When you think of environmental activists rallying public awareness, miniature golf isn’t usually the first idea that comes to mind. While others chain themselves to trees or hijack public land auctions, The Healthy Environment Alliance of Utah (HEAL Utah) has chosen a more laid-back way of spreading its message. For seven years, HEAL Utah has held a family-friendly afternoon featuring miniature golf, door prizes, awards for the best score in each age group and a silent auction.

Originating in the 1990s as a handful of citizens protesting the incineration of chemical weapons in Tooele, the group’s reputation for standing up to predatory corporations quickly grew. In 2001, they formed HEAL Utah, dedicated to battling special interests who target Utah as prime dumping ground for toxic waste. Maybe this event is really just a metaphor for HEAL Utah’s mission: At the end of the day, would you rather lose your balls wading through nuclear refuse, or finishing a delightful game of puttputt?

Seventh Annual HEAL Utah Miniature Golf Classic @ Mulligan’s Golf & Games, 692 W. 10600 South, South Jordan, Saturday, Sept 19, 3–6 p.m. HEALUtah.org