Golfclub De Hoge Kleij

Notable Observations

• 1,000-Species Landscape The course’s mix of heathland, pine forest and deciduous woodland supports an exceptionally diverse range of wildlife, with around 1,000 species of plants, mosses, mammals, birds, reptiles, insects and bats recorded. Management of habitats and protected species is set out in the club’s Environmental Working Protocol.
• New Heathland and Course Naturalisation Since 2021, approximately one hectare of new heather has been successfully established and now blends into the surrounding landscape. Further naturalisation and the removal of non-native trees are planned as part of the club’s longer-term sustainability strategy.
• Hand-Weeding and Minimal Pesticide Use Poa annua is hand-weeded from greens, while pesticide use is now described as minimal. Regular pest and disease checks, soil testing and low-impact turf practices help maintain playing quality while limiting chemical inputs.
• Natural Rainwater Storage Natural water-retention features have been created around the course to help manage both drought and intense rainfall, with an estimated 200,000 m³ of rainwater retained across the site. Irrigation of approximately 18 hectares has remained at around 20,000–25,000 m³ per year, supported by soil-moisture monitoring.
• Solar-Powered Clubhouse Upgrade The 2024–2025 clubhouse renovation introduced solar panels, low-temperature floor heating, thermal energy storage, improved insulation and a battery of approximately 140 kWh for storing solar-generated electricity. With the exception of the kitchen, the clubhouse is now gas-free.
• Electric Machinery Transition Automatic electric self-driving mowers were being trialled on the fairways during verification. The club intends to replace almost all fuel-powered machinery with electric or hybrid alternatives over time.
• Open Course and School Access The golf course is open to non-members for walking, extending access to the landscape beyond golfers. Local school pupils are also welcomed to the club to experience and learn about golf.
• Camp Amersfoort Heritage and Local Support The club maintains a strong connection with neighbouring Camp Amersfoort, with wartime graves marked on the course and a commemorative plaque displayed in the clubhouse. It also supports local charitable causes, including Foundation Leergeld in Amersfoort, which helps children from families facing financial difficulties.

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“Over the years, Golfclub de Hoge Kleij has shown that “sustainability” is a strong pillar of their strategy. The course has been further naturalized, e.g. 1 hectare of new heathland has been created that blends in perfectly well with the existing natural landscape and the golf course. Also, they invest(ed) in a transition from fossil fuel use to a very sustainable driven clubhouse use to a very sustainable solar energy to a very efficient renewable energy generation. Their way of thinking and handling should be an example for any other golf course.”

Adrie van der Werf (GEO accredited independent verifier)