Embracing Sustainability: An Interview with Joao Machado, Golf Course Superintendent at Terras da Comporta – Dunas Course, Portugal.
In a recent interview with Joao Machado, the Golf Course Superintendent at Terras da Comporta – Dunas Course, owned by Vanguard Properties shared insights into his journey, the challenges he has faced, and the sustainable practices he has implemented to maintain and enhance the quality of the golf course. He also highlighted the critical role Bernhard grinders have played in maintaining impeccable standards.
Machado’s journey with Terras da Comporta began in 2020 as an advisor and transitioned to a full-time role in October 2023. His deep commitment to environmental sustainability and excellence in golf course maintenance is evident. “It is the project of a lifetime for any superintendent,” he says, reflecting on his role.
Machado’s involvement with Terras da Comporta has been marked by significant milestones and challenges. The project, initiated in 2008 under architect David McLay-Kidd, faced some economic setbacks, but resumed with strength after being bought by Vanguard Properties. Today it stands as one of Europe’s top golf destinations.
“The biggest challenge we face is managing a 100% fescue golf course in southern Europe,” Machado explains. “Maintaining fescue in such a climate requires state-of-the-art irrigation systems and precise moisture management. Fescue needs two to three years to adapt to the environment. We faced disease pressures initially, but by improving our integrated pest management program and optimising irrigation, we have seen significant improvements.”
Sustainability is at the heart of Machado’s philosophy. From the beginning, the project aimed to minimise environmental impact. “Our DNA is sustainability,” he emphasises. “We attempt to save water and maintain the course’s character as a pure links course, which requires it to be hard for the ball to roll properly.” This dedication to sustainability has earned the course recognition as the best golf course in Europe in 2023.
Joao Machado’s dedication to sustainable golf course management has not gone unnoticed. He has been recognised by the Golf Environment Organisation (GEO) as a sustainability champion since 2019. His commitment to sustainability is evident in various aspects of his course management.
The course uses advanced irrigation technology with soil moisture sensors and weather-based controls to optimise water use, ensuring that only necessary amounts are applied, significantly reducing water waste.
IPM strategies are employed to reduce dependence on chemical pesticides. By using biological controls, such as organic fertilisers and treatments. This not only minimises the environmental impact, but also enhances the soil’s microbial activity, promoting stronger and healthier turf. Additionally, regular soil testing ensures that nutrient applications are precisely adapted to the turf’s needs, avoiding over-application.
Machado and his team are dedicated to preserving the natural habitats around the golf course. Areas disturbed during construction are replanted with native vegetation using black sand from the site, which contains seeds of local plants. Non-play areas are allowed to revert to natural conditions, providing habitats for local wildlife and increasing biodiversity.
Waste management protocols ensure that all materials, from clippings to machinery parts, are recycled or disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner.
Machado is also committed to training his team in sustainable practices. “From the moment someone joins our team, they are trained in sustainability,” he explains. This includes expected behaviour on the course, waste management and the use of organic fertilisers, ensuring that every team member contributes to the project’s sustainability goals.
Moreover, community engagement plays a vital role in the project’s success. “Involving the community and supporting local initiatives have been integral to our approach,” Machado highlights. This engagement has not only fostered goodwill but also strengthened the project’s sustainability efforts.
“We aim to be 100% chemical-free,” he declares. “We are already using biological products to improve root health and soil conditions, and we plan to extend these practices to all areas of the course.” He also foresees significant improvements in sustainability within the golf industry. “Legislation and increasing awareness among players and industry stakeholders are driving positive changes,” Machado notes. “In the next decade, I believe most courses in Europe will adopt more environmentally friendly practices.”
Bernhard grinders have also been instrumental in supporting Machado’s efforts to maintain high standards at Terras da Comporta. The precision and efficiency of Bernhard’s semi-automatic grinders have revolutionised the maintenance process. “These grinders save us a tremendous amount of time and improve productivity,” Machado claims. “The operator simply programs the machine, and it handles the rest, allowing our mechanics and greenkeepers to focus on other tasks.”
Sharp, well-maintained blades cut the grass cleanly rather than tearing it, promoting quicker healing and healthier turf. This reduces the need for fertilisers and interventions, aligning with the sustainable management practices implemented by Machado.
The reliability and support from Bernhard has been invaluable. “We haven’t encountered any significant issues with the machines,” Machado says. “Whenever we need assistance, Bernhard’s team is just a call away, ensuring that our equipment remains in top condition. We are not hosting any tournaments yet, but I am sure we will ask for the Bernhard support throughout important events that we host in the future”
Joao Machado and Vanguard Properties’ commitment to sustainable golf course management at Terras da Comporta demonstrates the extraordinary results that can be achieved with innovative practices and a focus on sustainability. Through advanced irrigation systems, organic and biological treatments and the preservation of natural habitats, Terras da Comporta has become a global model for sustainable golf course management. We, as Bernhard and Company are proud to support these initiatives, playing a key role in the course’s success and sustainability.
