USGA contributes $50,000 toward Environmental Institute for Golf grant to support research projects in 2015
Lawrence, Kan. (March 31, 2015) – The United States Golf Association (USGA) has contributed $50,000 to help the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) fund new research projects in 2015. The funds are earmarked to directly support the GCSAA Chapter Cooperative Research Program.
Under this program that works with local turfgrass researchers, each participating GCSAA chapter identifies one or more research projects that address a significant local issue for superintendents. The research funds are made available to GCSAA through a block grant from the Environmental Institute for Golf (EIFG), GCSAA’s philanthropic organization.
“We are very fortunate to have the support of the USGA for many of our research projects and programs,” said Rhett Evans, GCSAA chief executive officer. “This association is grateful for the generous backing of the USGA, and we look forward to doing everything we can together for the good of the game.”
“Research provides the foundation to continually advance the long-term health of the game of golf,” said Kimberly Erusha, Ph.D., managing director, USGA Green Section. “The USGA is proud to invest in agronomic research that supports scientists in their own regions. The Chapter Cooperative Research Program provides an established infrastructure that realizes our goal to support a healthy, sustainable game, both locally and globally.”
The USGA has also contributed $400,000 to the EIFG to fund the second edition of five GCSAA Golf Course Environmental Profile surveys, a collaborative program that began in late 2014 with a water use and conservation profile. Upcoming profiles will address nutrient use, pest management, energy use and environmental stewardship. The findings will be independently compared to the previous surveys to measure change and trends for the future.
“The two associations are working closely together and have some very important work to do for the golf industry,” said Evans. “We believe in a bright future for the golf industry, and having this data is paramount for the game’s future. It serves as the foundation to create relevant education and best management tools for the profession.”
The USGA also is a partner in the annual Golf Industry Show, a vital program for GCSAA, and is a leader in funding turfgrass research, with annual support to colleges and universities across the country since 1920.
About GCSAA and the EIFG
The Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) is a leading golf organization in the United States. Its focus is on golf course management, and since 1926 GCSAA has been the top professional association for the men and women who manage golf courses in the U.S. and worldwide. From its headquarters in Lawrence, Kan., the association provides education, information and representation to nearly 18,000 members in more than 78 countries. The association’s mission is to serve its members, advance their profession and enhance the enjoyment, growth and vitality of the game of golf. Visit GCSAA at www.gcsaa.org or find us on Facebook or Twitter.
The Environmental Institute for Golf is the philanthropic organization of the GCSAA. Its mission is to foster sustainability through research, awareness, education, programs and scholarships for the benefit of golf course management professionals, golf facilities and the game. Visit EIFG at www.eifg.org or find us on Facebook or Twitter.
Contact:
Craig Smith, Director, Communications and Media Relations
Phone: 800-472-7878, ext. 4431 or 785-691-9197 (cell)
csmith@gcsaa.org
