How did Winnetka Golf Club’s sustainability efforts receive recognition?


By: March 6, 2025

Winnetka Golf Club has proudly received the esteemed Green to a Tee Award at the recent KemperSports Leadership Conference banquet, highlighting its impressive dedication to environmental sustainability.

This achievement marks a significant milestone, as Winnetka Golf Club is the first facility in KemperSports history to successfully complete all four levels of Green to a Tee certification in just one year, including the notable Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Certification.

This recognition serves as an inspiring example for other facilities striving for sustainability.

Winnetka Golf Club 8th Hole

Green to a Tee is a comprehensive, multi-tiered sustainability initiative designed to assist KemperSports facilities in enhancing environmental stewardship in critical areas, including

  • water conservation,
  • energy efficiency,
  • wildlife habitat protection, and
  • waste reduction.

Winnetka Golf Club’s accomplishments exemplify a profound commitment to environmentally responsible operations and a progressive approach to golf course management.

Among the club’s standout Green to a Tee initiatives are:

  • Water Conservation & Efficiency – Conducting an irrigation audit, implementing hand-watering techniques, and using part-circle irrigation heads to reduce water waste.
  • Energy Reduction – Completing an Energy Audit to identify efficiency opportunities, reducing electricity and natural gas usage, and installing occupancy sensors in low-traffic areas.
  • Integrated Pest Management (IPM) – Utilizing organic fertilizers, employing threshold-based pesticide application, and enhancing habitats for beneficial insects.
  • Wildlife Habitat & Biodiversity – Expanding native grass areas, planting pollinator-friendly flowers, and increasing Audubon bird boxes to support local wildlife.
  • Waste Reduction & Sustainable Operations – Launching a comprehensive recycling program, converting to biodegradable food and beverage materials, and adopting green-certified cleaning products.