Keeping Sustainability at the Forefront of Greenkeeping
Times are changing for golf courses, as facilities diversify to attract a wider clientele, and greenkeeping practices move with the times; reflecting the need to adapt to our changing climate by choosing more sustainable methods that safeguard the environment.
In the South-West of England one greenkeeper is orchestrating a myriad of changes that reflect the evolution of sport and leisure, and aim to provide an environment that’s more in tune with nature, ensuring both the golf course and wider facility can be enjoyed for generations to come.
As a proud Australian, Andy Grabham has worked at his fair share of golf courses over the last 25 years. With a resume that includes locations from Canberra, Australia to South Carolina, USA; he finally chose to settle permanently in England in 2008. Andy’s first position was at Celtic Manor, then he joined The Players Club as Deputy, before finally starting at Farrington Park, on the edge of Bristol, where he’s been Head Greenkeeper since 2016.
We spoke to Andy about the changing face of golf courses, to discover how he’s incorporating sustainability into long-term planning, and the more immediate and frequent routines.
Can you give us an introduction to Farrington Park?
Farrington Park is set in 200 acres of parkland and countryside with great views of the surrounding land. We’re situated on the outskirts of Bristol, not far from the Mendip hills, in the South West of England.
The golf course offers 27 holes; an 18 hole, and a 9 hole option.
Farrington Park will undergo some major changes from April 2024, as the new owners, 360 Golf, develop their business model to create a more inclusive family environment where golf isn’t the only activity on offer. Additional sports and leisure facilities are planned to include a play area, Eco Cabin accommodation, sports bar, restaurants, and a fitness studio/gym, a top tracer driving range and a new 12 hole golf course (two loops of 6). These are just some of the things that will be created so Farrington Park can appeal to a wider audience.
What are your main sustainability objectives as Greenkeeper?
The focus is to provide a golf course and surrounding environment that’s in tune with nature.
Choosing products and practices that support this are central to all that we do; we use organic fertiliser and non-hazardous chemicals where possible, create habitats for wildlife and choose native grasses and wildflowers to be part of the course.
What actions have been taken to reflect your sustainability goals?
We’re changing the grass species used on the greens to reduce high water and chemical inputs. We’ve already created long/wild grass and flower areas, installed solar panels on the clubhouse and switched to fully electric green mowers. Even the purchase and delivery of the alcohol kegs is now done by electric trucks.
Some of the changes already in action over the past few years have been accelerated after the course was taken over by new owners in 2023. So, this is just the start of the full sustainability mindset we have for Farrington Park.
What are the main challenges when implementing sustainable practices for you as a Greenkeeper?
The biggest challenge we face on the courses today is meeting the demands and expectations of customers, while also educating them why we have to change our practices to become more sustainable.
Talking about things like the chemical control measures we are taking, due to industry restrictions, and explaining how that impacts the playability and presentation of the course at different times throughout the year, is one of the key areas we try to explain.
How do you see sustainability plans rolling out in the future?
Keeping sustainability at the forefront of everyone’s mind is what it’s all about.
We’re planning things like introducing autonomous mowers and choosing electric equipment whenever possible. A new irrigation system will also be installed to maximise water usage and drainage, helping water return to the natural water table underneath, to be recycled.
There are exciting sustainability projects ahead for all involved, and we look forward to working with some of the top specialists in the field.
Do you have any advice for Greenkeepers who are trying to become more sustainable on their courses?
Gain as much knowledge through education as you can. Also, look at as many different golf courses, management styles and locations as possible, to learn from others and find your pathway to the top.
