Yocha Dehe Golf Club recognized for environmental excellence

BROOKS, Calif. – The Yocha Dehe Golf Club has achieved designation as a "Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary" through the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses, an Audubon International program. Kyle Jones, Course Superintendent, has led the effort to obtain sanctuary status on this course and is being recognized for Environmental Stewardship by Audubon International. Yocha Dehe Golf Club is the 51st course in California and the 796thin the world to receive the honor.

"Yocha Dehe Golf Club has shown a strong commitment to its environmental program. They are to be commended for their efforts to provide a sanctuary for wildlife on the golf course property," said Jim Sluiter, Staff Ecologist for the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Programs.

"To reach certification, a course must demonstrate that they are maintaining a high degree of environmental quality in a number of areas," explained Sluiter. These categories include: Environmental Planning, Wildlife & Habitat Management, Outreach and Education, Chemical Use Reduction and Safety, Water Conservation, and Water Quality Management.

“This has truly been a team effort. All of us at Cache Creek Casino Resort, in one way or another strive towards the goal of sustainability. I want to thank everyone that has helped throughout this certification process and look forward to many opportunities ahead in educating and promoting a healthier eco system,” said Jones.

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. Golf courses from the United States, Africa, Australia, Canada, Central America, Europe, and Southeast Asia have also achieved certification in the program.

For more information on golf and the environment, visit www.golfandenvironment.org. In addition to golf courses, Audubon International also provides programs for businesses, schools, communities, and new developments. For additional information contact Audubon International, (518) 767-9051; acsp@auduboninternational.org; or visit their website at www.auduboninternational.org.