From Rough to Refuge: Enhancing Wildlife Habitat on Florida Golf Courses – Five Years of Extension Impact
Extension Education
Bonnie Wells
County Extension Director & Natural Resources Agent III
University of Florida
Kissimmee
Abstract
Urban expansion in Florida continues to place increasing pressure on native habitats and biodiversity; however, golf courses—particularly their out-of-play areas—represent an opportunity for conservation within urban landscapes. Over the past five years, this Extension program partnered with golf course superintendents to implement wildlife-friendly management practices that support biodiversity while maintaining course playability and operational goals. The program combined on-site consultations, habitat planning assistance, demonstration projects, workshops, and statewide Best Management Practices (BMPs) training to help professionals integrate ecological stewardship into daily management. Habitat enhancements included installation of native wildflower plantings such as Heliothis debilis and Asclepias tuberosa to support pollinators, placement of bird nesting structures, and restoration of littoral zones around golf course water bodies to improve shoreline stability and aquatic habitat. The program reached more than 1,100 golf course professionals statewide and produced measurable outcomes. Since 2020, eight participating golf courses achieved certification through the Audubon International Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses. Participating facilities also increased pollinator habitat acreage, improved shoreline vegetation management, and expanded wildlife nesting opportunities, verified through site visits and certification audits. National recognition included a Search for Excellence award and invited educational webinars for the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America. These results demonstrate that golf courses can function as valuable conservation corridors when Extension education aligns ecological stewardship with operational goals.
Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.
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Authors: Bonnie Wells
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Wells, B. County Extension Director & Natural Resources Agent III, UF/IFAS Extension Osceola County, Florida, 34744