Here at 3 Creek Ranch the environment and preservation or enhancement of the natural resources are not only considered, but also incorporated into all design efforts. The golf course design and construction methods reflect this philosophy. In order to protect the fisheries and ground water supplies, the golf course drainage is captured and treated through a sump/filter system to insure that all possible contaminants are removed. The golf course lakes have been designed with wetland fringes, called "littoral shelves or zones" to filter fertilizers and clean the water as it passes through the lake system. The ground water and Spring Creeks are monitored and sampled then carefully tested by an independent laboratory to ensure that the golf course and surrounding development do not have an impact on these valuable Natural Resources.