Eco-Friendly Golf Course

The Community Environmental Award is presented to a CGCOA facility or management company that demonstrates excellence in the area of Environmental Stewardship.
Award criteria includes:

• Implements practices that reduce use of coveted resources such as water or electricity.
• Has an efficient and convenient recycling program in place for managing waste on course and in the clubhouse (includes bar, restaurant and common areas).
• Encourages on-site natural habitats for birds and other small animals. (i.e. Member of Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program)
• Increases citizen awareness on how golf courses are "friends of the environment" and how golfers can support stewardship efforts. (i.e. course nature tours, recycling waste, educational programs)

At The Crossings, environmental stewardship is at the core of our operations. With water conservation as a top priority, our course utilizes recycled wastewater to meet 97% of its irrigation needs. This water is stored in a 10-million-gallon lined lake that not only serves our irrigation system but also acts as a crucial resource for local fire departments during emergencies. We have embraced advanced water management strategies, including a state-of-the-art irrigation system and moisture meters that precisely monitor water levels, ensuring minimal wastage. Our transition to drought-tolerant landscaping and drip irrigation systems further demonstrates our commitment to conserving water in Southern California's coastal environment.

In addition to water conservation, we have made strides in reducing our carbon footprint by transitioning to electric-powered equipment, including lithium-ion battery-powered golf carts and maintenance equipment. Energy efficiency is also a priority, with LED lighting installed throughout the property and a solar-powered weather station at our maintenance facility. By optimizing workforce efficiency and adopting sustainable practices, The Crossings sets a new standard for eco-friendly golf courses, ensuring that our operations benefit both the environment and our community.

At The Crossings, we prioritize recycling and waste reduction across all operations, from food and beverage services to golf course maintenance. Our food outlets have fully transitioned to 100% biodegradable, plant-based single-use plastics for all to-go items, while the course itself has eliminated small plastic containers in favor of aluminum-based bottles and cans. Water refill stations encourage the use of reusable bottles, and new waste containers throughout the property allow for proper sorting of trash, recyclables, and food waste. We also recycle grass clippings and green waste, using it as mulch to reduce chemical use and promote sustainable landscaping.

Our "Sustainable Food Waste Recycling Program" furthers our commitment by diverting organic waste from landfills and repurposing it into compost and renewable energy. By emphasizing reduce, reuse, repurpose, and recycle principles, the golf course demonstrates a strong commitment to environmental responsibility.  In fact, after a recent inspection by an Environmental Specialist with the City of Carlsbad Environmental Sustainability Department, Sustainable Materials Management Division, the course was nominated for a Sustainability Champion Award due to its efforts with on-course composting, utilizing local compost and mulch, and having compliant waste sorting stations throughout the property. These inspections were found to all be following multiple State of California Assembly and Senate bills, and the City of Carlsbad passed ordinances.

The golf course is positioned within this expansive natural setting and acts as a habitat corridor at night. Less than two miles from the Pacific Ocean, this unique location provides a diverse ecosystem that supports a wide variety of bird species, animals, and reptiles, with a total of 56 sensitive plant and animal species, including the federally protected California gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica). The course's proximity to the nearby Agua Hedionda Lagoon further enhances its ecological significance, creating a vital corridor for local wildlife. The Crossings' approach to course management prioritizes environmental stewardship and adheres to a strict Integrated Pest Management (IPM) plan through both the California Coastal Commission as well as the City of Carlsbad (IPM.) Pesticide use is only incurred when absolutely necessary and when all organic material applications have proven to be ineffective. When needed, pesticide applications are reported to the California Coastal Commission prior to use. While turf varieties and the local climate help to reduce the need to rely on pesticides, the course is committed to being glyphosate-free. 

The Crossings at Carlsbad actively promotes ecosystem restoration through its 2-to-1 Tree Replanting Program, planting two trees for every one removed, ensuring a net gain in tree cover. This initiative supports carbon sequestration, enhances biodiversity, stabilizes soil, and provides habitats for wildlife. To encourage bird populations, the staff humanely traps gophers and offers them as food for resident Red-tailed Hawks. Through community involvement and strategic partnerships, The Crossings is making strides in environmental stewardship and climate resilience. Designed with sustainability in mind, The Crossings preserves half of its 400-acre property for habitat protection, connecting over 1,000 acres of open space. The course features grated bridges that allow sunlight and water to reach protected areas, fostering habitat growth. Additionally, stormwater management systems and buffer zones protect sensitive areas from runoff, ensuring the course remains a sanctuary for wildlife while embodying sustainable golf course management principles.