By pairing government funding with local volunteers, Drax Golf Club has delivered a major woodland creation project while keeping the course open, with a 15-year maintenance plan paid for.
A s environmental stewardship becomes an increasingly important part of golf course management, Drax Golf Club in North Yorkshire has demonstrated how collaboration, community engagement and practical planning can deliver meaningful environmental improvements without compromising the golfing experience.The club has recently completed a major woodland creation project, planting more than 5,300 native trees and hedgerow plants throughout the course. Delivered in partnership with The Conservation Volunteers (TCV) and Humber Forest, the initiative has enhanced biodiversity, strengthened wildlife corridors and further supports the club’s long-term sustainability ambitions.
The project builds on Drax Golf Club’s previous recognition as a finalist in the England Golf Sustainability Awards and forms part of an ongoing programme to improve both the course environment and the surrounding landscape.
Delivering a major environmental project
Planting took place primarily across holes three to seven, alongside the creation of a substantial native hedgerow bordering the ninth hole. Species including hawthorn, hazel and dog rose were selected to provide food and habitat for local wildlife, while hundreds of Scots pine trees were introduced to create long-term woodland structure and diversity.
With the golf course remaining open throughout the works, careful planning was essential. Temporary forward tee positions were introduced on selected holes, allowing volunteers to work safely while minimising disruption for members and visitors.
Once planting was complete, the club introduced local rule E-10 to protect the young woodland during its establishment period. Newly planted areas, identified by timber stakes and 120cm tree shelters, are designated as ‘no play zones’, requiring players to take free relief in accordance with rule 16.1f whenever a ball or stance is affected.
The value of partnership
A significant factor in the project’s success was the collaboration between Drax Golf Club, TCV, Humber Forest, local businesses and volunteers.
The project was made possible through funding from the Trees for Climate programme, part of the government’s Nature for Climate Fund, administered by Defra. This funding enabled Drax Golf Club to deliver large-scale tree and hedgerow planting, together with a 15-year establishment and maintenance programme to help ensure the long-term success of the new woodland areas.
Corporate and community support also played a vital role. One volunteering day brought together more than 50 volunteers from TCV and the nearby Nestlé facility, enabling thousands of trees to be planted in a single day. By combining external funding, volunteer expertise and local business support, the project was delivered far more efficiently than would have been possible using the club’s own resources alone.
Beyond the environmental benefits, the initiative has generated strong engagement among members, who have embraced the club’s long-term vision for enhancing biodiversity and the wider landscape.
“The feedback from our members has been incredibly positive,” said Liam Ridgill, Drax Golf Club.
“This project demonstrates what can be achieved when golf clubs work alongside organisations and local businesses. We’ve enhanced the course, improved habitats for wildlife and created something that will benefit both golfers and the wider environment for generations to come.”
Kevin Harrison, chairman of Drax Golf Club, commented: “This isn’t simply about planting trees. It’s about building on the foundation we laid back in 2017, when we first kick-started our wider tree regeneration project. Being recognised as an England Golf Award finalist in 2022 was a proud moment for all our members, but we never intended to stop there. This new venture is the natural next step, ensuring Drax remains at the forefront of sustainable sport for years to come.”
The planting and aftercare will be carried out in collaboration with TCV’s staff and volunteers, ensuring professional care during the establishment phase and the continued growth of the Humber Forest canopy within the club’s grounds.
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