Royal Mid-Surrey gains GEO certification

By Alistair October 16, 2022 09:58

Royal Mid-Surrey Golf Club has achieved GEO Certified® recognition for its commitment and efforts to achieve a credible standard for sustainable golf both on and off the two 18-hole courses in Richmond, south-west London.

The club has:

• Enlarged the habitats available to wildlife on and surrounding the two courses by increasing areas of eco rough and linking areas around the courses to create wildlife corridors;

• Retained standing deadwood and forming log piles from fallen trees to provide important habitats for invertebrates;

• Made several bird boxes from recycled pallets to offer nesting options for the 80-plus species of birds observed on the courses;

• Conserved resources such as water and energy, including work undertaken on irrigation systems designed to maintain the courses in optimum playing conditions;

• Appointed a dedicated irrigation technician to conduct a full audit of the original system, resulting in more accurately targeted watering as well as a reduction in water use;

• Replaced sprinkler heads around the tees with new heads to eradicate leaks and wastage;

• Consulted POGO weather station data to adjust irrigation based on moisture, salinity and temperature levels.

Royal Mid-Surrey GC Sustainability Lead Claire Silver holds the GEO certificate along with Head Gardener Darren Watkins, Assistant Greenkeeper Innes Blight, Course Manager Gavin Kinsella & Assistant Greenkeeper Mike Smith

“The commitment shown by our greenkeeping staff in embracing this challenging initiative has been inspiring and it’s great that their dedication, determination and hard work for environmental sustainability across both courses and around the club has now been recognised with this award,” said course manager Gavin Kinsella.

According to Tony Hanson, the GEO accredited independent verifier: “Royal Mid-Surrey demonstrates a range of projects, existing and new, which highlight their commitment to sustainability. Reducing the close mown amenity grass has reduced annual operational costs by around £10,000, increasing the area of natural habitat, enhancing biodiversity and improving the visual appeal of the courses.

“Working with ecology and woodland consultants has informed the plans for further improving and refining the natural environment, which is an enormous asset to the golf club.

“These projects have allowed greater staff involvement and opportunities to gain knowledge and learn new skills.”