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Old South Golf Links

Old South Golf Links

Bluffton, United States

Sustainable Golf Pledge

We are committed to social and environmental responsibility, in and through golf.

We recognize the importance of playing our part to protect and restore nature, conserve resources, take climate action and strengthen communities.

We will seek to use our reach to raise awareness and positive action amongst golfers, partners and the wider public.

We will make an important difference, and help golf become a valued leader in sustainability.

GEO Certified

Through becoming GEO Certified we have achieved the most widely regarded and credible sustainability distinction in golf.  The international certification was earned after successfully meeting the industry-standard best practices and demonstrating our commitment to make sustainability of central importance to our golf facility.  We're proud of our social and environmental value - and looking forward to doing even more on our sustainability journey.

2016, 2019, 2022, 2026, for renewal 2029

Notable Observations

  • Expanded Wetland Habitat The club increased its wetland area by 0.25 acres between 2024 and 2025, creating additional habitat space on the property. These wetlands support a wide range of mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians.
  • Wildlife Challenge for Golfers A Wildlife Challenge has been introduced for golfers, encouraging them to identify mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians found on site. This creates a direct connection between golf and local biodiversity.
  • Protected Conservation Easement A conservation easement surrounds much of the property, preserving large natural areas and guiding how the course is managed. The original landowners also plant 8 acres annually to support local turkey and deer populations.
  • Self-Sufficient Water System No potable water is used for course maintenance. All irrigation water is sourced on site, filtered naturally through the ecosystem and processed for reuse.
  • Long-Term Data-Led Irrigation The superintendent has kept rainfall records since 2002 and uses this alongside evapotranspiration rates, soil probes and moisture meter readings to guide irrigation decisions. Seasonal adjustments are made based on turf needs and weather conditions.
  • Full LED Conversion Programme Since first achieving GEO Certification in 2016, all clubhouse lighting has been converted to LED. Around 90% of maintenance building lighting has also been upgraded.
  • National FlingGolf Events Old South offers FlingGolf and recently hosted the 2026 World League FlingGolf Pro Series, including the Lowcountry Open and a Doubles Tournament. The event received national ESPN coverage and helped players qualify for Team USA.
  • 19th Hole Challenge for Wounded Warriors The club runs its “19th Hole Challenge” fundraiser in support of the Wounded Warrior Project. Through this initiative, Old South has raised and donated more than $10,000 to support veterans.
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“Old South Golf Links continues to uphold its commitment to sustainability and being the ‘locals golf course’. While the lean operation can rarely take on new, costly, projects, the leadership team continues to do more with less and innovate with available resources. Despite increasing challenges with the economy, climate, and unknowns of the ever-changing golf industry, the course continues to see an increase in rounds and participation by women. The 19th Hole Challenge, Wine and Nine, and Fling golf tournament are examples of how the facility is impacting golfers and non-golfers nationwide. I look forward to seeing the results of the expanded communications about sustainability efforts via social media to the wider community and visiting golfers.”

Teresa Wade (GEO accredited independent verifier
GEO Certified Reports
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