Magazine - Golfpark Nuolen Leads GEO Certification in Switzerland

By Press Release in Golf on 3rd Feb 2010 16:00

The Golf Environment Organisation is delighted to recognise Golfpark Nuolen as the first GEO Certified golf club in Switzerland. With a proud record of environmental performance, achieving GEO’s award is further confirmation that both the Golfpark and Superintendent Steven Tierney are at the forefront of sustainable golf course management.

An active gravel pit that began its transformation into golf course eleven years ago, Golfpark Nuolen will be extended to 27 holes by 2018. Set in a popular recreation area for the people of Zurich and the Schywz Kanton, the course averages over 40,000 rounds in its nine-month season.

Golf course superintendent Steven Tierney has been involved in the project since ground was broken in 1997. A three-time recipient of GCSAA (Golf Course Superintendents Association of America) international environmental awards, Steven is now proud to have achieved long-term accreditation:

“It’s important for modern greenkeepers to seek recognition for their management practices and publicly represent their social and environmental responsibility. There are many awards and accolades available in the industry, but GEO Certification is the most rigorous.

“Our goal is to manage Golfpark Nuolen to the highest international standards and we’re proud to have achieved this recognition. The golf course, facilities and associated nature trails will be enjoyed by golfers, local schools and community groups for many years to come.”

Nuolen Director of Golf, Artur Baselgia believes golf provides an excellent solution for transitioning degraded landscapes into valued community resources:

“One of the advantages of developing industrial sites is that they are often well connected to existing communities. As well as sustaining local jobs, golf can provide improved access to greenspace whilst improving environmental quality.

“As the Golfpark continues its transformation into an ecologically valuable resource, so our management practices will continue to improve. It’s a priority for our parent company to ensure the legacy of industry in Nuolen gives something back to people and the planet.”

GEO Accredited Verifier David Bily was impressed by the playing quality delivered by Steven Tierney’s team considering their exceptionally low chemical and fertiliser use:

“Golfpark Nuolen minimise inputs through an optimised use of mechanical practices. Tolerance for disease-control on greens is 10% and fairways 20%. Although some years have seen extensive snow mould damage in spring and the problem is treated exclusively with dew removal, verticutting and topdressing. Fertiliser inputs are also kept to a minimum and in the last three years the club has recorded continual decrease in application rates.

“A 90% recycled rate has been achieved on-site with stations around the clubhouse and maintenance area receiving separated PET, aluminium, metals, glass, paper and cardboard. All material from the golf course including grass clippings, cores and leaves are recycled/composted and reintroduced to the site.”

John C. Storjohann, General Secretary of the Association Suisse de Golf (ASG) is pleased to see the management team at Golfpark Nuolen achieve international recognition for their progressive sustainability programme:

“It’s important for golf facilities across Switzerland not only to operate in a socially and environmentally sustainable manner, but to credibly and transparently represent their management activities.

“Whether concerning planned or existing facilities, stakeholders including government, environmental NGOs and local communities want to be assured that golf courses are doing their bit for the environment. GEO’s rigorous and well crafted programme is a valuable tool for golf in Switzerland, and Golfpark Nuolen are to be commended for their pioneering success.”

The GEO Certification and Verification Reports for Golfpark Nuolen can be read here: http://www.golfenvironment.org/certification/participating-facilities/CH/143

Read more articles in Golf, by Press Release or from February 2010.