PuulaGolf

Notable Observations

• Ongoing Evaluation of Naturalisation Opportunities There is ongoing evaluation and discussion of opportunities for naturalisation across the course. Areas of managed turf are reviewed to identify where changes could be made.
• Course Managed to Support Biodiversity The site is built and managed in a way that supports wildlife and biodiversity. Staff demonstrate a good understanding of the nature and landscape values of the site.
• No At-Risk Species Affected by Management No protected or rare species are identified as being at risk from course operations. Protection needs, including those related to incoming surface water, have been evaluated and discussed.
• Irrigation Used Only When Needed Course conditions are monitored daily, and irrigation is applied only when required. Water use is managed to maintain balance across turf, fertiliser and pesticide inputs.
• Mechanical Maintenance Prioritised Maintenance is carried out using mechanical methods as much as possible. The team emphasises the use of well-maintained and sharp tools as part of this approach.
• Recycling and Reuse Embedded in Operations Reuse and recycling are standard practice across the site. Players are encouraged to recycle, and general waste bins are provided on the course.
• Local Student Involvement in Habitat Work Local students and pupils have participated in building and placing artificial bird nests on the course. This reflects collaboration between the course and the local community.
• Public Access and Seasonal Use of the Site Non-golfers can access the course during the off-season. Activities such as walking and foraging are possible on site.

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“Puula Golf is a good example of an organisation that quietly gets on with doing the right things when it comes to environmental responsibility. In fact, this approach is so embedded that activities such as engaging local pupils and students in course work were almost overlooked because they are seen as ‘no big deal’. The greenkeeping team are skilled professionals who understand how to manage costs and water use while maintaining a high-quality course. There are also innovative solutions in place, such as the system for collecting balls on the range, which supports reuse and recycling principles. Course staff are continually looking for the next small improvement and are also involving players in that process. The golf course is a strong example of sustainable practice, incorporating measures such as drought tolerant grasses, irrigation with TSE, a turf reduction programme and efforts to reduce single use plastics. The greenkeeping team takes its responsibility for the environment on and around the course very seriously. I look forward to seeing the results of the renewable energy project, along with the development and implementation of a communication plan, including events and publications for golfers and the wider community.”

Kari Mattila (GEO accredited independent verifier)