Submitted by Ontario’s Niagara Parks Commission
(A Brief Note from Niagara At Large publisher Doug Draper – With so much pressure for more lower-density, urban sprawl along the Niagara River corridor, including weakening wetland protection designations in the watershed f the upper Niagara River, it is good to learn that an international group as prestigious the Audubon Society has recognized a golf course the Niagara Parks Commission owns and operates along the upper river as a healthy enough environment to also serve as a wildlife sanctuary.
Congratulations to the NPC, with a mandate going back more than a century to protect and preserve green space along the Ontario side of the Niagara River , for earning this international designation.)
NIAGARA FALLS, Ontario, February 5th, 2014 – The Niagara Parks Commission’s (NPC) Legends on the Niagara Golf Complex has achieved
Ontario’s Niagara Parks Commission receives inernational recognition for environmental and wildlife habitat stewardship at its Legends On The Niagara golf complex. Photo courtesy of NPC
designation as a “Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary,” through the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses. Golf Course Superintendent, Tom Newton led the effort to obtain this prestigious designation on the property and is also being recognized for Environmental Stewardship by Audubon International.
To reach certification, a course must demonstrate that they are maintaining a high degree of environmental quality in a number of areas. These categories include: Environmental Planning, Wildlife & Habitat Management, Outreach and Education, Chemical Use Reduction and Safety, Water Conservation, and Water Quality Management. NPC’s Legends on the Niagara is the 52nd golf course in Ontario and the 876th in the world to be designated as an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary.
According to Laura Karosic, Associate Director of Environmental Programs at Audubon International, “Legends on the Niagara has shown a strong commitment to its environmental program. The staff is to be commended for their efforts in providing a sanctuary for wildlife on the Legends property.”
“Since 2004, The Niagara Parks Commission has been pleased to work with Audubon International to achieve this prestigious designation,” stated NPC Chair, Janice Thomson. “While Legends on the Niagara has become renowned for its challenging play, today we celebrate the tireless devotion of our staff in pursuing this highly sought-after certification and commitment to environmental stewardship and preservation.”
In accepting this designation, Superintendent Newton remarked, “At Legends on the Niagara we take great pride in providing a golf facility that is maintained to the highest possible standards, and reflects the Commission’s belief in environmental protection.”
About Legends on the Niagara
Legends on the Niagara is owned by The Niagara Parks Commission. NPC is committed to a vision of Ontario’s Niagara Parks as one that Preserves a rich heritage, Conserves natural wonders, and Inspires people world-wide. Founded in 1885, The Niagara Parks Commission is an Operational Enterprise Agency of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport. Its mission is to protect the natural and cultural heritage along the Niagara River for the enjoyment of visitors while maintaining financial self-sufficiency.
About Audubon International
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, New Zealand, and Southeast Asia have achieved certification in the program.
Audubon International is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Troy, NY. In addition to golf courses, Audubon International also provides programs for businesses, schools, communities, and new developments with the purpose of delivering high-quality environmental education and facilitating the sustainable management of natural resources. For more information, call Audubon International at (518) 767-9051 or visit www.auduboninternational.org
(Niagara At Large invites you to share your views on this post. A reminder that we only post comments by individuals who share their first and last name with them.)
