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.