2019 OGCM CONFERENCE
Architect Panel
Designing for Enhanced Sustainability
By Andrew Krek, Rosedale Golf Club. Photo by Meg Matera Photography
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t the 2019 OGSA conference held that the Blue Mountain Resort, attendees had the opportunity to participate in the Architects Panel featuring Jeff Mingay, Keith Cutten and Ian Andrews. The three architects discussed their perspective on sustainable golf; planning and designing for sustainability and how an architect can benefit the process. The following is a compilation of thoughts and ideas shared by the panel.
What is sustainable golf?
Sustainability considers social, economical and environmental factors. Social: Clubs are created as a hub for socialization and rely on the facilities to maintain a healthy golf community for future generations to enjoy. Economical: A course needs to be financially viable and strive to adhere to an agreed budget. Changing or reducing practices can reduce operating costs. Environmental: The environmental health of a course needs to be maintained, and potentially reduce the demands on resources and the impact to the health of the environment and the community. All three are important and when these three components overlay evenly, sustainability can be achieved.
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How do you design for sustainable golf? Designing for sustainability on a golf course can be approached in two different ways. On a new design it can be built in from the ground up, or it can be created through course renovations/ improvements on an established course. Here are some common ways that sustainability can be achieved: • Focus on Plant Health First and foremost is plant health, the plant is what the game is played on. Making changes that promote a healthier environment will make the plant stronger. The plant needs sun light to make food so making it more available through tree removal allows for sun exposure and improved air movement which is necessary for the gas exchange of the plant and overall disease suppression. Water movement is also very important and should be managed to encourage healthy soils. • Build for the local ecosystem Having and/or introducing the proper turfgrass, tree and plant species allows for greater resilience to environmental challenges that can be met at specific location(s), and can result in less maintenance and management.