The English Golf Union and English Nature have teamed up to fund a free environmental management advice scheme for golf clubs throughout England.

The scheme, to be delivered by independent advisory and research specialists, STRI, launches this summer. It is specifically designed to raise awareness of ecological issues among English Golf Union affiliated clubs that have had little or no ecological or environmental input to date.

From July, an STRI ecologist will spend a day walking selected courses with greenkeeping staff and club officials before offering professional environmental management advice in a detailed report. Participating clubs will receive ongoing support from STRI for 18 months and a free follow-up visit to assess progress. Applications must be received by June 28.

'Golf courses can provide vital green corridors and oases for wildlife amongst an ever encroaching tide of developed land' says Dr Keith Duff of English Nature. 'Relatively minor changes to course management can deliver huge benefits to wildlife.' Details:+44 (0)1274 565131