A sustainable approach to golf facility management is not a short-term program, but rather a continuously evolving way of doing business. In the first phase of the program, The Environmental Institute for Golf will focus on the following goals:

Our Goals

Establish baseline information

In 2009, GCSAA's Golf Course Environmental Profile was completed, which is the first centralized study to document environmental features and practices on golf courses. The profile will serve as the tool to measure and report data for the golf course industry. It will indicate change in the future and provide the basis for education and resource development.

Best Management Practices

Voluntary, industry-specific Best Management Practices (BMPs) criteria will be developed that will serve as the foundation for golf facilities to implement change and operate in a manner of continual improvement. Learn more about the collaborative working groups that are participating in this project.

Tools and Resources

A set of tools/resources will be provided that will include a variety of programs, systems, and services for golf facilities to evaluate performance, and foster continual improvement.

Awards and Recognition

Awards will be created that recognize sustainable performance based upon recognized BMPs and program criteria. The awards and additional communications will position golf facilities as sustainability leaders in their communities. Through partnerships with sponsors and inclusion in national media, the sustainability efforts of golf facilities will reach a wide and varied audience.