Callawassie Island has achieved designation as a “Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary” through the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses. Billy Bagwell, Director of Agronomy, led the effort to obtain the sanctuary designation for Callawassie and is recognized by Environmental Stewardship by Audubon International. Callawassie Island is one of 23 golf courses in South Carolina to hold the title of Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary.

“Callawassie Island Club 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 Tara Donadio, Director of Cooperative Sanctuary Programs at Audubon International. “To reach certification, a course must demonstrate that they are maintaining a high degree of environmental quality in a number of areas,” explained Donadio. These categories include: Environmental Planning, Wildlife & Habitat Management, Outreach and Education, Chemical Use Reduction and Safety, Water Conservation, and Water Quality Management.

There are 901 golf courses in the world to hold the title of Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary. Golf courses from the United States, Africa, Australia, Canada, Central America, Europe, New Zealand and Southeast Asia have achieved certification in the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program.

“We are so excited to receive this certification! We are so proud to be a National Wildlife Habitat, and are thrilled to add another environmental-friendly milestone to our portfolio,” said Lindsey Cooler, Communications and Membership Director at Callawassie Island

The legendary Tom Fazio took Callawassie Island’s natural beauty into consideration when he designed the private, award-winning, championship 27-hole course. With the information and guidance provided by the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses and Mr. Bagwell’s continued efforts, Callawassie Island will preserve and enhance wildlife habitats and protect natural resources on its golf courses for years to come. Callawassie Island gives thanks to the Ecology Committee, who helped with the bird counts and lists of wildlife on the island, as well as the community outreach programs that led to the recognition from this certificate.

“For our golf course to get this recognition from the Audubon Society is kind of a thrill,” Billy Bagwell said. “As South Carolina’s first Community Wildlife Habitat, certified by the National Wildlife Federation, we welcome Audubon’s interest and recognition.”

Audubon International is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Troy, NY. In addition to golf courses, Audubon International also provides programs for businesses, schools, communities, and new developments with the purpose of delivering high-quality environmental education and facilitating the sustainable management of natural resources. For more information, call Audubon International at 1-844-767-9051 or visit www.auduboninternational.org.