The Preserve at Rathbun Lake has retained its designation as a “Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary” through the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses, an Audubon International program.
The Preserve – located at Honey Creek Resort in Rathbun, Iowa, which Delaware North operates for Iowa’s Department of Natural Resources – was designated as a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary in 2002 and is one of over 900 courses in the world to currently be designated as such.
“The Preserve at Rathbun Lake has shown a strong commitment to its environmental program,” said Christine Kane, CEO of Audubon International. “They are to be commended for preserving the natural heritage of the area by protecting the local watershed and providing a sanctuary for wildlife on the golf course property.”
To reach certification, a course must demonstrate that it is maintaining a high degree of environmental quality in the areas of Environmental Planning, Wildlife & Habitat Management, Outreach and Education, Chemical Use Reduction and Safety, Water Conservation, and Water Quality Management. Courses go through a recertification process every three years.
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, Mexico, and Southeast Asia have achieved certification in the program.