Delaware latest state to step up with BMP guidelines for golf courses

Eastern Shore GCSA leads the development of statewide best management practices with grant from the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America

A collaborative effort by members of the Eastern Shore Golf Course Superintendents Association and scientists from the University of Delaware has resulted in the publication of “Best Management Practices for Delaware Golf Courses”.

The Delaware BMPs were developed in part by using the BMP Planning Guide and Template created by the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) and funded and supported by the USGA.

The Eastern Shore GCSA received an $10,000 BMP grant that GCSAA funded through the association’s Environmental Institute for Golf (EIFG) in part by PGA Tour. The BMP grant program provides funding through the EIFG to chapters for developing new guides, updating existing guides or for verification programs. GCSAA’s goal is to have all 50 states offer established BMPs by 2020.

While the document covers nutrient and pesticide usage, erosion and sedimentation, pollinator protection and more, there is a special emphasis on water quality, which is particularly vital for those courses located within the Chesapeake Bay watershed.

William Reil, president of the Eastern Shore GCSA and superintendent at Gibson Island (Md.) Golf Club, said the BMPs help show how superintendents are doing their part.

“As superintendents, we want to make sure that we are following the laws,” Reil said. “Having the BMPs are big not just for Delaware, but for the Mid-Atlantic region. It shows that we care.”

GCSAA members who were on the Delaware BMPs steering committee included Reil, John Jacob, superintendent at Deerfield Golf and Country Club in Newark, Del.; Greg Thomas, superintendent at The Rookery Golf Club in Milton, Del.; Jamie Palokas, superintendent at Baywood Greens in Milsboro, Del.; and Jonathan Urbanski, director of golf courses and grounds at  Wilmington (Del.) Country Club.

In addition to the University of Delaware, the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control and the Delaware Department of Agriculture also contributed to the project.

“It’s very important having everyone come together to show that our business is on board to make sure we are being stewards,” Reil said. “Having the university put their stamp of approval on it is big for the state for sure.”

To read “Best Management Practices for Delaware Golf Courses” and to learn more about GCSAA’s BMP program, visit www.gcsaa.org/bmp.

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 more than 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. Visit our industry-leading magazine at GCMonline.com.

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: 
Angela Hartmann, Director, Marketing and Communications
Phone: 800-472-7878, ext. 3647 or 785-393-1361 (cell)
ahartmann@gcsaa.org