087 - Sophie Olejnik

We speak with ecologist Sophie Olejnik about how she moved from an ecology degree and traineeship work on nature reserves into golf course ecology, and how her role now is almost entirely focused on golf. She explains that she first came into the sector through a job at STRI, encouraged by her father, and that her early experience included visiting Montrose with Bob and learning about gorse management, coppicing and fungi. We discuss the ecological value of links and heathland courses, with Sophie saying these sites can support a wide range of habitats because of their structural diversity and different stages of succession. She describes Saunton as a particularly special site, and says that good management there, including dune work and sea buckthorn control, has made the course and surrounding landscape more diverse. We also talk about how golf course ecology has changed. Sophie says biodiversity is now taken much more seriously, and that golf courses are important places to understand, protect and improve habitats. She outlines how species can be monitored through red lists and other conservation lists, and notes that some species are declining while others are shifting their range. A large part of the conversation covers practical ecology work on courses: surveys, bio-blitzes, habitat records, and the use of apps such as Merlin, iRecord and Picture This to support identification and recording. Sophie stresses that apps should be used carefully and checked against other sources, and says it is useful when records are verified by county recorders. We also discuss management timing, especially cut and collect, hedgerow cutting, rough management and the need to avoid disturbing nesting birds. Sophie explains why sand scrapes are used on dunes to restore dynamism, create pioneer habitat and support plants and invertebrates, while still leaving enough rough for shelter and golf playability. Finally, Sophie talks about the role of communication and education, including working with golfers, greenkeepers, natural history groups and the public. She reflects on Bob’s long career and retirement, saying he has been a major mentor and influence on her work, and that continued collaboration will be important for the future. Send us a message if you would like anything discussed on the podcast.