TUCSON, Arizona – In a bold step toward ecological restoration and enhanced playability, The Club at Starr Pass recently completed a transformative environmental project. The Club removed invasive species such as Salt Cedar, African Sumac, and Buffel Grass, opening the door for native plants to flourish and local wildlife to thrive.
The focus of the project was to not only restore the natural desert ecosystem but also improve the overall playability and sustainability of the Club’s world-class golf course.
By eliminating non-native species, the Club created space for native vegetation to return, offering critical support for native wildlife. This effort helps protect the region’s biodiversity, allowing local wildlife to grow and thrive in their natural habitat.
“This project marks a significant milestone for us as we work to balance a world-class golf experience with our commitment to preserving the beauty of the desert ecosystem,” said David Loomis, General Manager of The Club at Starr Pass. “By reintroducing native plants, we are restoring the landscape for both our guests and the local wildlife, ensuring that this environment will continue to flourish for years to come.”
The invasive species removal was carried out by a team of environmental specialists in partnership with local conservation experts, ensuring minimal disruption to the natural habitat. The project doubles with the Audubon certified club, and its emphasis on regenerative agriculture.
As part of desert restoration initiative, The Club at Starr Pass introduced Operation Pollinator, a program designed to help golf courses create and maintain pollinator habitats in out-of-play areas. Targeting monarch butterflies, this project will also support other pollinators like bees and hummingbirds. The habitats will feature a variety of Milkweed plants, essential for monarchs, and native wildflower mixes, adding both ecological value and aesthetic appeal to the course.
Operation Pollinator is a step toward preserving local biodiversity while enhancing the beauty of the golf course.
The desert restoration project exemplifies The Club at Starr Pass’ commitment to environmental stewardship, blending sustainability with the beauty of the desert landscape. By restoring native habitats and supporting pollinator populations, the Club is not only enhancing the golf experience but also ensuring that the region’s natural ecosystem thrives for generations to come. The Club at Starr Pass is proud to lead the way in sustainable practices, creating a lasting positive impact on both the environment and the local community.
Troon Golf, the resort and daily-fee division of Troon, manages the golf operations, agronomy, food and beverage, retail, and sales and marketing at The Club at Starr Pass, while Marriott leads resort operations.
For more information on The Club at Starr Pass, visit www.theclubatstarrpass.com.
