The Embassy Suites Greenville Golf Resort in South Carolina will open its renovated golf course, renamed The Preserve at Verdae, at the end of May.

Resort management firm John Q. Hammons has spent US$3 million on the renovation of the Willard Byrd-designed golf course, formerly known as Verdae Greens. The project included the introduction of Miniverde bermudagrass across thecourse, with the intention of reducing pesticides and fertiliser inputs.

“We chose to rename the course to reflect our commitment to preserving the balance between nature and golf,” said Joe Morrissey of John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts. “With this renovation, we are reducing our carbon footprint by planting more natural grasses and landscaping, and preserving and expanding the existing habitats for local wildlife and birds.”

In addition, the renovation reduced intensely maintained acreage by approximately 12 per cent, and course managers hope to achieve a total reduction of 20-25 per cent over the next three years. In the past year the course has reduced fuel consumption by approximately 500 gallons and water usage by approximately six million gallons.

“We have a number of elevation changes and difficult dog-legs that require precision play to small targets. This course is a challenge for golfers of all skill levels,” said director of golf Paul Albert.