Celtic Manor Resort - The Roman Road and The Montgomerie

Notable Observations

• 40% of Property Actively Managed for Biodiversity Nearly half the site is out-of-play and includes woodland, hedgerows, rough grassland, riverbanks, and scrub. These areas are maintained with a focus on enhancing habitats for pollinators, amphibians, birds, and other wildlife.
• Annual Monitoring of Key Species Birds, bees, and butterflies are surveyed annually, and findings are recorded to track changes over time. This helps inform ecological decisions and supports the resort’s long-term biodiversity goals.
• Integrated Sustainability Strategy Celtic Manor operates under a sustainability strategy that links its golf operations with resort-wide environmental goals—ensuring unified action across golf, hospitality, and events.
• Use of Biological Pest Control Methods The greenkeeping team is trialling biological solutions, including Bacillus thuringiensis and entomopathogenic nematodes, to manage leatherjackets and grubs—part of a wider integrated pest management (IPM) plan focused on reducing synthetic chemical use.
• Irrigation with Precision Technology Water is abstracted under license from the River Usk. Greens and tees are irrigated using a Toro system and soil moisture sensors to ensure water is applied only when necessary.
• Electric and Hybrid Machinery Electric buggies, hybrid mowers, electric hand tools, and LED lighting are already part of the operation. The resort is actively transitioning its fleet to reduce emissions.
• Greenkeeper Training and Career Pathways The courses have supported dozens of trainees through formal apprenticeships and collaboration with educational bodies—demonstrating a long-standing commitment to workforce development in sustainable turf management.
• Legacy of Community Engagement Volunteers from the 2010 Ryder Cup still support maintenance and events at the courses. The club also welcomes local schools, walking groups, and community charities onto the property, maintaining footpaths and public access.

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“The Championship Golf Courses demonstrate a strong commitment to sustainability and community engagement, establishing a leading example within the industry. A Sustainability and Energy Manager, an Ecology and Environmental Stewardship Manager and a Sustainability Working Group supervise environmentally responsible projects and practices. Sustainability initiatives encompass the installation of over 200 bird and bat boxes, many bug hotels, three wildflower areas, and four Nature Conservation Sites. Additionally, they employ a sustainable irrigation system powered entirely by renewable energy sources. With more than 60,000 rounds of golf played annually, these courses promote health and wellness while supporting local organisations, generating employment opportunities, and advancing charitable initiatives.

Dino Minoli (GEO accredited independent verifier)