We all recognize that an empty can or bottle is essentially worth ten cents here in Michigan. And, this economic reality has greatly encouraged Michiganders to recycle. But, when there is not such a clear-cut, direct economic relationship,
it is more difficult to implement such strategies. It would be great if superintendents could simply load up there grass clippings every week, and take them to Kroger, put them in a machine, and out comes some cash that can be taken back to the board or owner to show them the direct economic benefit of recycling.
Unfortunately, the economic benefits of recycling on a golf course are not that direct – although they are just as beneficial.
There are many places on a golf course where recycling can take place effectively, including composting, materials, and oils.
Every golf course produces a large quantity of vegetation refuse every year, whether it is grass clippings, leaves or tree branches, which
are often discarded into the nearest woods or into the “bone yard.” Ironically, the same golf courses purchase fertilizer, topdressing and other materials to help the vegetation on the golf course remain vibrant and healthy. As most course superintendents recognize, composting can play an integral role in lessoning the need for the purchase of fertilizer. The idea of composting is not new. But, there are recent studies and new programs that have enabled golf courses to utilize their compost in place of peat moss, topdressing and as fertilizer. The methodologies for how to best apply these principles are getting more cost effective and practical. As the research continues in the sustainable reuse of compost, golf courses need to be at the forefront.
A second place to recycle on a golf course is by utilizing existing materials on the site when replacing items on the golf course. Although this concept is easier to implement on new construction golf projects, this can still be effective on existing facilities. For example, if completing extensive tree removal or trimming, the golf course
can create fences from the recycled wood, versus carting the lumber off site, only to turn around and buy a pre-made, plastic fence. Another place to look for recycling opportunities is when rocks are encountered. Instead of burying or disposing, utilize the rock as part of the design aesthetic. We have used rock effectively as curbing on cart paths, and when bigger boulders are present, as benches at the teeing areas. It just takes a little creativity to look at a material that was meant to be dumped, and turn it into something useable and practical.
A third, and more complex, recycle opportunity is the use of cooking oils in the clubhouse or restaurant. Although the technology is as not as simple as some make it seem, recycling cooking oils for use as fuel in the maintenance machinery is getting easier to implement. Because it takes a substantial amount of cooking oil to create useable amounts of fuel, this opportunity is most effective at larger resorts and facilities. There are now niche companies that can work with facilities, often in combination with one another, to make this sustainable oil recycling concept fit within specific parameters.
There are a myriad of different ways in which to recycle on a golf course. And, the more a golf course can reuse and recycle, the more sustainable the golf facility will be. If only we could only find a way to recycle golfers best swings – all would be perfect.
Paul Albanese, ASGCA is a principal with Albanese Golf Architecture & Construction Management. They have an office in Plymouth, Michigan and are currently working in seven countries on small and large projects.
