History

Originally established as the GCSAA Scholarship and Research Fund in 1955, it became known as The GCSAA Foundation in 1995 after education and historical preservation initiatives were added to its mission. The Foundation's focus was to support four program areas: research, education, scholarship and historical preservation. In February 2003, The Environmental Institute for Golf (The Institute) evolved from The GCSAA Foundation with a new name, mission and focus.

Why a name change?

The changes effective February 1, 2003, came as a result of a year and a half study that analyzed the needs of golf and the strategic focus of The GCSAA Foundation. Qualitative research was gathered through interviews of individuals representing all aspects of the golf industry. The clear and compelling feedback revealed that golf's relationship with the environment is gaining a positive stature; however the momentum must not be allowed to dissipate due to the lack of a long-term vision. Respondents indicated GCSAA's development efforts should be directed to the subject of the environment and the entity assigned that task should be easily identifiable with that cause.

Strategic Planning Session

In July 2003, The Institute held a Strategic Planning Session which brought together leaders from numerous environmental and golf organizations to define and prioritize environmental issues related to golf and the environment. The purpose of the session was to begin the collaborative work to develop a roadmap for The Institute and identify agreed upon topical focus areas that need to be addressed to fulfill the mission of The Institute, which is to strengthen the compatibility of the game of golf with our natural environment.

Five areas of focus

The participants in the Strategic Planning Session identified the important environmental issues facing the golf industry. These issues were aligned into the five primary subject areas listed below. These focus areas have become a means for The Institute to focus its efforts on relevant topics affecting the profession and connect industry, scientific and environmental expertise in a collaborative manner.

• Water Management (water use and water quality)
• Integrated Plant Management
• Wildlife and Habitat Management
• Golf Course Siting, Design and Construction
• Energy and Waste Management

Moving forward

During the fall of 2003, an Environmental Programs Committee and six-issue specific task groups were established in order to begin work in the five areas of focus. Committee and task group work began in 2004 to identify the most productive means to utilize and enhance existing environmental programs and identify new projects to raise the environmental awareness of golf industry professionals, golfers and the non-golfing public.

Learn what Programs and Progress are now in motion from the five areas of focus.