The David McLay Kidd-designed Tetherow Golf Club in Bend, Oregon has recently been designated as a Certified Audubon International Signature Sanctuary after meeting strict environmental criteria.  Signature certification is awarded only to new developments which are designed, constructed, and maintained according to Audubon International’s precise planning standards and environmental disciplines. Currently there are only 77 other certified projects in the United States and the Tetherow is the first and only certified Signature Certified development in Oregon.

Tetherow was honored for the commitment to ensuring that environmentally sound philosophies and practices are integrated into nearly every aspect of the course development and on-going agronomic practices that support sustainability and environmental excellence. To achieve this certification, Tetherow designed and implemented a Natural Resource Management Plan (NRMP) that addressed: Wildlife Conservation and Habitat Enhancement, Water Quality Monitoring and Management, Integrated Pest Management, Water Conservation, Energy Efficiency, and Waste Management.  The designation of Signature Certification was awarded based upon the quality and completeness of Tetherow’s NRMP and its implementation. Specific examples of Tetherow’s eco-sensitive practices include but are not limited to:

•    Attention to water conservation through use of appropriate high desert vegetation and a high tech irrigation system that reduces water consumption.

•    Using modern energy efficient products and alternative energy sources, reducing waste and planning for pollution prevention.

•    Designing, implementing and documenting an integrated pest management program (IPM) that emphasizes biological and other natural pest controls over the use of chemical controls.

•    Committing to wildlife protection by maintaining natural habitats, including saving snags and rock piles.

•    The establishment of ‘wildlife corridors’ through the property to aid in the migration of native fauna and fowl.

•    The implementation of a low-water use grassing plan that features fescue grassing for all turfed areas (including tees, fairways, roughs and greens)   

“Not only are the practices and philosophies at Tetherow designed to create a spectacular golf experience for our golfing guests, but most importantly they are designed to do so while minimizing our impact on the environment,” states Tetherow’s superintendent, Chris Condon. “One such example is the grassing plan of low water use fescue. The fescue turf encourages links style play, bump and run shots and low trajectory shot selection…creating a golfing experience that is truly unique at the same time conserving a precious resource,” added Condon.

The Audubon Signature Programs were created for projects in the planning and development stages.  “Through these programs we work with landowners from the design stages through construction and then assist in establishing a maintenance program that focuses on sustainability,” says Nancy E. Richardson, Director, Signature Programs.  The Signature Programs are guided by the Principles for Sustainable Resource Management.

“Congratulations to the entire Tetherow development team as well as Chris Condon and the Tetherow agronomic team,” stated Tom Christy, vice president of construction and agronomy for OB Sports, the management company at Tetherow. “It is a true honor to be the first Signature course in Oregon to receive this certification from Audubon International. This prestigious certification validates Tetherow’s commitment toward environmental awareness and stewardship,” added Christy.

The visually striking Tetherow Golf Club is a par 72, 7298 yard layout that was designed by same the world renowned architect who designed Bandon Dunes and the new Castle Course, the seventh course at St. Andrews, Scotland. Kidd incorporated many of his signature design traits.  Traits that include elements of links-style play such as playing the game along the ground as well as the air, in addition to wispy grasses, ragged bunkers, and gnarly knobs and knolls. The routing takes full advantage of the stunning panoramic views of the Cascade peaks including Three Sisters and Broken Top as well as the rugged high desert terrain.

Located minutes from downtown Bend, Tetherow is Bend’s new golf resort community. The community meanders over 700 acres of stunning high desert terrain and includes 379 homesites, ranging in price from mid $300s to the mid-$700s with acreage of 1/3 acre to over an acre. In addition to custom home sites, Tetherow boasts a striking 18-hole course managed by Scottsdale-based OB Sports and designed by award winning architect David McLay Kidd. The 18,000 square foot Tetherow Clubhouse features a well appointed golf shop, restaurant, members Grille and expansive patios with spectacular views of the golf course and surrounding Deschutes National Forest. Other amenities at Tetherow include a complete practice facility, expansive practice putting greens and short game learning center.  Tetherow is just minutes from the vibrant restaurants, cafes and culture of downtown Bend, and is situated in close vicinity to Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort, miles of hiking and biking trails, world class fly fishing and white water rafting on the "the Deschutes", and more.