Monthly Feature Hosted By:
	Anthony L. Williams, CGCS at Marriott’s Stone Mountain Golf Club in Georgia

One of the best first steps in building your environmental program is to begin using native plants wherever possible within your operation. Paul Carter, CGCS really hits the mark with this month’s case study, “Going Native”. Paul reminds us that you only get one chance to make a first impression and one look at his photos will show you that Paul means business.

Through these great photos and a well thought out series of steps Paul documents the development of his native plant project at Bear Trace at Harrison Bay. Pay close attention to the signage Paul used and the connection to his clubhouse display that he used to support Audubon International Green Golfer Pledge drive. These are very creative and create an extra synergy within this case study.

There is also a very detailed plant list complete with growth habits and comments. Paul also gives us some great advice about researching plant choices and nurseries on the internet to save time and expand your resources beyond the property.

I was very impressed with the detail in this case study ranging from the cost of various items to the actual construction specifics on the retaining walls. Paul gives you a complete 360 degree look at why going native is a good environmental practice and the costs involved in making native plantings a reality within your operation.

April's Guest:
	Jim Webb, Director of Golf, Tennessee State Parks

When Paul Carter, CGCS at The Bear Trace at Harrison Bay, first formalized the idea of improving the first tee area on the golf course it was strongly endorsed by Department of Environment and Conservation Commissioner (TDEC), James H. Fyke. Having the ability to improve an area that so obviously needed it and at the same time being able to educate and inspire golfers through the creation of a native planting bed for plants native to Tennessee placed it on the fast track.

Through the leadership of Paul Carter and the staff at The Bear Trace at Harrison Bay it has been possible to correct an unsightly problem, add beauty and functionality as well as draw attention and educate golfers to native plants of Tennessee. With the support of the Iris Fund of the State of Tennessee it was possible to meet our goals of making a good first impression to our guests and the goals of the Iris Fund to promote and showcase the use of native plants.

The Bear Trace at Harrison Bay is a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary. This project allowed us to provide information to our guests about the project, support Audubon’s International Green Golfer Pledge Drive through a display in the clubhouse and provide information and exposure to the Iris Fund and their goal of utilizing native Tennessee plants.

WIN – WIN – WIN - WIN for The Bear Trace at Harrison Bay, TDEC, Iris Fund of Tennessee and Audubon International. Working together to educate and promote a stronger environment.