The JW Marriott-run Camelback resort in Scottsdale, Arizona, has opened its new-look Ambiente course, a total rebuild of the former Indian Bend layout by architect Jason Straka.

The courseʼs new name, Ambiente, the Spanish word for ʻenvironmentʼ, was chosen to reflect the focus on sustainability adopted during the design and construction process. This focus centres on on water conservation, wildlife habitat creation and a 50 per cent cut in pesticide/fertilizer and fossil fuel use compared to the former course.

The layout of the course includes 100 acres of new native desert and grass areas that features a mix of acacias, jojobas and sagebrush, as well as a collection of both summer and winter desert wildflower mixes. These native areas will require a third less water than Indian Bend. By removing over 100 acres of turfgrass and replacing it with native desert and grass areas, it is hoped that bird inventory, as well as the local mammal population, will increase substantially.

Camelback resort general manager Jim Rose said: “Environmental consciousness has long been a hallmark at Marriott, and we believe Ambiente is a perfect example of the companyʼs commitment to protecting wildlife and natural resources, while continually serving as a leader in eco-friendly business practices.”

The completion of the US$10 million Ambiente golf course culminates a seven-year, US$70 million Marriott renewal project at Camelback. Strakaʼs design has already been recognized by the American Society of Golf Course Architects in its 2013 Design Excellence Recognition Programme. The course extends from 5,538-7,225 yards, and the front tees, designed to support the golf industryʼs efforts to grow the game, have no forced carries at all.