize that every golf course must be developed and managed
with consideration for the unique conditions of the ecosystem of which it
is a part.
• To provide important greenspace benefits.
• To use natural resources efficiently.
• To respect adjacent land use when planning, constructing, maintaining
and operating golf courses.
• To create desirable playing conditions through practices that preserve
environmental quality.
• To support ongoing research to scientifically establish new and better
ways to develop and manage golf courses in harmony with the
environment.
• To document outstanding development and management practices to
promote more widespread implementation of environmentally sound
golf.
• To educate golfers and potential developers about the principles of
environmental responsibility and to promote the understanding that
environmentally sound golf courses are quality golf courses.
4
12 '
III. VOLUNTARY PRINCIPLES FOR PLANNING AND SITING,
DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, MANAGEMENT, FACILITY
OPERATIONS AND WHAT GOLFERS CAN DO TO HELP.
A. PLANNING AND SITING
1. Developers, designers and others involved in golf course
development are encouraged to work closely with local
community groups and regulatory/permitting bodies during
planning and siting and throughout the development process.
For every site, there will be local environmental issues and
conditions that need to be addressed.
2. Site selection is a critical determinant of the environmental
impact of golf courses. A thorough analysis of the site or sites
under consideration should be completed to evaluate
environmental suitability. It is very important to involve both
the designer and a team of qualified golf and environmental
professionals in this process.
j 3. Based on the site analysis and/or regulatory review process, it
may be determined that some sites are of such environmental
value or sensitivity that they should be avoided. Other less
environmentally sensitive or valuable sites may be more
suitable or even improved by the development of a golf course
if careful design and construction are used to avoid or mitigate
environmental impacts.
4. The presence and extent of some types of sensitive
environments-may render a site unsuitable orlin some cases,
less suitable for golf course development. Examples include,
but are not limited to:
• Wetlands
• Habitat for threatened or endangered plant or animal
species
• Sensitive aquatic habitats
5
13
5. There may be opportunities to restore or enhance
environmentally sensitive areas through golf course
development by establishing buffer zones or by setting
unmaintained or low-maintenance areas aside within the site.
6. Golf course development can be an excellent means of
restoring or rehabilitating previously degraded sites (e.g.,
landfills, quarries and mines). Golf courses are also excellent
treatment systems for effluent water and use of effluent
irrigation is encouraged when it is available, economically
feasible, and agronomically and environmentally acceptable.
6
14
B. D ESI!GN
1. When designing a golf course, it is important to identify
existing ecosystems. Utilizing what nature has provided is
both environmentally and economically wise. Emphasizing the
existing characteristics of the site can help retain natural
resources, allow for efficient maintenance of the course and
will likely reduce permitting and site development costs.
2. A site analysis and feasibility study should be conducted by
experienced professionals. The identification of
environmentally sensitive areas and other natural resources is
important so that a design can be achieved that carefully
balances environmental factors, playability, and aesthetics.
3. Cooperative planning and informational sessions with
community representatives, environmental groups and
regulatory agencies should be part of the initial design phase.
Early input from these groups is very important to the
development and approval process. This dialogue and
exchange of information should continue even after the course
is completed.
4. Native and/or naturalized vegetation should be retained or
replanted when appropriate in areas that are not in play. In
playing areas, designers should select grasses that are best
adapted to the local environmental conditions to provide the
necessary characteristics of playability yet permit the use of
environmentally sustainable maintenance techniques.
5. Emphasis should be placed upon the design of irrigation,
drainage and retention systems that provide for efficient use of
water and the protection of water quality. Drainage and
stormwater retention systems should, when possible, be
incorporated in the design as features of the course to help
provide for both the short and long term irrigation needs of the
maintained turf and the unmaintained areas of the course.
15
6. Water reuse strategies for irrigation should be utilized when
economically feasible and environmentally and agronomically
acceptable. It is important that recycled water meets applicable
health and environmental standards and that special
consideration be given to water quality issues and adequate
buffer zones. Water reuse may not be feasible on some sites
that drain into high quality wetlands or sensitive surface
waters. Suitable soils, climatic conditions, groundwater
hydrology, vegetative cover, adequate storage for treated
effluent and other factors will all influence the feasibility of
water reuse.
7. Buffer zones or other protective measures should be
maintained and/or created, if appropriate, to protect high
quality surface water resources or environmentally sensitive
areas. The design and placement of buffer zones will vary
based on the water quality classifications of the surface waters
being incorporated into the course. Regulatory agencies and
environmental groups can assist in the planning of buffer
zones.
r 8. Design the course with sustainable maintenance in mind. The
design should incorporate Integrated Plant Management and
resource conservation strategies that are environmentally
responsible, efficient, and cost effective. Integrated Plant
Management includes integrated pest management and
emphasizes plant nutrition and overall plant health.
9. The design of the course should enhance and protect special
environmental resource areas and when present, improve or
-revive previously degraded areas within the site through the
use of plants that are well adapted to the region. Seek
opportunities to create and/or preserve habitat areas that
enhance the area's ecosystem.
8
16
C. CONSTRUCTION
1. Use only qualified contractors who are experienced in the
special requirements of golf course construction.
2. Develop and implement strategies to effectively control
sediment, minimize the loss of topsoil, protect water resources,
and reduce disruption to wildlife, plant species and designated
environmental resource areas.
3. Schedule construction and turf establishment to allow for the
most efficient progress of the work while optimizing
environmental conservation and resource management.
4. Retain a qualified golf course superintendent/project manager
early in the design and construction process(es) to integrate
sustainable maintenance practices in the development,
maintenance and operation of the course.
9
17
D. MAEMNANCE
PLANT PROTECTION AND NUTRITION
1. Employ the principles of Integrated Plant Management (IPM),
a system that relies on a combination of common sense
practices of preventing and controlling pests (e.g., weeds,
diseases, insects) in which monitoring is utilized to identify
pests, damage thresholds are considered, all possible
management options are evaluated and selected control(s) are
implemented. IPM involves a series of steps in the decision-
making process:
a. Through regular monitoring and record keeping, identify the
pest problem, analyze the conditions causing it, and determine
the damage threshold level below which the pest can be
tolerated.
b. Devise ways to change conditions to prevent or discourage
recurrence of the problem. Examples include: utilizing
r improved (e.g., drought resistant, pest resistant) turfgrass
varieties, modifying microclimate conditions, or changing
cultural practice management programs.
c. If damage thresholds are met, select the combination of control
strategies to suppress the pest populations with minimal
environmental impact, to avoid surpassing threshold limits.
Control measures include biological, cultural, physical,
mechanical, and chemical methods. Biological control
methods must be environmentally sound and should be_. _
properly screened and tested before implementation.
Non-chemical control measures should focus on practices such
as the introduction of natural pest enemies (e.g., parasites and
predators), utilizing syringing techniques, improving air
movement, soil aerification techniques, and mechanical traps.
10
18
The selection of chemical control strategies should be utilized
only when other strategies are inadequate.
When chemical and nutrient products need to be applied the
following practices should be utilized:
2. Always read and follow label directions when using any plant
protectant products. Strive to treat problems at the proper time
and under the proper conditions to maximize effectiveness with
minimal environmental impact. Spot treatments may provide
early, effective control of problems before damage thresholds
are reached.
3. Store and handle all pest control and nutrient products in a
manner that minimizes worker exposure and/or the potential
for point or non-point source pollution. Employ proper
chemical storage practices and use suitable personal protective
equipment and handling techniques.
4. Use nutrient products and practices that reduce the potential for
contamination of ground and surface water. Strategies include:
use of slow-release fertilizers, selected organic products, and/or
fertigation.
5. Test and monitor soil conditions regularly and modify practices
accordingly. Choose nutrient products and time applications to
meet, not exceed, the needs of the turfgrass.
6. All plant protectant products should only be applied by or
under the supervision of a trained, licensed applicator or as
_ _. _ dictated-by law.
7. Maintain excellence in the continuing education of applicators
(including state licensing, professional association training and
IPM certification). Training for non-English speaking
applicators should be provided in the worker's native language.
i
19
8. Facilities should inform golfers and guests about golf course
chemical applications. Common methods include permanent
signs on the first and tenth tee boxes and/or notices posted in
golf shops and locker rooms.
12
20
MAINTENANCE (continued)
WATER USAGE
1. Use native, naturalized or specialized drought-tolerant plant
materials wherever possible. For areas in play (greens, tees and
fairways), using plant materials that are: well-adapted to local
environmental conditions; can be efficiently managed; and
provide the desired playing characteristics.
2. Plan irrigation patterns and/or program irrigation control
systems to meet the needs of the plant materials in order to
minimize overwatering. When feasible, use modern irrigation
technologies that provide highly efficient water usage. Inspect
systems regularly for leaks and monitor water usage.
3. Water at appropriate times to minimize evaporation and reduce
the potential for disease.
4. Consider converting to effluent irrigation systems when
available, economically feasible and agronomically and
environmentally acceptable.
5. Manage water use effectively to prevent unnecessary depletion
of local water resources.
13
21
MAINTENANCE (continued)
WASTE MANAGEMENT
1. Leave grass clippings and other organic materials in place
whenever agronomically possible. If clippings are removed,
compost and, if possible, recycle them.
2. Dispose of chemical rinsate in a manner that will not increase
the potential for point or non-point source pollution. Methods
include rinsate recycling or"spraying out" diluted compound
in previously untreated areas.
3. Dispose of chemical packaging according to label directions
(e.g., triple rinsing, recycling or returning to manufacturer).
4. Other waste products, such as used motor oil, electric batteries
and unused solvents, should be recycled or disposed of
according to the law and available community disposal
techniques.
5. Seek to reduce waste by purchasing products that minimize
unnecessary packaging.
14
22
MAINTENANCE (continued)
WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT
1. Habitat for wildlife species that help control pests (e.g., bats,
bluebirds, purple martins, etc.) should be protected. Additional
habitat for these beneficial species should be created whenever
feasible and environmentally desirable.
2. Manage habitat to maintain healthy populations of wildlife and
aquatic species.
3. Species such as skunks, non-migratory Canada geese, and deer,
when they become damaging, should be managed through non-
harmful means whenever possible. Non-harmful control
methods could include dogs, noisemakers, repellents, and
trapping and removal. Managed hunting may be appropriate
where legal and safe.
15
23
E. FACILITY OPERATIONS
1. Facilities should conduct an environmental assessment in order
to develop and implement an overall environmental policy
and/or long-range plan that reflects or expands upon these
principles.
2. Maintain ongoing records to measure and document progress
towards environmental improvement.
3. The environmentally responsible practices adopted for the
maintenance of the golf course should extend to all areas of the
overall facility grounds.
4. Facilities should adopt practices and technologies that conserve
natural resources, including water and energy.
5. Facilities should develop and initiate comprehensive programs
for recycling, reuse and waste reduction.
6. Facilities should properly store and dispose of solvents,
cleaning materials, paints and other potentially hazardous
substances.
7. Facilities are urged to join programs that help to foster
effective environmental management and policies.
8. Facilities should take active steps to educate golfers, neighbors
and the general public about their environmental policies and
practices.
16
24
F. WHAT GOLFERS CAN DO TO HELP
The American golf community is dedicated to preserving the game's
treasured links to nature. As a result, golf courses are now being
developed, designed and managed more responsibly than ever before.
However, we who play the game also have a responsibility to help
ensure that golf remains compatible with nature and that our courses
are well-managed and in harmony with the environment.
As golfers we should:
1. Recognize that golf courses are managed land areas that should
complement the natural environment.
2. Respect designated environmentally sensitive areas within the
course.
3. Accept the natural limitations and variations of turfgrass plants
growing under conditions that protect environmental resources
(e.g., brown patches, thinning, loss of color).
4. Support golf course management decisions that protect or
enhance the environment and encourage the development of
environmental conservation plans.
5. Support maintenance practices that protect wildlife and natural
habitat.
6. Encourage maintenance practices that promote the long-range
health of the turf and support environmental objectives. Such
practices include aerification, reduced fertilization, limited play
on sensitive turf areas, reduced watering, etc.
7. Commit to long-range conservation efforts (e.g., efficient water
use, Integrated Plant Management, etc.) on the golf course and
at home.
17
25
8. Educate others about the benefits of environmentally
responsible golf course management.
9. Support research and education programs that expand our
understanding of the relationship between golf and the
environment.
10. Take pride in our environmentally responsible courses.
is
x
26
Appendix 1
The "Environmental Principles for Golf Courses in the United States" were
developed through a collaborative research and dialogue process managed
and facilitated by the Center for Resource Management. The following
individuals participated in this process and can be contacted for further
information.
1. American Farmland Trust
Ed Thompson, Jr.
1920 N Street, NW, #400
Washington, DC 20036
202-659-5170
2. American Society of Golf Course Architects
Bill Love
PO Box 510
College Park, MD 20741
302-345-1510
K Mike Hurdzan, Ph.D.
1270 Old Henderson Road
Columbus, OH 43220
614-457-9955
3. Audubon International
Ron Dodson
46 Rarick Road
Selkirk, NY 12158
518-767-9051 -_--
19
27
4. Center for Resource Management
Paul Parker
1104 East Ashton Avenue, #210
Salt Lake City, UT 84106
801-466-3600
Meredith Miller
1410 Grant Street, C307
Denver, CO 80203
303-832-6855
5. Friends of the Earth
Courtney Cuff
1025 Vermont Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20005
202-783-7400, ext. 207
6. Golf Course Superintendents Association of America
Joe O'Brien
1421 Research Park Drive
` Lawrence, KS 66049
913-841-2240
Pat Jones
1421 Research Park Drive
Lawrence, KS 66049
913-832-4435
7. Golf Digest
Andy Nusbaum� - - - -
5520 Park Avenue
Trumbull, CT 06611
203-373-7127
20
28
8. National Coalition Against the Misuse of Pesticides
Jay Feldman
701 E Street, SE, #200
Washington, DC 20003
202-543-5450
9. National Wildlife Federation
Sharon Newsome
529 14th Street, NW, #452
Washington, DC 20045
202-233-9533
10. North Carolina Coastal Federation
Todd Miller
3609 Highway 24
Newport, NC 28570
919-393-8185
11. Rain Bird - Golf Division
r Eric Bescoby
145 N. Grand Avenue
Glendora, CA 91741
818-812-3649
12. Royal Canadian Golf Association
Teri Yamada
1333 Dorval Drive
Oakville, Ontario L6J4Z3 Canada
905-849-9700
13. SENES Oak Ridge, Inc. - Center for Risk Analysis
Steve Bartell
102 Donnor Drive
Oak Ridge, TN 37830
615-483-6111
21
29
14. Sierra Club
Mark Massara
1642 Great Highway
San Francisco, CA 94122
415-665-7008
15. United States Environmental Protection Agency
Phil Oshida
401 M Street, SW (4502F)
Washington, DC 20460
202-260-6045
Anne Leslie
401 M Street (7501 W)
Washington, DC 20460
703-308-8727
16. United States Golf Association
Kimberly Erusha, Ph.D.
PO Box 708
Far Hills, NJ 07931
908-234-2300
22
30
Appendix 2
The following organizations have, at the time of publication,* endorsed the
"Environmental Principles for Golf Courses in the United States."
American Society of Golf Course Architects
Arizona Golf Association
Audubon International
Center for Resource Management
Club Managers Association of America
Friends of the Earth
Golf Course Builders Association of America
Golf Course Superintendents Association of America
Ladies Professional Golf Association
National Club Association
National Coalition Against the Misuse of Pesticides
National Golf Foundation
National Wildlife Federation
North Carolina Coastal Federation
Pamlico-Tar River Foundation
Save the Bay
Southern Environmental Law Center
United States Environmental Protection Agency
United States Golf Association
*March 1996. Contact the Center for Resource Management at
801-466-3600 for a current list of endorsing organizations.
23
31
NACONational Association of Counties
July 30, 1996
Ms. Emily Cameron
Planning Department
Orange County
P.O. Box 8181
Hillsborough, NC 27278
Dear Ms. Cameron:
Enclosed please find a copy of the"Environmental Principles for Golf Courses in
the United States." I enjoyed discussing your ideas for using this document to meet
zoning needs in Orange County. Since NACo is an official sponsor of the principles
document, we are very interested in working with counties to implement these principles.
Please keep in touch with me as you further define your effort. I look forward to further
discussing how NACo's Coastal Watershed Management Project may be able to offer you
some support.
As I described to you, NACo officially endorsed the priniciples document
following the recommendation of NACo's Coastal Watershed Advisory Committee. The
Coastal Watershed Advisory Committee advises NACo's Coastal Watershed Management
Project which is funded under a cooperative agreement with the US Environmental
Protection Agency(EPA. Elected officials have a large stake in the health of watersheds,
particularly when declining water quality, loss of fisheries habitat or restricted public
access threaten their communities' quality of life.
The goals of the Coastal Watershed Management Project are to build awareness of
coastal issues and provide technical assistance to coastal counties. To facilitate these
goals,NACo leadership established the Coastal Watershed Advisory Committee,
composed of elected and appointed county officials from the Environment, Energy, and
Land Use Steering Committee and representatives from state associations of counties. To
assist counties,NACo will:
• Develop a network to promote local government coastal initiatives;
• Provide technical assistance such as coastal protection training;
• Produce publications, fact sheets, and articles on coastal issues and programs;
• Serve as a feedback mechanism between county officials and federal agencies
on coastal matters;
• Facilitate information exchange and dialogue among county officials, federal,
regional and state agencies, NGOs and professional associations involved in
coastal issues.
For more information, enclosed please find:
• "Watershed Management and Sustainable Development in Coastal Counties,"
Report by NACo's Coastal Watershed Advisory Committee, January, 1996;
440 First Street,NW
Washington,OC20001-1080
2021393-6116
Fax 2021393-2630
32
• "Coastal Watersheds Are Important To Counties,"article in County
Environmental Quarterly, Spring, 1496; and
• "NACo Participates in"Greening"of Golf Courses," article in County News,
April 15, 1996.
Please call(202)942-4225 or write me with any questions and comments. I look
forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
4� L—'.
Abby Friedman
Coastal Watershed Managennent
Project Coordinator
Enclosures
�'v w
W
/V6
fVVA
tic
R ab
gq IAA
I d ZOO6tt9616 'ON Xdd 9NINNd7d,IZNf1OOHJNdHO YId 6Z: I1 IlHJ 96-e -9(lv
✓\.. VI ..VU......J ilY.0 u..V...0 jlYpl., a...........u... ... ..I.. .YIU ♦i_.J..• •••.• ..s11�. J Yi\r Ji+�i.il JI.♦ i1! L,IAirJ
} use of the Internet by individual ofHollywood's biggest stars,Eliza- County, Nev., took a light-hearted thaltennott,rr..figra
elected officials has been rare, to beth Taylor and Montgomery Clift, approach to a sheriff s work. this igrl,
date. played lead roles in the film Law enforcement officials,how-
For those interested in surfing "Raintree County.- ever, haven't captured all of the as the basic platform
the information superhighway to Several other movies have men- glamour. Viewers of "Mayberry formation services.
view these sites,Talen's home page tioned counties in their titles, e.g., R.F.D." will certainly remember NACohasestablisi
may be found at:http://www.iserv. "Macon County Line,"`Moonshine Howard Sprague,the county clerk. Wide Web site. This
net/-talenj/.Moore's home page is County Express,"and"Nightmare in Obviously,being in a television rently located at hit
accessed by using: httpJ/www.az Badham County."On a lighter note, show about a county and its offi- ing to the wil
stamet.conV-edmoore. one will find"The Cockeyed Cow- cials, i.e., "The Dukes of Hazzard ing to the address h
Recent release of the movie"City boys of Calico County" and "Hot (County),"taught at least one per- naco.org within the
Hall"drew the public's attention to Summer in Barefoot County." son about government.Ben Jones, information the s
municipal government.Moreover, More than 40 years ago,coun- formercostarof`"TheDukes,"made rently availabbll e . ar
it piqued the curiosity of the re- ties were a part of the growing the jump from Hazzard County to user at no charge.
search staff regarding county medium of television. They the U.S.House of Representatives. NACo currently is
government's treatment by the film played a major role in the setting (Research News was written by the offerings of sever
industry. of"County Fair,"a daytime vari- Sharon Lawrence,research direc- service providers and
Last year, counties obviously ety show set at a county fair.Bert tor.) a NA a NACo site.site. near fu
Unlike the arranges
County Services News SpaceWorks, this ne
in the service provider will NACo Participates to service s then
to members. As then
Bess services becc
G reen i n '� of Golf Courses readily available and l
i'
slue,there will be a re(
for NACo to play a ro
Golf and the Environment,a na- Superintendents Association of ing Internet access to 1
tional effort to bring together the golf America,American Society ofGolf field.
industry and environmental commu- Course Architects, United States NACo believes thz
' nity,recently released a publication Golf Association, Golf Course tion in the Internet acc
titled Environmental Principles for Builders Association and the Na- line services industri
Golf Courses in the United States, l tional Golf Foundation. suit in better values fc
during the project's second annual ` Also: the Ladies Professional in the coming months
r- ! meeting in March,in Pinehurst,N.C. _... _.. Golf Association;National Club As- be achieved by NAC
The environmental principles sociation;American Junior GolfAs- any cooperative purch
were developed over the past year i sociation, Inc.; National Wildlife Our relationship w
through a consensus-building pro- i Federation;and the North Carolina Works,the origina I I
cess facilitated b the Center for Re- Coastal Federation.
y the forum-based
source Management. Environmen- Others include:the Pamlico-Tar launched in 1995,is s
tal issues addressed by the principles River Foundation, Friends of the but the focus of the
include the siting,planning,design, Earth,Save the Bay,National Coa- ship is changing.
management and operation of golf privatecotuse construction and man- lition Against the Misuse of Pesti- SpaceWorks curre:
courses. agementas they impact the surround- cides,Southern Environmental Law access to the Internet c
Charlie Hunsicker, ecosystems ing neighborhood and watershed en- Center and Audubon International. on-line service. It h,-
i manager for the Manatee County, vironmenW'Hunsickercommented. The EPA also was a major par- NACo's attention t
{ Fla.public works department,and a The principles, Hunsicker says, ticipant and sponsor of this effort. InfoRamp account he
i member of NACo's Coastal Water• are intended to provide a framework To receive a copy of Environ- not made aware of Sp.
shed Advisory Committee, repro- for environmentaC responsibility in mental PrinciplesforGolf Courses. intention to change
sented NACo at the Pinehurst meet- developing goals for existing golf in the United States, or for more basis and process for
ing, courses and for considering issues information on the Golf and the centSpaceWorksinvc
Hunsicker knows well how envi- associated with new courses. Environment Project, call Paul a change in the billin
ronmantal issues associated with golf "The Environmental Principles Parker or Nancy Nelson at the Cen- and cycle forInfoRar
courses affect counties and munici- should be praised not only for their ter for Resources Management at NACorecommend
palities. universal applicability,but also rec- 801/466-3600. For more informs- ties investigate their
In Manatee and Sarasotacounties ognized for the consensus-building tion on NACo's Coastal Watershed Internet access option:
alone there are 60golfcourses cover. process that resulted in remarkable Management Project,call or email a vendor that offers t
ing 7,500 acres of land.Nationwide; cooperation between traditionally Abby Friedman at 202/942-4225 or value,
municipalitiesoperamZ489coutses. diverse interests,"he added. abbyf@spaceworks.com. To assist in this proc
'%ocalgovernments will always have The following environmental (County Services News was writ- plans to distribute a wt
a direct role in the management of and golf industry organizations have ten by Abby Friedman, research assist counties in ct
public golf courses and the review of endorsed the principles:Golf Course associate.)
ca ex �Je_ws