Communication can reveal a hidden truth
Communication is one of the most powerful tools for inspiring change and building understanding.
On golf courses, where the focus is often assumed to be only on turf and playability, communication can reveal a hidden truth: these landscapes can be thriving wildlife habitats and important contributors to biodiversity.
By sharing information effectively, we can help golfers, clubs, and the wider public appreciate the ecological value of golf courses and understand the opportunities they offer for nature.
Why communication matters in conservation
Golf courses often host a surprising variety of species - birds, insects, mammals, and plants - that benefit from careful habitat management.
Yet, without effective communication, these benefits may go unnoticed. Whether through conversation, visual storytelling, or public engagement, each interaction is a chance to:
- Change perceptions of golf’s environmental impact
- Showcase conservation successes
- Inspire others to support biodiversity-friendly practices
Ways to communicate conservation work
Face-to-face conversations
Speaking directly with golfers, club members, or visitors can be one of the most impactful ways to share ideas and enthusiasm. Seeing wildlife through someone else’s eyes - whether it’s a bat skimming over a pond or a dragonfly basking in the sun - can spark lasting interest.
Word of mouth
A single conversation can ripple outwards, reaching friends, family, and the community. Personal recommendations and shared enthusiasm often spread faster than formal campaigns.
Nature walks
Guided walks on the course allow people to experience biodiversity first-hand. Encounters with butterflies, moths, birds, or wildflowers create powerful, memorable moments.
Public events
Talks at local schools, community groups, and wildlife organisations can introduce
new audiences to the conservation potential of golf courses. Informal gatherings - such as moth nights or bird-ringing demonstrations - provide hands-on experiences that bring conservation to life.
Media outreach
Radio, television, and online interviews can reach thousands at once. Coverage that shows both the recreational and ecological value of golf courses helps the public form a balanced, informed view.
Written communication
Newsletters, local press articles, and contributions to wildlife publications can highlight ongoing projects and seasonal sightings. On-course noticeboards and member updates keep the golfing community engaged.
Social media
Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter) can amplify conservation messages far beyond the local area. Regular posts with photographs, short videos, and quick updates make conservation part of the everyday conversation.
Visual storytelling
Photographs, infographics, and videos help people visualise the habitats and species being protected. They can be used in talks, articles, websites, and displays to reinforce the message.
Websites and blogs
An online hub for conservation updates, project results, and success stories can serve as a long-term record and a source of inspiration for other courses.
As an example, in 2021, I launched www.theconservationbuddha.co.uk to share my passion for wildlife and conservation on golf courses. It began as a hub for my work, photographs, and blogs, showing that golf courses can be great for wildlife.
It has since grown to include guest blogs, conservation stories from across the UK, details about the two courses where I’ve worked, and information on services I offer - from talks to survey work. The site has now received over 13,000 views from around the world and has been a fantastic way to connect with like-minded people.
Top Tips for Communicating
- Know your audience – Tailor your message to fit their interests and background.
- Keep it simple – Avoid jargon and explain concepts clearly.
- Use stories, not just facts – Facts inform, but stories inspire action.
- Show, don’t just tell – Use images, videos, and live examples to make it real.
- Be consistent – Maintain regular updates to keep momentum going.
- Encourage interaction – Invite questions and experiences from others.
- Stay positive – Share solutions and success stories to inspire hope.