One of the great benefits of golf is the opportunity it gives us to bond with nature. Between sizing up shots, we can enjoy a plethora of natural elements and various forms of wildlife.
Who isn’t in awe of holes that hug a coastline, or delighted by seeing a herd of deer scamper across a fairway, or observing other wildlife such as foxes, birds, fish, turtles and frogs in their natural surroundings?
Today, more than ever, the world is becoming more conscientious about the environment, and the celebration of Earth Day on April 22 emphasizes the importance of protecting our natural surroundings, especially water resources.
And no group is more aware of these issues than the USGA Green Section. Since its inception in 1920, the USGA has invested more than $40 million in turfgrass and environmental research. Part of this amount has supported university turfgrass breeding programs, where more than 30 resource-efficient cultivars have been developed that contribute to water and fertilizer savings.
More recently, the Green Section has supported research on the golf industry’s role in water conservation and sustainability. Since 2005, golf courses have reduced use of irrigation water by 21 percent. Golf course closures have marginally contributed to water conservation, but the majority of savings are the result of an industry-wide effort to improve irrigation scheduling and application practices, and reduce irrigation of out-of-play areas.
Many facilities, especially those in drought-stricken regions, have replaced potable irrigation water with recycled wastewater, and are utilizing drought-tolerant turfgrasses and landscape plants. Research conducted with USGA support continually develops and refines these types of sustainable practices.
USGA research also has developed practices to protect surface and ground water quality. Research has shown that – when applied properly – pesticides and fertilizers do not run off or leach into water sources. Further, maintaining vegetation along pond and stream banks helps filter runoff and holds soil in place.
Dr. Cole Thompson, the assistant director for USGA Green Section research, points out that golf courses are also doing their part to promote wildlife habitat. One example is Monarchs in the Rough, an Audubon International program supported by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and the USGA. This program seeks to increase monarch butterfly habitat by 500 acres with new milkweed plantings.
“The trends toward resource conservation, along with the enthusiastic reception of programs like Monarchs in the Rough, demonstrate the golf industry’s commitment to the environment,” said Thompson. “The USGA’s investment in turfgrass and environmental research is paying dividends by way of resource-use efficiency, augmented wildlife habitat and recognition of the environmental benefits of golf courses.”
David Shefter is a senior staff writer for the USGA. Email him at dshefter@usga.org.
