Golf estates

• Golf estates extend over a large area and are often developed in natural environments
• This destroys the natural habitats of plant and animal species, or causes fragmentation of habitats, which threatens the survival of indigenous species
• Habitat fragmentation occurs when parts of a large, undisturbed habitat are destroyed and this the habitat is divided into smaller isolated areas
• Exotic grass species, such as kikuyu, are planted on the fairways and replace natural habitats, which leads to a loss of biodiversity
• The use of fertiliser for grass and other plants on the golf estates can have a negative impact on surrounding ecosystems.
• The increase in minerals can promote the growth of invasive plant species, which crowd out indigenous vegetation and destroy their habitats
• Possible actions to reduce the impact of golf estates on habitat destruction:

  • Include conservation areas in the environmental planning of gold courses where indigenous species may thrive
  • Use natural features like ponds, lakes or rivers as part of the design of the course to maintain habitats for local species
  • Environmentally sustainable management of a gold course can increase biodiversity and provide a secure habitat for vulnerable species