We are able to cut down our pesticide and fertiliser use by using more tolerant turf grass species. In addition, by allowing natural habitats to develop and introducing wildflower areas, we are able to use insects as natural pest control.
As a country Estate, we take water consumption very seriously and monitor usage regularly. To cut water usage we manage the greens and select modern-day grass species that tolerate dryer conditions and therefore need less water. So we continue to provide some of the best greens in Hampshire while keeping our greens naturally… well, green.
We cut less too, by leaving extra rough, this means we are using our machinery less which cuts our fuel use and helps to protect the environment.
We allow sheep to graze surrounding land which provides natural organic matter for the soil and by allowing grassland to naturalise, we attract beneficial pollinators and create habitats for wildlife and beneficial insects.
Our members are working with us to create habitats for wild birds on our golf courses. As well as making a ‘birdie’ on the courses, our members are getting together to make and sponsor bird boxes that will be dotted around the area. Having our members involved in the work we do to encourage and maintain bird populations is welcome news to us, and they’ll help us keep an eye on any bird activity too by checking the boxes as they play their round of golf.
The golf courses are proud to work alongside the Partnership’s John Spedan Lewis Trust, a trust set up to monitor, educate and protect the natural world. The Leckford golf courses are home to two of the Trust’s designated nature reserves on the Estate.
