Biodiversity on golf courses

Biodiversity loss and ecosystem collapse are among the biggest threats humanity faces in the next decade. The EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 proposes a more holistic approach to biodiversity policy. Protecting and restoring nature cannot solely be imposed by regulation it must include all relevant actors in the periurban and rural landscape. Golf courses could contribute to the produc­tion of biological diversity, the conservation of na­tural and cultural environments and the retention and expansion of ecosystem services in periurban environments and the cultivated landscape.

In this project five pilot golf courses, Falkenbergs GK, Ullared – Flädje GC, Vinbergs GC, Harabäckens GC, Hofgårds GC, will demonstrate how to improve biodiversity at the golf course by creating habitats for pollinating insects. Four methods will be used to improve the golf areas, (a) burning, mowing, seed mixtures to increase pollen and nectar in edges/roughs, (b) sand treatment and bunkers, (c) protecting old and dead trees, and (d) increase flowering shrubs. Measures and management activities, inventories, evaluation, and reporting will be carried out in collaboration with experts at, Varberg and Falkenberg municipalities, Linné University and external consultants.

The project started early this summer with a kick-off meetings at the five golf clubs respectively. In connection with these meeting the first inventory of plants and inscects have been carried out. 

Read all about it on the project page.

Read the article below about the project so far