| Don Johnson, Superintendent CGCS of Garra de
Leon Golf Course, has led the effort to maintain this course and obtain
sanctuary status. Johnson is also being recognized for his achievement
in Environmental Stewardship by Audubon International.
For a golf course to receive the official Audubon certification, a course
must demonstrate that it is maintaining a high degree of environmental
quality in a number of categories. These categories include:
environmental planning, wildlife and habitat management, outreach and education,
chemical use reduction and safety, water conservation, and water quality
management.
"At Meliá Playa Conchal, we are delighted to receive this certification
as an environmentally friendly golf course," said Richard Pfeifer, Managing
Director. "By receiving this honor, we are showing our continuing
efforts to maintain and preserve Costa Rica's environment and its beauty."
Situated on 2400 lushly landscaped acres in the pristine Guanacaste
Province - named for its majestic Guanacaste trees - Meliá Playa
Conchal emphasizes the major natural elements of the existing environment.
The famed tropical forest surrounds the resort, and the topography is dominated
by hills and valleys providing guests spectacular views of the Pacific,
and the surrounding mountains and volcanoes. With meeting facilities
of more than 5,000 square feet, a lively casino and disco-bar, the challenging
Garra de Leon Golf Course, 11 restaurants and bars, Central America's largest
free-form swimming pool and Costa Rica's most beautiful white-sand beach,
the Meliá |
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Why does Audubon International certify properties
and what does this involve?
Certification is a way for Audubon International to recognize
properties managed by people who demonstrate leadership, commitment, and
high standards of environmental management. In a school setting,
it educates teachers, parents, and students that environmental excellence
can be achieved when everyone works together. In a business or golf
course setting, certification publicizes a strong commitment to environmental
quality that also enhances the financial bottom line. For the individual,
it provides a sense of satisfaction and recognition for a job well done.
In addition, certification is a valuable way for Audubon International
to measure the success of its educational programs and conservation efforts.
Certification for all properties starts with comprehensive
environmental planning. In addition, participants work toward certification
in several categories specific to the type of property registered in the
program.
i. Backyard members achieve certification by completing
projects in the following areas: Wildlife & Habitat Management, Resource
Conservation, and Waste Management.
ii. Golf members achieve certification by completing projects
in the following areas: Wildlife & Habitat Management, Chemical
Use Reduction and Safety, Water Quality Management, Water Conservation,
and Outreach & Education.
iii. Business members achieve certification by completing
projects in the following areas: Wildlife & Habitat Management,
Resource Conservation, Waste Management, and Outreach & Education.
iv. School members achieve certification by completing
projects in the following areas: Wildlife & Habitat Management,
Resource Conservation, Waste Management, and Environmental Education. |
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