08/13/2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – August 2026
CONTACT: Scott Turner, Director of Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program | [email protected]
Manchester Country Club Recognized for Environmental Excellence
MANCHESTER,VERMONT Manchester Country Club has achieved designation as a "Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary" through the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses. Superintendent Sean Monahan led the effort to obtain sanctuary designation on the property. The course is now one of over 900 properties in the world to hold certification from Audubon International.
“Manchester Country Club has shown a strong commitment to its environmental program. They are to be commended for their efforts to provide a sanctuary for wildlife on the golf course property," said Ken Benoit, CEO at Audubon International.
"To reach certification, a course must demonstrate that they are maintaining a high degree of environmental quality in a number of areas," explained Benoit. These categories include Environmental Planning, Wildlife & Habitat Management, Outreach and Education, Chemical Use Reduction and Safety, Water Conservation, and Water Quality Management.
The club’s accomplishments include:
• Producing beneficial green spaces
• Promoting and protecting quality wildlife habitat
• Conducting maintenance practices responsibly
• Ensuring surface water is protected from pollutants.
“Modern golf course agronomic practices work hand in hand with environmental stewardship,” said Monahan. “We have also made significant investments in stormwater management and precision irrigation.”
The Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses, endorsed by the United States Golf Association, provides information and guidance to help golf courses preserve and enhance wildlife habitat and protect natural resources. Golf courses from the United States, Africa, Australia, Canada, Central America, Europe, South America and Asia have achieved certification in the program.
Manchester Country Club is located within the Battenkill Watershed and is proud to steward more than 80 acres of naturalized and protected habitat throughout the property. These areas provide valuable habitat for wildlife, help protect water quality, and contribute to the natural beauty and ecological health of the surrounding landscape. Through thoughtful land management, habitat preservation, and responsible course maintenance practices, Manchester Country Club remains committed to protecting and enhancing the natural resources of the Battenkill Watershed for generations to come.
Audubon International is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Troy, NY. In addition to golf courses, Audubon International also provides programs for businesses, schools, communities, and new developments with the purpose of delivering high-quality environmental education and facilitating the sustainable management of natural resources. For more information, call Audubon International at 1-844-767-9051 or visit www.auduboninternational.org.
