Monthly Feature Hosted By:
	Bob Farren, CGCS, Director of Grounds and Golf Course Management for Pinehurst Resort and Country Club

Our case study this month comes from Jim Cox, CGCS at Arlington Association Golf Course in Richmond, KY. As you read Jim’s story you will discover some beautiful photographs and learn about the wonderful success that Jim and the Arlington Association Committee have enjoyed with their endeavor to gain certification as an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary. Most would agree that it is readily apparent how habitats and the environment can benefit from such environmental management programs. However, there are additional benefits that may not be as noticeable without understanding the big picture and scope of the project.

Jim started out with a vision and set a goal to improve the environment and wildlife habitat at the golf course and its surrounding landscapes. Jim presented a very good case to the committee, when he related the existing course design and conditions and he outlined the advantages and disadvantages of embarking on the program. He addressed the financial aspects, the playability of the course and the impact on the image and reputation the Audubon International certification would offer. Jim also stressed the need to be patient during the process, because the changes in the course’s landscape would be an evolutionary process as opposed to an immediate change.

Jim’s experience reflects many of the less noticeable benefits of becoming involved in programs like the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program. As you enjoy reading the feature you will note the benefits of the self assessment, the need to communicate your ideas and influence the opinions of others. It is apparent that projects like these portray the advantage of involving others; the need for patience and persistence; and culminates with the ultimate goal of enhancing the habitat and environment surrounding the facility.

If you are compelled to share an environmental case study, we would love to hear from you. Your completed case study will earn you 0.25 service points. If you have any questions feel free to contact me at bob.farren@pinehurst.com or Mark Johnson at mjohnson@gcsaa.org.

October's Guest:
	Joellen Zeh, Program Manager, Audubon International

Although Arlington Association’s case study focuses on wildflowers, I found it to be a great example on building a successful environmental program.

First, Superintendent Jim Cox did his homework. He explored the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program and came up with a list of advantages and disadvantages. List in hand, he then approached the Arlington Golf Committee.

Environmental management on the course is usually headed by the superintendent, but it is not a one person task. Jim wanted the support of the committee. One of the listed disadvantages was the question of whether golfers would accept changes. Jim did not make the decision to incorporate habitat into the golf course landscape. The committee made that decision. There is security in numbers.

If you have sat in on one of my classes, you have heard me describe the 5–90–5 rule. Briefly, whatever project you decide to undertake, no matter what it is, 5% of the people will love it, 5% will hate it, and the remaining 90% will be relatively neutral. Getting a portion of the 5% who will love it, or at least commit to it, before you begin gives you a head start on the naysayers. Arm these individuals with information to address questions from the 90%, as Jim did. These preparations can help make your collective voices louder than the remaining 5%.

Jim let people know what he wanted to do, why he wanted to do it, and involved them in the process. Members beyond the Arlington Golf Committee are being educated through the Green Golfer Pledge and a display board. Yes, while this case study highlights a wildlife habitat project, reading between the lines, it is an even better highlight on outreach and education.