PALM DESERT, Calif. -- The H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation is pleased to announce that its Classic Club golf course has been designated as a "Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary" through the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses, an Audubon International Program.
"This process has been a learning experience that was both challenging and very rewarding for everyone involved," says Geoff Sanders, the Classic Club's Director of Agronomy. "This certification was made possible by the hard work of many volunteers, including dedicated students from neighboring Xavier College Preparatory High School. It is just another example of our staff and ownership's commitment to the environment and to charitable purposes."
To reach certification, a golf course must demonstrate that they are maintaining a high degree of quality in a number of areas including Environmental Planning, Wildlife & Habitat Management, Outreach and Education, Chemical Use Reduction and Safety, Water Conservation and Water Quality Management.
"The Classic Club has shown a strong commitment to its environmental program and they are to be commended for their efforts to provide a sanctuary for wildlife on the golf course property," says Jim Sluiter, Staff Ecologist for the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Programs.
The Classic Club is the 56th course in California and the 762nd in the world to receive such an honor.
The Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses, endorsed by the United States Golf Association, provides information and guidance to help golf courses preserve and enhance wildlife habitat and protect natural resources.
Audubon International provides programs for businesses, schools, communities, and new developments.For more information, contact Audubon International, (518) 767-9051; acsp@auduboninternational.org; or visit their website at www.auduboninternational.org.
The H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation is a private foundation that generously supports educational and other charitable projects. Since 1988, the Berger Foundation has contributed over $300 million to charities throughout Southern California and the United States.
Troon Golf is the world's largest golf management company, overseeing operations at properties located in 31 states and 26 countries. Additionally, 39 Troon Golf facilities enjoy a Top 100 ranking by national or international publications. Troon Golf properties include Oneida Golf and Country Club, Green Bay, Wis.; Troon North Golf Club, Scottsdale, Ariz.; The Golf Club at Equinox, Manchester Village, Vt.; Classic Club, Palm Desert, Calif.; One&Only Ocean Club, Paradise Island, Bahamas; and The Grove, London, England.
CONTACTS:
Jim Sluiter, Staff Ecologist
(518) 767-9051, Ext. 116
sluiter@auduboninternational.org
Cara Van Dijk
(760) 668-2424 cell
cara@cvstrat.com
