Programs & Progress
The Institute is now directing donor funding to support the following
environmental programs and projects that provide essential golf course
management solutions:
- Golf Course Environmental Profile
The goal of this project
is to collect information on golf course properties including details
about the playing surfaces, natural resources, environmental stewardship
efforts and management practices. GCSAA has contracted the National
Golf Foundation (NGF) to help develop and implement the survey. The
survey is supported in part by a grant from The
Toro Foundation. View a list of the 2007
Advisory Panel Members.
- Edge Database
An online Web-based tool,
EDGE is designed to provide information related
to golf and the environment. It is intended for use by a variety of
audiences, including superintendents, environmentalists, law makers,
golf course owners, golfers and non-golfers who seek information on
environmental issues related to golf facilities. The EDGE web-based
tool is supported in part by a grant from The
Toro Foundation.
- Research
The Institute currently funds nearly 30 agronomic and environmental
research projects. Two key projects being funded in 2006 include:
- The development of an Integrated Pest Management template that
will guide superintendents in the preparation of written IPM plans
for the golf courses they manage. View a list of the 2007 Advisory Panel Members.
- Environmental characteristics of golf course pesticides: A comparison
resource– The goal of this project is to develop an easy-to-use
resource that provides superintendents with information on the environmental
characteristics of pesticides. This resource will help superintendents
with their selection of pesticides. View a list of the 2007
Advisory Panel Members.
- Education
The Institute will continue its focus on advancing new and
existing GCSAA education programs
by integrating key environmental content into the curriculum.
- Webcast Series
The Institute will continue its focus on advancing new
and existing GCSAA education
programs by integrating key environmental content into the curriculum.
The Webcast education series features topics such as: how to conduct
an environmental assessment of a golf property, and innovative recycling
techniques. The Webcast series is part of the e-Learning program
funded through a grant from Syngenta
Professional Products.
- Scholarships
The Institute will continue to fund nearly 60
scholarships to support students pursuing a career in golf course
management/green industry, as well as higher education in general.
- Outreach
The Institute will develop and implement an outreach program
to communicate consistent and targeted messages about golf’s
positive impact on the environment. It will feature components on
the environmental advancements in golf thus far, as well as the
work that is continuing to ensure golf’s long-term compatibility
with the environment.
Environmental compatibility will, of course, continue to be a focus for
the golf industry. Land use concerns, water issues and habitat availability
are just a few of the challenges facing the sport. The Institute, collaborative
partners and donors are taking the lead to ensure resources are dedicated
to strengthening the positive bond between golf and the environment.
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