Wildlife management on urban golf courses: the case of the Ottawa Hunt and Golf Club

Abstract

Urban development has put increasing pressure on public greenspaces and the local wildlife populations encompassing them. Golf courses are an accessible way for the public to view the natural environment and wildlife within the limits of urban boundaries. The purpose of this thesis is to explore the environmental impacts of golf courses on urban wildlife and the relationship between the public among a few golf courses. Audubon International is an environmental group focused on preserving the natural environment while incorporating the heritage of the game of golf. The Ottawa Hunt and Golf Club is a certified course within this organization and has provided the urban community with multiple initiatives for protecting and promoting wildlife, water quality and conservation through outreach and education opportunities.