It’s time to tee off, score a birdie or even a double-eagle, all for free this May – that is if you happen to be an employee or volunteer of the schools or fire and sheriff’s department.

“This is the first time we have done this,” said Justin Taylor, Orcas Island Golf Course owner. “This year is our 50th anniversary so we thought it would be a fun way to get people involved and a way for us to give back to the community.”

The Orcas Island Golf Course is offering a full membership and discounts on carts and the driving range, seven days a week this month for those who provide education and safety to the island.

Fire Chief Kevin O’Brien said he’ll probably be swinging his 9-iron more this month because of the free membership.

“I was very surprised,” O’Brien said. “It’s very generous, and I like getting out and supporting the Orcas Island Golf Course.”

The free month of golf also includes free play during the Tuesday night scramble and Ladies’ Day on Thursday mornings.

May is the perfect time to get on the course, added Taylor, because the course is starting to dry up and the summer crowd has not yet arrived.

If you are already a member and fall under the above categories, you will receive free cart use for the month. And if you are an educator or with the fire department or law enforcement and don’t play golf, this may be a chance to take your first swing and maybe even hit a hole-in-one.

“It’s a great time to give it a try and get out and walk in the outdoors with the beautiful scenery,” Taylor said.

For info, call 376-4400 or visit www.orcasgolf.com.