Historic golf course in sensitive environment is first to secure GEO Certified™ ecolabel in the Carolinas.

The first golf club in the Carolinas to achieve the prestigious GEO Certified™ award, Highlands Country Club, has opened a new chapter in a long and proud history of environmental performance.

Speaking on behalf of the Highlands membership, club president Ed Bryant, congratulated the management team on their achievement:

“The members at Highlands share a deep-rooted belief in protecting the stunning natural assets we are privileged to enjoy here. The connection between great golf and a healthy environment is clear to all. Our talented management team is encouraged to explore innovative techniques for eliminating any impacts of golf and maximizing benefits to wildlife. We’re delighted to see their efforts rewarded with this international recognition from the Golf Environment Organization.”

Assistant Superintendent Christian Drake coordinated the club’s drive to secure the GEO Certified™ award:

“We’re very fortunate to be working and playing golf among the scenic waterfalls, rich biodiversity and captivating beauty of the Appalachians. This provides a constant reminder of the responsibility we have to protect and enhance the site, use resources efficiently and generally do as much as we can for the environment.

“For us, it’s important to communicate that golf clubs are walking the walk as well as talking the talk. Achieving the GEO Certified™ ecolabel has both helped to credibly demonstrate our commitment and to identify areas where we can improve our performance before re-certification in three years time.”

View the full GEO Certified™ report from Highlands here.