Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program (ACSP)
As they provide much of the open space in urban areas, golf courses are called on to address the environmental concerns related to the impacts of water consumption and chemical use on local water sources, wildlife species, and the native habitats.
To address these concerns, Audubon International, in collaboration with the United States Golf Association (USGA) has developed the ACSP to advise and certify golf courses in environmental stewardship practices. The program helps tailor an environmental plan unique to the setting and the goal of each course. Certification as a member of the ACSP requires planning and demonstration of:
- Environmental Planning
- Wildlife Habitat Management
- Chemical Use Reduction and Safety
- Water Conservation
- Water Quality Management
- Outreach and Education
Benefits
The ACSP provides a win-win situation for the game of golf and for the environment. Some of the benefits that ACSP members report include:
- Enhanced Habitat and Natural Beauty
- Financial Savings on Course Maintenance
- Reduction of Water Use and the Need for Expensive Chemicals
- Improved Water Quality
- Promotes Environmental Stewardship and Awareness
- Attracts a Variety of Birds and Butterflies with Native Plantings
All this and we are still able to maintain Royal Oaks as a superior golf course!
ACSP & Royal Oaks Country Club
Royal Oaks has been a member of the ACSP since 1989, certified in 1997. The program has included activities of interest to all family members. Bird ID and feeding by staff and members, annual Father's Day Fishing Derby and installing and monitoring bird nesting boxes.
Membership
Membership in the ACSP includes more than 2,200 courses in all fifty states, Canada, and around the world. In Washington & Oregon, 30 courses are certified with ACSP. Nearby courses in the Portland area include:
- The Oregon Golf Club
- Columbia Edgewater C.C.
- Tualatin C.C.
- Pumpkin Ridge
- Heron Lakes
- Stone Creek G.C.
Current Projects
We have several projects currently underway at Royal Oaks. Please take note of these projects while you're playing. They include:
Bird Cam
For viewing a family of birds building their nest to the fledgling of the young.
Shoreline Habitat Restoration
Planting native plants along Burnt Bridge Creek that are essential for supporting fish in creeks and streams.
Please join us. We could use your help in making ROCC a better place!
Call the Golf Course Maintenance Facility at (360) 256-1530
