National survey focuses on golf course nutrient use
The Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) has announced that the third phase of its first-of-its kind national survey of golf courses will begin in mid-March.
This phase will collect data from golf course superintendents on the amount of nutrients applied to golf courses. Surveys will be distributed beginning March 19, with the cutoff date for the receipt of information April 27.
"We have been pleased by the response rate of the first two phases," GCSAA Director of Research Clark Throssell, Ph.D., said. "It is important that we have strong participation by both GCSAA member and non-member superintendents to compile the necessary data. It is vital that we get data from all types and sizes of facilities. The information will help GCSAA to better serve them in managing their facilities."
The survey is part of a multi-year project being undertaken by GCSAA that will evaluate environmental performance on golf courses. The Golf Course Environmental Profile project is designed to collect information that will allow superintendents and other facility personnel to become better managers, help them operate more efficiently and lead to GCSAA developing more valuable programs and services. Such information will include details about playing surfaces, natural resources, environmental stewardship efforts and maintenance practices on the golf course.
Throssell indicated the data are still being analyzed from the first two phases, one focusing on the physical profile of a golf facility and the other on water use and conservation. The first comprehensive report of the first two phases will appear in a peer-reviewed scientific journal this year. The Environmental Institute for Golf funded the first two phases of the project thanks in part to a grant from The Toro Foundation.
Celebrating its 80th anniversary, GCSAA is a leading golf organization, which has as its focus golf course management. Since 1926, GCSAA has been the top professional association for the men and women who manage golf courses in the United States and worldwide. From its headquarters in Lawrence, Kan., the association provides education, information and representation to more than 21,000 members in more than 72 countries. GCSAA’s mission is to serve its members, advance their profession and enhance the enjoyment, growth and vitality of the game of golf. The association’s philanthropic organization, the Environmental Institute for Golf, works to strengthen the compatibility of golf with the natural environment through research grants, support for education programs and outreach efforts. Visit GCSAA at www.gcsaa.org.
The Environmental Institute for Golf, the philanthropic organization of the GCSAA, is a collaborative effort of the environmental and golf communities, dedicated to strengthening the compatibility of golf with the natural environment. The Institute concentrates on delivering programs and services involving research, education and outreach that communicate the best management practices of environmental stewardship on the golf course. For more on The Institute, visit www.eifg.org.
Contact:
Jeff Bollig, GCSAA director of communications
(800) 472-7878, ext. 4430
jbollig@gcsaa.org
