Golf Course Architecture - Issue 63, January 2021

51 been known to break its banks during such events. Thankfully though there is never any lasting damage. An issue we used to face prior to the redesign was the constant scouring of the riverbank. However, as part of the renovation, this is something we looked to address and eradicate to prevent further damage. We sodded to protect the banks by using deep rooting fescue on the riverbanks’ tops and introduced native riverbed f lora to stabilise and strengthen the banks further. This has really helped with any erosion problems previously experienced. As a team we are duty bound to respect the watercourse and therefore every precaution is taken to protect water quality. We are all very conscious of our obligations with regards to our interactions with the river and have implemented no spray buffer zones to ensure we protect and preserve its conditions. Over the last five years, we have put a lot of work into a thorough programme to eradicate invasive and destructive species from the riverbanks at Adare Manor, such as hogweed and Japanese knotweed, which can both affect the biodiversity and the amenity value of the river. What environmental benefits does the presence of the river, and other areas of water on the course, bring? Beyond the strategic interplay with the course, and its beautiful aesthetics, the Maigue invites a number of unique benefits, none more so than the biodiversity it encourages and homes. Salmon and brown trout are common sights as one looks over the bridges on the fifth, eleventh, fifteenth and eighteenth holes, but on closer inspection the river is home to particularly rare species including crayfish, freshwater mussels and lamprey eels. No matter how long you have been at Adare, these subtle features are special and endlessly impressive when we do catch a glimpse. Above the water, the Maigue invites many beautiful bird species with the likes of grey herons, cormorants, swans and ducks often sighted when we are out working on the course. Not forgetting the otters, who we are fortunate to share the course with and frequently see playing on the riverbanks. Equally, the water also means that we have a lot of positive interaction with the relevant authorities such as The Office of Public Works, Inland Fisheries Ireland and The Maigue Rivers Trust. The Office of Public Works has a real-time water gauge adjacent to the fifteenth green, which gives us information such as water levels, water temperature and voltages, allowing us access to some expert knowledge and insight to help us protect our environment and create sustainable maintenance programmes too. GCA Photo: Larry Lambrecht/Adare Manor