Golfing Green at Banff Springs

At our Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Course, located in Banff, Alberta, Canada’s first national park, we are committed to providing players with an eco-friendly experience. The Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Course is proud to be designated as an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary. As environmental stewards at both our hotel and golf course, our goal is to implement initiatives that protect the environment and demonstrate our commitment to global sustainability.

Here’s how we’re making our greens even greener, with a full list of our sustainability initiatives on the golf course:

Smarter Water Use: Irrigation System Innovations

Water conservation is one of our top priorities, and we’ve taken major steps to optimize our irrigation systems:

  • Reduced Output: We’ve lowered water usage from irrigation systems, along with reducing fertilizer and fuel needs, particularly in “naturalized and montane grass native areas.”

  • System Renovation: A redesign of the irrigation system in our equipment wash pad area included the installation of a pressure reducer valve—cutting water use by 50% in that area.

  • Improved Soil Technology: By using soil surfactants, we help greens and tee decks retain moisture more efficiently, minimizing overall irrigation needs.

aerial shot of a golf course

Sustainable Turf Care

Maintaining healthy turf doesn’t require excessive chemical use. Here’s how we’re minimizing environmental impact:

  • Targeted Spraying: Instead of blanket chemical applications, we use spot-spraying techniques to limit chemical exposure.

  • Mechanical Weed Control: We favor mechanical methods over herbicides to control weeds.

  • Naturalized Buffers: We’ve integrated naturalized areas around water bodies to protect and strengthen surrounding ecosystems.

Equipment Replacement Program

Reducing emissions and fuel consumption is essential to our sustainability plan:

  • Electric Upgrades: Our gas-powered utility cart fleet is being replaced with electric carts.

  • Battery-Powered Equipment: Grass trimmers and push mower models are being swapped for battery-powered and electric alternatives.

  • Hybrid Mowing Equipment: Fairway Mowers and Triplex Mowers are moving to diesel hybrid models.

 

Bunker Renovation Program

Our bunker renovation project isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about reducing landfill waste and enhancing sustainability:

  • Tire Recycling: Over 6,000+ tires have been saved from the landfill.

  • Eco-Friendly Liners: Shredded tires are bonded with polymer to form a bunker liner that can be recycled instead of discarded.

  • Course-Wide Improvements: In the past year alone, 5 more bunkers have been renovated—bringing the total to 17.

 

By continuing to focus on innovative, sustainable solutions, Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Course is redefining what it means to be an environmentally responsible golf destination. Whether you’re playing a round or simply enjoying the views, you can feel confident knowing that we’re doing our part to preserve this iconic landscape for future generations. Looking for a place to stay after a day on the greens? Discover our best Banff hotel offers.

 

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