The R&A Sustainable Agronomy Service partnership: Praia D’El Rey Marriott Golf & Beach Resort, a flagship of Portuguese golf and a long-standing favourite among international players, has joined forces with The R&A Sustainable Agronomy Service to further strengthen its commitment to deliver performance and conditioning in a sustainable way.
Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and protected natural landscapes, Praia D’El Rey is uniquely positioned to champion the production of high-quality playing surfaces in an environmentally sustainably way. This forward-thinking partnership will bring The R&A’s renowned expertise and innovation in performance agronomy directly to Praia D’El Rey, with a tailored programme designed to enhance playing performance across all areas of course maintenance whilst protecting and enhancing the wider environment.
The R&A Sustainable Agronomy Service partnership
Key objectives of the partnership include improving turf health through soil science, data-driven agronomy to inform maintenance operations, implementing effective water conservation practices and efficient water use, and advising on strategic investments in both machinery and infrastructure – all while maintaining the high-performance turf conditions the resort is renowned for in an environmentally responsible way.
António Ferreira da Silva, Golf Director at Praia D’El Rey, explained: “The guidance from The R&A on how to manage soil infiltration and physical conditioning on our greens is helping us improve year-round performance. Performance measurement, combined with lab analysis of organic matter and physical properties, have been extremely valuable in guiding our decision-making. The R&A has provided a structured and science-led approach that’s elevating the quality of our maintenance while optimizing environmental sustainability.”
Paul Woodham, Head of Agronomy Europe at The R&A, added: “The investments being made – particularly within the maintenance workshop, such as the new grinder, the Vibramaster for improved fairway infiltration, and the autonomous Husqvarna fairway mowers – represent a major step forward. These are the kinds of innovations that embody a sustainable and forward-thinking agronomic strategy.”
“By working with The R&A, we’re not only investing in the long-term health of our course, but also leading the way for what the future of golf in Portugal should look like”, added António Ferreira da Silva. Praia D’El Rey hopes this initiative will inspire clubs across Portugal and beyond to embrace innovation and responsibility in equal measure, while raising standards in turf performance and environmental care.
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