I thought I would put aside the talk of turf for this blog (considering the current weather conditions) and discuss the presence of wildlife on the facility. We are all aware of the many birds, mammals, reptiles and yes even insects, that inhabit the property. The grounds are a sanctuary of sorts in the middle of a large city. Various species live on the grounds year round and many others, as they travel through the river valley, will reside here during the different seasons.
I know the benefits a golf course has for wildlife because I have over 2 decades of first hand experience. I also have a Bachelor of Science in Zoology and am an active outdoors enthusiast so I like to think that helps some. We all love to see deer and hare, the odd fox and birds of prey. Don't take this the wrong way but seeing magpies, crows and even the odd Canada Goose is important to me as well. Nature has a way of balancing the big picture if we stay at arms length. However sometimes it doesn't hurt to get involved and help out at times. The Audobon Cooperative Sanctuary Program is a good example. Our own initiatives or assisting in research programs funded by the City or the U of A are also excellent opportunties to do our part in these "sensitive times".
The coyote study I have mentioned in an earlier blog is ongoing and you will notice a radio collar on the large female of the pair that reside near the 17th hole. As well you may notice the presence of Ringneck Pheasants on the golf course this year. On April 10th, 30 females and 4 male pheasants from a federally regulated game hatchery were released on the golf course as the first of a multi-year initiative organized and funded solely by one of our shareholders to hopefully re-introduce these birds to the river valley where they once thrived not so long ago. The females will be nesting very soon and we would ask our members not to disturb a nest if they come upon one.
This initiative has been discussed with Alberta Fish & Wildlife as well as certain local biologists and it is thought that over the long term, there is a chance of a successful reintroduction of this species despite the presence of a variety of predators. While this initiative is not funded in any way by the Club, we support and encourage the initiative. It is our hope that the members and their guests enjoy seeing the Pheasants throughout the year. Even if you don't see them you will definitely them hear them. The males have a very distinctive squawk, for lack of a better word.
In closing, my sincere thanks to the shareholder that has started a plan the club and possibly anyone that uses the river valley may enjoy in the future.
All for now,
Wade
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