Heron Glen golf course in Hunterdon County recognized for environmental excellence
Recertified As An ‘Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary
RINGOES, NJ (Hunterdon County) – Hunterdon County’s award-winning Heron Glen golf course has again been recognized for environmental excellence, gaining re-certification as an ‘Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary,’ according to Board of Commissioners Deputy Director Zachary T. Rich.
Rich, the Board’s Parks liaison, said, “High environmental standards are important in all our parks and recreations sites in Hunterdon County, as they serve to maintain our quality of life. Having the golf course meet the high standards established by the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary is a confirmation of that great effort.”
The purpose of the Sanctuary Program is to help course personnel plan, organize, implement, and document a comprehensive environmental management program and receive recognition for their efforts. To reach certification, a course must demonstrate that they are maintaining a high degree of environmental quality in a number of areas including: Environmental Planning, Wildlife & Habitat Management, Outreach and Education, Chemical Use Reduction and Safety, Water Conservation, and Water Quality Management.
“Heron Glen has shown a strong commitment to its environmental program. They are to be commended for their efforts to provide a sanctuary for wildlife on the golf course property,” said Christine Kane, CEO at Audubon International. “I am advised that of the 38,000 golf courses worldwide, Heron Glen is one of only 900 courses in the world to hold certification from Audubon International. The recertification process is performed every three years and since 2015, the golf course has retained its designation as a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary,” Rich said.
The Audubon International Program is dedicated to wildlife conservation, habitat and water quality management, education and outreach and environmentally sustainable practices.
“Heron Glen retaining its designation from the Audubon International Program is proof that the county is committed to the environment, the wildlife habitat and public education. Maintaining a commitment to Audubon’s high standards ensures that the community will be able to enjoy Heron Glen for many generations to come,” Rich said.
Heron Glen has been the recipient of several other notable awards including Golfweek’s Best 2021: “Courses You Can Play,” placing #12 in New Jersey, Golfer’s Choice 2022: “Top 50 U.S. Courses”, rated #16 by Golf Pass, and received 3rd place in the “2022 Best Overall Facility for National Golf Foundation’s Golf Customer Loyalty Award.”
