Audubon International announced veteran golf course superintendent Mark O’Mell has joined the leadership team as director of Signature Sanctuary Certification.
O’Mell, a Class A GCSAA member, brings more than two decades of turf management and golf course maintenance experience to the position. Most recently, he was golf course superintendent at Piñon Hills Golf Course in Farmington, New Mexico. He has also held superintendent or assistant superintendent positions at facilities Michigan, Panama and the U.S. Virgin Islands. He holds a bachelor’s degree in crop and soil science/turf management from Michigan State University.
“Working with Audubon International is the culmination of a career as a superintendent who worked with nature rather than against it,” O’Mell said. “I look forward to working with current and future Signature Sanctuary members to become the best possible environmental stewards they can be.”
Audubon International’s Signature Sanctuary Certification is for new or renovating golf courses, resorts and communities. The program involves comprehensive environmental planning with architects, owners, managers and key stakeholders to ensure sustainable design, construction and long-term management of each property. Its Bronze, Silver and Gold levels include all open space, landscaped areas, and maintenance facilities; Platinum level certification also includes clubhouses, lounges, and lodging.
As director, O’Mell will work with each Signature Sanctuary member’s development team prior to, during and after construction to ensure the property meets and maintains all sustainability requirements. He will also serve as primary point of contact for any inquiries from current, former and prospective members of the Signature Sanctuary Certification, and coordinate with appropriate staff members on the development of program materials as well as marketing, growth, recruitment and communications strategies.
“We are thrilled to add Mark at the helm of our important Signature Sanctuary Certification,” Audubon International CEO Christine Kane said. “He knows the golf course operations and maintenance business inside and out, and literally from the ground up. His expertise and leadership will help ensure the program’s continued growth as we add new members, especially at the elite Platinum level.”
