The St Pierre golf resort in Wales has been certified in Environmental Planning by the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary programme. The programme, run by the US-based Audubon International organisation, is designed to help golf operators protect the natural environment around their courses.

“The open space of a golf course is habitat for a variety of wildlife species,” explained Jim Sluiter, Audubon’s staff ecologist. “We welcome St Pierre’s commitment to the environment and to managing the golf course with wildlife in mind.”

Projects that the staff at St Pierre might undertake as part of the programme include placing nesting boxes for cavity-nesting birds such as bluebirds and swallows, using integrated pest management techniques, conserving water, and maintaining food and cover for wildlife.

“The programme benefits both people and wildlife,” said Sluiter. “It's a great way for the managers of developed properties and environmental organisations to work together to become better stewards of land and natural resources.”

After the environmental plan is approved, properties in the programme may apply for certification in Wildlife and Habitat Management, Chemical Use Reduction and Safety, Water Conservation, Water Quality Management, and Outreach and Education by demonstrating that they have met minimum requirements for each category.