Ähtärin Golf

Notable Observations

• Flower Meadows Across Out-of-Play Areas Many previously mown areas have been converted into flower meadows. These areas now provide habitat for pollinators, butterflies and birds while adding to the natural character of the course.
• Continuous-Growth Forest Management Forest management has shifted from commercial forestry to a continuous-growth approach, where trees of different ages coexist. Dead wood and fallen trees are also retained to support birds and insects.
• Extensive Bird and Wildlife Habitat More than 80 bird species have been identified on site, including nesting common kestrel and Eurasian oystercatcher. Almost 200 nesting boxes have been installed, while the forests also support deer, with elk and fox frequently seen.
• Hybrid and Robotic Mowing Two hybrid mowers have recently been acquired, while two robotic mowers were tested during the summer. These technologies are intended to improve resource efficiency and reduce fossil fuel use.
• Targeted Irrigation Management Irrigation is concentrated on greens and tee boxes using sector sprinklers and programme controls. A handheld soil-moisture sensor is actively used to support irrigation planning.
• Low-Chemical Turf Management The club follows an integrated pest management approach, with chemicals used only when strictly necessary. Soil testing, organic and semi-organic products, mechanical maintenance and careful disease monitoring support this approach.
• Exceptional Volunteer Involvement Volunteering plays a major role in the club, with club management and many golfing activities run by volunteers. This strong volunteer culture supports both daily operations and wider community activity.
• Community Access and Charity Support The clubhouse café is open to everyone, while local residents use the course for walking and skiing outside the golf season. The club also hosts a Women’s Bank charity competition supporting women’s entrepreneurship in developing countries.

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“The golf club is carefully maintaining the site, which features a varied landscape rich in wildlife. Many out-of-play areas have been naturalised and now provide habitat for numerous bird species. Deer, moose and fox can be seen in the forests. Minimal use of chemicals helps to support the wildlife. Hybrid and robotic mowers and efficient irrigation system improve resource efficiency. Many of the club activities are run by volunteers. I'm looking forward to seeing the results of robotic mower testing, updated rescue plan and the establishment of sustainability and environmental communication and dialogue with golfers and other stakeholders.”

Pentti Viluksela (GEO accredited independent verifier)