How can golf course managers communicate the benefits of pollinator conservation to golfers and stakeholders?

1 Why pollinators matter

Pollinators are animals that transfer pollen from one flower to another, enabling fertilization and seed production. Pollinators include bees, butterflies, moths, beetles, flies, birds, and bats. They pollinate about 75% of all flowering plants, and about 35% of the world's food crops. Pollinators support biodiversity, ecosystem services, and human well-being. They also enhance the aesthetic and recreational value of golf courses, by providing color, fragrance, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

2 How to educate golfers and stakeholders

Golfers and stakeholders may not be aware of the importance and benefits of pollinators, or the challenges they face. You can educate them by providing information and resources on your website, newsletters, social media, signage, and events. You can also showcase your pollinator conservation efforts and achievements, and invite feedback and participation. You can use stories, facts, images, and videos to illustrate the positive impacts of pollinators on your course and beyond. You can also address common myths and concerns, such as the safety and maintenance of pollinator habitats.

3 How to create pollinator habitats

One of the most effective ways to conserve pollinators is to create and maintain diverse and native plant habitats on your golf course. You can choose plants that provide pollen and nectar throughout the season, and that are adapted to your climate and soil conditions. You can also include plants that offer shelter, nesting, and overwintering sites for pollinators. You can create pollinator habitats in various areas of your course, such as out-of-play zones, roughs, buffers, islands, wetlands, and gardens.

4 How to manage pollinator habitats

Pollinator habitats require careful management to ensure their quality and sustainability. You can use practices such as mowing, pruning, weeding, mulching, and watering to maintain the health and diversity of your plant communities. You can also monitor and evaluate your habitats for their pollinator abundance and diversity, and make adjustments as needed. You can also involve your staff, volunteers, and partners in the management and stewardship of your pollinator habitats.

5 How to reduce pesticide impacts

Pesticides can harm pollinators directly or indirectly, by affecting their behavior, reproduction, immunity, and survival. You can reduce the impacts of pesticides on pollinators by following an integrated pest management (IPM) approach. IPM is a strategy that combines biological, cultural, mechanical, and chemical methods to control pests in an environmentally and economically sound way. You can also use pollinator-friendly pesticides, such as those with low toxicity, short residual time, and selective action. You can also apply pesticides at the right time, rate, and place to minimize exposure and drift.

6 How to join the pollinator movement

You are not alone in your efforts to conserve pollinators on your golf course. You can join the pollinator movement by connecting with other golf course managers, organizations, and programs that support pollinator conservation. You can also share your experiences and best practices with your peers and the public. You can also participate in citizen science projects, such as monitoring and reporting pollinator sightings and activities. You can also seek recognition and certification for your pollinator-friendly golf course management.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?