Best Management Practices for Freshwater Conservation on Golf Courses

Abstract

Freshwater conservation on golf courses occurs in many areas. Irrigation is the largest water use on a golf course. Proper irrigation design and management is critical to water conservation. It is possible to irrigate golf courses without freshwater. Examples of this technology are desalination and effluent. Wetlands play a vital hydrologic role and must be protected. Cultural practices and turfgrass selection play a role in water conservation. Water quality is in danger from golf course chemicals and erosion. Storm water management is a factor throughout the lifecycle of a golf course. Best management practices allow water conservation in these areas to occur on a broad scale. Case studies show best management practices working today.