The National Golf Club of Louisiana is the centerpiece of a new, 600-plus-acre, master-planned residential community.

Managed by Billy Casper Golf, The National Golf Club of Louisiana (The National), Westlake, La., has been designated a “Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary” for its high standards protecting the environment and preserving the natural heritage of golf.

Following the conservation group Audubon International’s approved steps for an environmentally-friendly golf course, The National reduces waste and promotes efficient operations.  Other program results include a reduction of maintenance costs, including insurance premiums, energy, water, pesticides, fertilizer, equipment wear and labor.

In attaining Audubon certification, The National successfully executes ecologically-sound practices in six key areas:  environmental planning, wildlife and habitat management, outreach and education, chemical use reduction, water conservation, and water quality management.

“Working with Audubon International, we have minimized our impact on the environment,” says Graham Kornmeyer, Golf Course Superintendent at The National.  “This allows golfers to enjoy a more natural and lush playing experience.”

The National Golf Club of Louisiana is the centerpiece of a new, 600-plus-acre, master-planned residential community. Designed by Dave Bennett, it is a par-72, 6,946-yard design that features 14 lakes, 80 bunkers and many of western Louisiana’s largest and most challenging greens.

The practice area boasts a one-acre, all-grass driving range; 12,000 square-foot putting area; two 3,000-square-foot short-game areas and 1,500 square feet of bunkers.  From the driving range, golfers take aim at 14 target greens from 50 to 400 yards.  The practice range is open year-round.

BCG oversaw construction and grow-in of the course and now directs course and property maintenance, staffing and training, clubhouse operations, food and beverage, merchandising, golf instruction, marketing and public relations, special events and financial management.