Winner - 2009 Minnesota Environmental Leader Award
Minnesota Golf Course Superintendents Association of America

Place - 2010 National Environmental Leader Award
National Golf Course Superintendents Association of America

Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary - Established 1994
First certified golf course in Minnesota

Audubon Sanctuary

One of the unique experiences distinguishing Minnesota Valley Country Club is the result of the course becoming Minnesota's first fully certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Property in 1994. The certification was the result of the Club demonstrating leadership, commitment and high standards to environmental management. Implementation of environmental management programs was required in six key areas relevant to golf course management, including: environmental planning, wildlife management, outreach and education, water conservation, water quality, and chemical use and reduction.

Many naturalized areas of native grasses and wildflowers are managed throughout the course, some in-play, and some out-of-play. A 30-house bluebird trail serves as a model for successful fledging of bluebirds, evidenced by the dozens of bluebirds hatched on the property each golf season. Numerous other birdhouses adorn the property, including well-used wood duck and mallard nesting structures. In addition to a large number of songbirds, golfers regularly see eagles, hawks, egrets, herons, fox, jackrabbit, and deer on the course. Protecting and enhancing the natural environment is a continuing focus at MVCC.

Most importantly, the course staff is dedicated to environmental stewardship of the property. Golf Course Superintendent, Michael Brower, serves as the State Steward of the Audubon Sanctuary Program for golf courses in Minnesota. He and his staff take great pride in protecting and enhancing the environment at Minnesota Valley and ensuring a distinguished golf experience.