The Village at Machrihanish Dunes, cited as one of the 'world's most environmentally responsible' golf courses has earned GEO (Golf Environmental Organisation) recertification.
The Village at Machrihanish Dunes, cited as one of the 'world's most environmentally responsible' golf courses has earned GEO (Golf Environmental Organisation) recertification.
The David McLay Kidd-designed Machrihanish Dunes Golf Course was the first 18-hole course in the UK to receive GEO certification in 2010. The recertification process is based on the same comprehensive protocols as the initial certification, but also takes into account improvements made over time by applying specific criteria following recommendations provided at the previous independent on-site verification.
Built on a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) in 2009, Machrihanish Dunes works closely with the Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) to be a careful steward of the course and surrounding land and to protect the many species of flora and fauna that call the area home, including several very rare species of orchids and moths. Machrihanish Dunes has a stringent set of environmental guidelines that are practiced by all employees and vendors. Visiting golfers are also encouraged to respect
these guidelines.
Of the 259 acres that comprise the course, only seven were disturbed in any way during the course construction, and no heavy machinery was used in the creation of the course so as to minimize the impact on the land. The property also adheres to a strict protocol of minimal pesticide use as a last resort, 100% organic fertilizer products, removing weeds manually, and utilizing its herd of Black Hebridean Sheep during the off season to help keep the fescue grasses in the rough in check.
"We've had a spectacular year at Machrihanish Dunes when it comes to recognition for our environmental and service practices. The team at Machrihanish Dunes is a dedicated group whose focus is not just on the customer experience but also on environmental responsibility. On the golf course, that means providing a true links experience that has a minimal impact on the surrounding environment, protecting the area for future generations," said David Southworth, President and CEO of Southworth Development.
Some highlights of Machrihanish Dunes' GEO report: "Continued biodiversity monitoring provides evidence of significant improvement in habitats and wildlife. Adapting well to major challenges, including storm damage, increased visitors and maintaining high quality, low-input playing surfaces."
"Year-on-year reduction in water use reflecting the controlled and limited irrigated areas. Top-down commitment to sustainability providing training and education for over 100 local employees. Community partnerships and management collaboration continues to be a major strength."
Jonathan Smith, chief executive of Golf Environmental Organization said, "Machrihanish Dunes deservedly became the first Scottish golf club to gain GEO Certified in 2010. This successful re-certification demonstrates their continued commitment to the highest standards of sustainable course management in harmony with a stunning protected landscape of great natural and community value."
Machrihanish Dunes' many accolades include runner-up for the GEO Sustainability Award at the annual IAGTO dinner in both 2013 and 2014, the only course in the world to have been so recognised two years running. The resort was also named 'Scotland¹s Best Experience,' by
readers of Bunkered Magazine; 'Resort Experience of the Year,' by members of Golf Tourism Scotland, and 2010 global 'Development of the Year' runner-up from Golf Inc. Machrihanish Dunes is consistently ranked as a Top-100 Course in Britain and Ireland by Golfweek and Golf World.
The resort was also one of a handful that received a visit from the Ryder Cup this fall just prior to the tournament, another indication of Machrihanish Dunes' highly regarded position in the Scottish golf world.
