Suburban Kansas City course lauded for environmental efforts

Ironhorse Golf Club in Leawood, Kansas, has retained its designation as a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary through the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses. Ironhorse was first designated as a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary in 2014. After designation, courses go through a recertification process every three years.

Ironhorse Golf Club is one of only nine golf courses in Kansas to hold certification from Audubon International. Golf courses from the United States, Africa, Australia, Central America, Europe, South America and Southeast Asia have also achieved certification in the program.

“Ironhorse has shown a strong commitment to its environmental program,” Audubon International CEO Christine Kane said. “They are to be commended for their efforts to provide a sanctuary for wildlife on the golf course property.”

Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program participation is designed to help course personnel plan, organize, implement and document a comprehensive environmental management program and receive recognition for their efforts.

“Ironhorse Golf Club is very proud to retain our designation as a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary through the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses,” Ironhorse Golf Club general manager Ryan Eckroat said. “Special thank you to Ironhorse superintendent James Kennedy who has spearheaded our certifications.”

Opened in 1995, the Michael Hurdzan-designed course is the only Troon-managed facility in the Kansas City metro area.