Turfhugger

BIGGA Video Series: Golf Course Ecology

2011-12-27T21:14:00.007-05:00

This is an excellent video series by the British and International Golf Greenskeepers Association Limited (BIGGA) covering various aspects of typical british golf course ecology management strategies. This 4 part series was released back in 1997 but is still very relevant.

Topics in Video #1 Include:

A variety of view points on the whole personal experience of enjoying golf
An ecologists perspective on golf courses
Ecological management strategies and principles for Golf in Europe
Integrating the interests of wildlife and organisations
Contouring and bringing back English hay meadows
Rudding Park's types of wildlife species and their successes
Bat boxes made out of recycling timber and positive comments from golfers.

Topics in Video # 2 include:

Not obscuring views and vistas
Avoiding losing sight lines between tee to green
The problems of invading scrub and plants
Assessing the course to avoid the course being over run
Features of Southport Ainsdale golf course and measures taken to overcome issues such as invading trees, soil issues and other problems.
Lindrick Golf Course and what they're proud of at their course - with an interview with the club secretary who shines a light on the club strategy for maintaining a positive ecology.
Also find out about the clubs observations from year to year as different types of grass and foliage grow and develop.
Alwoodly Golf Course which is an Inland Heathlands Golf Course which boasts a successful Heather regeneration as part of a planned ecological plan.

Topics in Video #3 include:

Thinning out dead, dying and deformed timber
Restocking with other trees and shrubs to improve structural diversity
Improving the canopy
Disposing of and stockpiling of old timber on the course to encourage wildlife
Returning back to a more natural environment on golf courses
Linlithgow Golf Course and their involvement with the Scottish Golfcourse Wildlife Initiative and management of the golf course and issue such as landscape, an integrated management plan and other aspects of the site - providing a great example of good practice.
Examples of the management plan include making better use of wet areas and the balancing act between quality golfing areas and ecological improvement. - which brought positive comments from golfers.

Topics in Video #4 include:

Integrating nature conservation opportunities and golfing opportunities
Trying to strike a balance between historic parkland and woodland
Taking into consideration what makes a challenging course
Naturalising the course, helping the challenge of the course
Improving the original landscape design of this area
What species could be encourage through positive management
An interview with the club secretary and others who share their views on wider environmental considerations and the many sites in the UK that are considered as areas of great scientific importance, which show that Golf Courses can be more environmentally friendly and support wildlife.

What Sustainability means to the Golf Course Management Business

2011-01-09T11:44:00.000-05:00

What Sustainability means to the Golf Course Management Business

Lately the word Sustainability has been tossed around like a garden salad, what does Sustainability really mean? We know golf course clientele’ desire attractive, playable, green spaces, while according to non-golf public opinion, golf courses are a meaningless waste of resource and space. Sustainability in golf course management seems like an oxymoron.

Compost Happens - Case Study, Q and A with Scott Wheeler of Gorge Vale

2011-01-08T19:03:00.000-05:00

Compost Happens - Case Study, Q and A with Scott Wheeler of Gorge Vale

One major tenant of "sustainability" that seems to be missing from most descriptions of the term in our industry is the concept of becoming self-sufficient. Why is this an important concept? By sourcing materials locally or even within our own property lines, we reduce dependency on the resource intensive transportation, production and extraction of materials. Perhaps the greatest opportunity accessible to all golf courses is composting.

Furthermore, for Island golf courses who find themselves surounded by a "money moat", the cost (economically and environmentally) to import materials is significantly higher than a golf course within the mainland web of highways. One course that has adopted composting practices as a means of managing wastes, improving aesthetics, reducing outward expenditures and creating the perfect size and consistency for use in turf isGorge Vale Golf Club on Vancouver Island, BC, Canada.

I've been lucky enough to have a tour of the property (take your own here) and decided to interview Golf Course Superintendent Scott Wheeler for more info on his Composting Program.

Plant Health

2011-01-05T15:29:00.000-05:00

or superintendents to provide top quality turfgrass, the turf must make the best use of inputs like carbon and nitrogen while limiting energy wasted on preventing stresses caused by diseases, the environment, and other factors. Agronomic practices such as low mowing heights, reduced nitrogen rates, reduced irrigation inputs, and other cultural practices such as aerification can also cause stress to the turf. To maximize turf quality, superintendents focus on controlling factors they can impact to create an ideal environment for turf growth. These factors include agronomic practices to reduce stress, improve quality, and manage pests and diseases.

Intrinsic brand fungicides, including Insignia SC Intrinsic and Honor Intrinsic, improve plant health through inhibition of mitochondrial respiration in both fungal diseases and plants.

In fungi, inhibition of mitochondrial respiration prevents the breakdown of carbon required for production of energy to fuel fungal growth. This results in death of the fungi and is the disease control benefit.

In plants, the inhibition of mitochondrial respiration causes a cascade of positive events that can result in improved tolerance to stresses and increased efficiency of plant physiological processes. Inhibition of mitochondrial respiration by pyraclostrobin results in:

Less CO₂ lost by the plant, resulting in more carbon available for plant growth.
Increased activity of nitrate reductase (NR), the enzyme that is important for making a form of nitrogen that can be used by plants. This results in more nitrogen available for plant growth.
- The activation of nitrate reductase increases levels of nitric oxide. Nitric oxide triggers plant defense mechanisms. Plant defense mechanisms are important not only in defending against fungal diseases, but also bacterial and viral diseases.
- Nitric oxide inhibits enzymes involved in the production of ethylene, a plant hormone produced in response to stress. Ethylene can cause a plant to drop energy containing leaves, to mature earlier than normal, and to abort flowers and seed in response to stress.
Increased activity of enzymes like superoxide dismutase and peroxidases that remove harmful activated oxygen species. This can result in reduced oxidative stress in response to environmental disorders, such as physiological leaf spot, ozone damage, cold stress, and heat stress.

Delivering value by affecting 3 components

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Plant Health Research

BASF has researched the plant health effects of pyraclostrobin in crops for more than 10 years and in turf and ornamentals for more than three years. Our findings show that pyraclostrobin enhances many physiological processes in a plant. So while the chemical treats the turf and plants for disease, it also primes the plant’s immune system, resulting in more efficient growth and photosynthesis as well as increased tolerance to stress. Download a copy of the research findings below:

BASF Intrinsic Plant Health Research ( pdf, 3 MB)

Success Stories

Written

Insignia® SC Intrinsic™ brand fungicide protects against diseases and stress at Janesville Country Club.

Janesville Country Club Insignia Success Story ( pdf, 714 KB)

Video

Intrinsic™ Brand Fungicide Success Stories: Hawk's Nest Golf Club

Play video

China's growing golf courses: the thin end of the wedge?

2011-01-05T00:02:00.000-05:00

China's growing golf courses: the thin end of the wedge?

by Scott J Morrison Labels: China, Development, Water Quality

Jonathan Watts travels to the tropical island of Hainan, where locals are teeing up plans to turn protected rainforest into a luxury golf resort.

Read more here

Course Vision Mapping for Golf Courses Environmental Features

2011-01-04T16:02:00.000-05:00

Course Vision

Ethics in Business

2011-01-04T05:39:00.000-05:00

Ethics in Business
The Oregon Ethics in Business Awards honor those organizations and individuals who have demonstrated ethical business practice in its broadest interpretation: in the workplace, the marketplace, the environment, and the community. The recipients of these awards will have, by act and example, gone beyond the expected to achieve excellence in ethical business practices.

Back in 2009 the Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, located on the southern Oregon coast, received Oregon Ethics in Business Award. The resort provides golfers with three championship style 18-hole layouts ranked among the nation’s elite public courses, along with several exceptional restaurants and lodging accommodations. Bandon Dunes understands the importance of keeping guests satisfied and aims to provide services that are “genuine, sincere, helpful and friendly.” However, Bandon Dunes does not only consider paying customers to be their guests, but instead, extends the same respect to stakeholders including employees, purveyors, the local community, and the environment. This golf resort, which has been barely carved from the landscape leaving nature largely unaffected, supported by the gracious hospitality of employees who are truly proud to be a part of the organization, has continued to become an exceptionally profitable, overwhelmingly generous, highly ethical enterprise.

Pinehurst - Looking Good!

2011-01-03T14:41:00.001-05:00

Pinehurst - Looking Good!

"Sustainable Golf" "Environmentally Friendly Golf" "Green Golf" "Audubon Golf" "Golf Environment Organisation" "Turfhugger"

"Sustainability" Revisited

2011-01-03T12:58:00.000-05:00

"Sustainability" Revisited

Eco-Friendly Golf Development Case Study - El Chocolatal Eco-Resort

2011-01-02T15:26:00.000-05:00

Eco-Friendly Golf Development Case Study - El Chocolatal Eco-Resort

"Sustainable Golf" "Environmentally Friendly Golf" "Green Golf" "Audubon Golf" "Golf Environment Organisation" "Turfhugger"

Eco-Friendly Golf Development Case Study: El Chocolatal Eco Resort Part 2

2011-01-02T15:25:00.000-05:00

Eco-Friendly Golf Development Case Study: El Chocolatal Eco Resort Part 2

"Sustainable Golf" "Environmentally Friendly Golf" "Green Golf" "Audubon Golf" "Golf Environment Organisation" "Turfhugger"

TURFHUGGER: NBC - Nullified Bird Calls?

2011-01-02T02:01:00.000-05:00

TURFHUGGER: NBC - Nullified Bird Calls?

Proposed golf resort hurdles remain | Otago Daily Times Online News Keep Up to Date Local, National New Zealand & International News

2010-12-31T15:28:00.000-05:00

Proposed golf resort hurdles remain | Otago Daily Times Online News Keep Up to Date Local, National New Zealand & International News

CLICK PHOTO TO ENLARGE

A computer-generated image of the proposed Parkins Bay golf course. Image supplied.
Backers of a proposed golf resort at Glendhu Bay, near Wanaka, need to do more to convince the Environment Court their plans for a championship golf course and resort development can tee-off in the future.
The Environment Court has released an interim decision from Judge Jon Jackson on the proposal for a golf resort on about 180ha of farmland on Glendhu Station overlooking Parkins Bay - a secluded part of Lake Wanaka directly west of Glendhu Bay.

The interim decision has directed golf resort company Parkins Bay Preserve Limited (PBPL) to lodge a legal memorandum outlining further conditions to mitigate landscape concerns and provide extra "environmental compensation" at the proposed site.

Judge Jackson said the resort development "as matters stand" was inconsistent with the Resource Management Act, despite the proposal being "in many ways highly laudable".

"Sustainable Golf" "Environmentally Friendly Golf" "Green Golf" "Audubon Golf" "Golf Environment Organisation" "Turfhugger"

www.turfhugger.com: Milorganite - How it's Made

2010-12-31T15:24:00.000-05:00

www.turfhugger.com: Milorganite - How it's Made

"Sustainable Golf" "Environmentally Friendly Golf" "Green Golf" "Audubon Golf" "Golf Environment Organisation" "Turfhugger"

Wet courses hit golf club books | Sunshine Coast News | Local News in Sunshine Coast | The Sunshine Coast Daily

2010-12-31T15:20:00.000-05:00

Wet courses hit golf club books | Sunshine Coast News | Local News in Sunshine Coast | The Sunshine Coast Daily

Nambour Golf Club secretary manager Stephen McMahon checks out the state of the course and, left, the saturated course.

Nicola Brander
SUNSHINE Coast golf clubs are being sucked into a financial blackhole, thanks to the big wet.

Clubs are reporting income losses in the hundreds of thousands of dollars as fairways have too often become lakes in recent weeks, keeping both members and weekend hackers at bay.

The non-stop nature of the rain over the past month has meant many courses have failed to drain, rendering them unplayable.

Nambour Golf Club secretary-manger Stephen McMahon said the constant downpour had wiped $100,000 from the club's books over the past six months, the equivalent of 10% of its annual income.

“We own the golf course so we have a huge asset base, which enables us to look at our loans and what have you,” he said.

“We review everything every week. We never want to lay off staff. But our casual bar staff aren't getting work because the clubhouse is closed.

“We haven't played one Sunday this month. That's a lot of money for staff who work on a Sunday because of penalty rates.”

Yesterday, only nine holes of the Nambour course were playable.

While only two were covered in water, most were muddy and heavy under foot.

"Sustainable Golf" "Environmentally Friendly Golf" "Green Golf" "Audubon Golf" "Golf Environment Organisation" "Turfhugger"

Golf course backers advised to work on bay-side... | Stuff.co.nz

2010-12-31T15:17:00.000-05:00

Golf course backers advised to work on bay-side... | Stuff.co.nz

The Environment Court says a planned $75 million golf resort near Wanaka is highly laudable but does not meet resource management objectives – yet.

Three parties appealed against the proposal to build a 180ha 18-hole professional course and resort on land at Parkins Bay, near Glendhu Bay.

Glendhu Station owners Bob and Pam McRae and Queenstown-based developer and golf course designer John Darby are behind the project, which was granted resource consent in May 2008.

The Upper Clutha Environmental Society, the Upper Clutha Tracks Trust and a third party, an Australian holiday homeowner, appealed against the Queenstown Lakes District Council resource decision.

They argued the project could harm the landscape and amenity values of Glendhu Bay.

Judge Jon Jackson's 99-page interim decision – with commissioners Charles Manning and Diane Menzies – set down dates in February for additional information and new evidence from the parties. Proceedings were adjourned for a final decision.

The interim decision says Parkins Bay Preserve Ltd's application was in many ways highly laudable.

The 18-hole course and resort would come close to achieving a sustainable pattern of golf courses in the district.

However, the application did not adequately deal with the impact of large-scale development in a rural area, the cumulative effects of any further development and the natural environment of Glendhu Station.

Judge Jackson said Parkins Bay Preserve had addressed environmental compensation only as an afterthought and should be given a right of reply after consultation with the McRae family.

If amended, the application could be pushed from failure to success, Judge Jackson said.

www.turfhugger.com: Garry Oak Ecosystem Project

2010-12-31T15:14:00.000-05:00

www.turfhugger.com: Garry Oak Ecosystem Project

www.turfhugger.com: Past Ten, Next Ten: Interview with Ross Miller

2010-12-31T15:13:00.000-05:00

www.turfhugger.com: Past Ten, Next Ten: Interview with Ross Miller

Introducing Turfhugger

2009-07-23T10:48:00.006-04:00

Recently I've taken a break from goforethegreen for three reasons:

A new Border Collie Puppy
Very busy with my company Out on a Limb
The creation of a new blog - www.turfhugger.com

Turfhugger.com aims to report and promote the efforts, products, technologies and personalities who lead our industry towards an environmentally sustainable future. Turfhugger.com will enjoy its “soft release” on July 23 during the Canadian Open and the “hard release” on Thursday August 20th during the Wyndham Championship.

I'm extremely excited to introduce Turfhugger.com's contributers:

Paul Robertson, Turf Superintendent at Victoria GCC
Jeff Mingay, Golf Course Architect
Michael Vogt, McMahon Group
Mark Scenna, Environmental Investigations Ltd
Darryl James, Arbor Turf Solutions
Rob Mallette, Strategic Sustainable Solutions
Scott Morrison, Out on a Limb (This guy's amazing!)

I'd like to thank all my readers (all 837 of you from 13 different countries!) from the past year and a bit, it was your comments, and your support that encouraged me to create a more concise and creative blog.

Peace.

This Week in Green Golf

2009-07-03T11:06:00.002-04:00

The Ford Wayne Gretzky Classic is this weekend, and although nothing jumps out at me as being "green" it is co-hosted by The Raven at Lora Bay in Collingwood Ontario. The Raven at Lora Bay is an Audubon Certified, IPM Accredited (I think the 1st in Collingwood) facility. I Met the Superintendent Chris LeCour a few years ago, you can't help but to be moved by his passion for the environment and it's demonstrated in his maintenance practices. Check out his blog to read up on some of the happenings at Lora Bay.

The Pennsylvania Environmental Council recently released a Golf Course Water Resources Handbook for Best Management Practices handbook to help golf courses throughout the state restore wetlands, manage stormwater, and make courses more enjoyable. Read the full article here, and be sure to view the Power Point Presentation as it's easiest one of the best available on the internet. Download your free copy of the handbook at www.pecpa.org/gchandbook

Courtesy of the GCSAA, 2009 ELGA applications are now available!
From the press release: "The GCSAA/Golf Digest Environmental Leaders in Golf Awards are now available online. The ELGAs, presented in partnership with Syngenta and Rain Bird, Golf Division, recognize golf course superintendents and golf courses for their commitment to environmental stewardship. The deadline for applications is Oct. 18, 2009.

Applicants are judged on five areas: Resource Conservation, Water Quality Management, Integrated Pest Management, Wildlife/Habitat Management and Education/Outreach. National winners will be determined from the top public, private, resort and international applicants. From the national winners, an overall winner will be announced. In addition, Chapter and Merit prizes are also awarded.

All ELGA winners receive:

Recognition in Golf Digest and GCSAA publications
Recognition at the 2010 GCSAA Education Conference and Golf Industry Show in San Diego.
An invitation for the winner's employer to attend the recognition activities in San Diego.
A personalized trophy or certificate of achievement
National, regional and local publicity

For more information about the ELGAs, contact Greg Lyman, GCSAA’s director, environmental programs, at glyman@gcsaa.org or at 800-472-7878, ext. 3625."

Check out this GCSAA Video featuring previous ELGA Winner James Roney

Can you say this ten times fast "Dr. John Kaminski,Dr. Megan Kennelly,Dr. Jim Kerns, Dr. Lane Tredway,Dr. Frank Wong "? Well you don't have to, instead just go to the shared blog aptly named "Golf Course Disease Updates By University Professors". This blog covers timely turf grass disease information for the Northeast, Southeast, Midwest, West and South Central regions of the US.

Landscape Management is an excellent resource when it comes to environment/turf news. Some of their latest articles that I really like include:
Ten Environmentally Friendly Landscape Tips
New Brunswick Pesticide Ban Explained
Weather Based Irrigation System Expected to Save Cemetery 100,00 Gallons

Canada Day tribute to Stanley Thompson

2009-07-01T10:29:00.016-04:00

On June 29th in Ingonish Nova Scotia the Honourable Michael L. MacDonald, Senator, revealed a Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada plaque commemorating the national historic significance of golf course architect Stanley Thompson. From the press release:
"A pioneer of golf course design, Stanley Thompson used his exceptional sense of perspective to create visually outstanding courses," said Senator MacDonald. "We are very fortunate to have what some consider his very best design, the Highlands Links Golf Course, here in Cape Breton Highlands National Park."

The ST Society claims the courses at this link are ST's, but there's some debate about his role in number of these so here's a list from Ian Andrew of the courses he feels are likely pure ST. Although I only work with 5 Stanley Thompson designed courses, and have only visited 12 out of the 178(or145), I feel I have an average understanding of the principles and character of his designs, but perhaps from a different point of view than many. When I think of a Stanley Thompson course I think of a course that was built in the first third of the century, and because these courses were built relatively close to the population centers of their day, most are now fully surrounded by our urban centers. It's this characteristic that interests me, and even more so, I'm fascinated with the way superintendents have been able to preserve the "Thompson Integrity" while incorporating today's environmental standards and considerations. Here are a few quick examples...

Check out this link for an Environmental Case Study of Banff Springs from the American Society for Golf Course Architects.

This article covers the restoration of Dickinson Brooke in Fundy National Park Golf Course.

The Cutten Club in Guelph has established buffer-zones around all pond areas and has even reduced the amount of water used from the local Speed River by rerouting Guelph University's grey water run-off through the course and into irrigation reservoirs. This water carries a number of potential pollutants from roads and parking lots (hydro-carbons and road salt to say the least) but becomes filtered through the turf before being released into the local watershed.

Yes, putting up bird houses is relatively easy to do, and any course new or old should be doing it. An urban-locked course like Islington GC largely goes un-noticed by the community for their significant role in providing nesting cavities in an area of the city that is starving for trees, let alone ones with suitable nesting cavities. In the map below you'll see Islington GC, you'll notice how they (and other local ST courses like St.Georges and Lambton) provide crucial ecological infrastructure (Carbon Sequestration, Habitat Corridors, Green Space) to this area of Etobicoke/Toronto.

View Larger Map
First person account of Bigwin Island GC

Green Gadgets: EcoGolf

2009-06-29T22:30:00.002-04:00

Snazzy video describing basic eco-options for golfers, including Golf Carts, Golf Balls and Tees.

Bearly Just Water Hazards in Whistler BC

2009-06-28T14:17:00.002-04:00

Waters not always a "hazard"

2009-06-28T11:19:00.010-04:00

While submersed in the walls of a golf course, you couldn't feel further away from the concrete jungle when you witness a Blue Heron strike a small fish and watch as it gulps down lunch. While supporting habitat needs has become a secondary function of our golf courses (along with carbon sequestering, heat-island sinks, storm water management, etc...) maintaining these functions has become a primary focuses. One of the basic elements that contributes to overall ecosystem health is of course water quality. Once superintendents have employed techniques to protect, preserve and improve water quality, the next step is to encourage wildlife.

Whether a golf course is located on a stream, large lake or dotted with small ponds, aquatic life is essential to the local food chain. I've compiled a few resources explaining what golf courses are doing to increase the effectiveness of our water features for aquatic life and some basic "how to" links that can provide guidance.

Links to improving fish habitat on the golf courses from The Environmental Institute for Golf:

Water under the Bridge - Managing Fish Habitat and Stream Crossings on a Manitoba Golf Course (Word Doc.)

Here are a few links to the regulations of restoring and protecting fish habitat and the process of stocking your pond or stream:
Why Protect Fish Habitat? Here is some great starting info from Fisheries and Oceans Canada. This site begins to outline the regulations surrounding interactions with fish habitat. Here are few regional links, I recommend you review them all, but be sure to contact your local government body responsible for enforcing fish habitat related regulations.

The fish and Habitat Primer, Ontario Edition
Ontario's Fish Stocking Program (Funding Assistance and Guidelines)
Trout and Walleye Pond Stocking Tips - Very good Q & A
Protecting Integrity of Fish Habitat, Quebec Presentation
BC guide to the Fish Protection Act (General Streams, Sensitive Streams, Managing Debris, Riparian)
Alberta - Fish and Wildlife - Habitat on Public Lands, Integrated Management

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Habitat and Resource Conservation

On Course for Sustainability

2009-06-26T09:50:00.004-04:00

Our Euro buddies are really showing us up lately, check out this public relations video.

Vinland Natural Nine

2009-06-26T09:46:00.003-04:00

Although it won't be hosting a PGA event anytime soon, I'd like to play it!

This Week in Green Golf

2009-06-26T08:52:00.013-04:00

Bird-B-Gone Mist, the latest ground-breaking product offered by Bird-B-Gone Inc., has been named one of Buildings Magazin es’ TOP 100 Products of 2009! Products were chosen based on their “innovation, functionality, efficiency, and environmental friendliness”. I like the Bird B Gone products because they have a focus on deterring the birds, and do not aim to hurt the birds, although I've got to say I've never been a fan of spikes.

In Cambodia, Turtle Stew is considered a delicacy. But when poachers are collecting thousands of endangered turtles someone has to step in and provide a sanctuary. In this case, it's a golf course. From the article:

"The Angkor Golf Resort and the Jay Pritzker Academy are working with the Angkor Centre for the Conservation of Biodiversity to provide safe havens for critically endangered turtles that have been confiscated during government raids from markets where the animals were being sold by the kilo to turn into stew.

Turtles are considered a delicacy by Cambodians, and the demand for their meat is high enough to support an illegal trade, pushing many species toward extinction. While police can confiscate turtles from poachers, the more difficult task is finding a safe area to release them.

Jim Gubricky, golf course superintendent at the Angkor Golf Resort, said the resort started fostering turtles about 18 months ago. "The wife of a guy who used to work here saw a bunch of turtles being sold in the market. She bought them all - probably about 50 or 60 - brought them to the course and released them."

Now I'm sure this won't come as a surprise to superintendents, but it's always nice to see it in the news: "Environmentally Friendly Golf Course Project Cleans Storm Runoff".

We've all seen the sludgie water come in to our urban golf courses and watch how that is filtered and transformed into a clear life giving substance that many take for granted, but lets face it, our golf courses are not recognised as fulfilling this function. This stigma can change thanks to articles like this. Side note: I googled this golf course and 6 articles about this project came up, very well done. From the article:

"The private course in northeastern New Hanover County (Eagle Point GC) on Tuesday opened its gates as part of a push to help treat storm water before it flows into Little Creek and eventually the Intracoastal Waterway.

More than 60 volunteers, including some teen-agers from the Community Boys and Girls Club of Wilmington, spent Tuesday morning getting their hands dirty planting nearly 5,000 plants."

GCM is one of my favorite golf industry news sources, here's a couple of recent items that were of interest to me.

A 2010 Ryder Cup Update, From the article:

"Europe's Ryder Cup Captain Colin Montgomerie is lending his support to the initiative: "I am delighted that The 2010 Ryder Cup is pioneering sustainability in sport events. To know that important social and environmental issues are being addressed across all aspects of the event adds even more to the already huge sense of pride I have in captaining the European Team.

"Come event time, we are going to witness some inspirational sporting drama, within a stunning environment, and with a legacy of improved understanding and practical action in Wales and across the game of golf."

The action plan cuts across four core areas:

The Venue: Further developing the Celtic Manor Resort's existing environmental management program, through which the resort hotel and clubhouses have already achieved level three of the Welsh Green Dragon Awards for sustainable businesses.
Event Staging: Establishing policy, promoting best practice guidance and collating baseline data for a wide range of issues such as energy, transport, catering, waste and temporary structures. This part of the action plan aims to ensure outreach through procurement, extending the initiative as far as possible out into supply chains.
Communications: Preceding and during the event, undertaking a wide range of media communication activities to make the most of the unique opportunity to raise public awareness and demonstrate leadership in this field.
Legacy: Ensuring that Ryder Cup achievements have a multiplier effect across golf and the environment in Wales and internationally, including setting in motion a movement towards the greening of all golf events and the provision of a detailed Sustainable Golf Events Toolkit to aid delivery."

Tiger Woods PGA 10 - Live Weather Conditions

2009-06-25T09:09:00.003-04:00

Although I'd like to see a little more buffer-zones, bird houses and compost piles on the courses in Tiger Woods PGA 10, I was impressed by the "Real Time Weather Conditions" courtesy of the Weather Channel built into the game, very cool.

Methane Powered Golf Cart

2009-06-23T09:51:00.004-04:00

I'm not going to even bother with an intro, from the Ja pan F or Sustainability website article:

"Japan's Yamaha Motor Co. has developed a golf cart that runs on methane made from cow dung. In preparation for commercial production, in October 2008, the company began testing the cart on a golf course in Katori, Chiba Prefecture. Osaka Gas Co. provided the methane at a low cost for the vehicle tests, as part of its efforts to promote the use of cow-dung biomass as a low-cost fuel.

To make methane usable as a vehicle fuel, both a methane refining system and a high-pressure gas-filling system are required, among other things, which come at high cost. As a fix, Osaka Gas developed activated carbon capable of absorbing methane at low pressure. When methane is put into the gas tank filled with this type of carbon -- under a pressure of around one megapascal (equivalent to the pressure at a depth of 100 meters under water) -- the tank can hold around 30 times the tank's volume of methane, thereby eliminating the need for high-pressure filling.

In Katori, there is a place called "Biomass Town," where citizens promote the use of cow dung for local biofuel, and it was here that the city looked for users of dung-derived methane. After consulting with the city, Yamaha Motor found a golf course in the vicinity willing to participate and began studying the possibility of using methane in golf carts, which travel relatively regular distances and are not driven at high speeds. This testing has led to the development of a golf cart powered by the locally produced biomass."

Go Solar Now!

2009-06-23T09:40:00.003-04:00

I love this stuff, nothing says "Environmentally Conscious Golf Club" like solar powered golf carts at your entrance.

Peel and Stick Solar Panels for Golf Carts care of Earth Care Solar

"Now everyone can enjoy the benefits of owning a solar golf cart with the Peel and Stick Roof Kit from Earth Care Products, Inc. This revolutionary new product offers an easy and affordable way for consumers to GO GREEN."

Environmental Turf awarded for green grass

2009-06-23T08:44:00.004-04:00

Environmental Turf Inc. has been awarded the 2009 Turf and Ornamental Company of the Year award by BoardRoom magazine, the official publication of the Association of Private Clubs & Directors.
From the World Golf article:
"The focus for Environmental Turf in 2008 was in helping to educate the golf and private club industry, including golf course architects, superintendents, managers and PGA Professionals at private clubs all over the world, about the innovative ways they can help the environment by grassing or regrassing their golf courses with low water use grasses such as SeaDwarf Seashore Paspalum,"

Bethpage Black Superintendent Craig Currier

2009-06-20T14:38:00.007-04:00

This is not much of a post, just a couple links to interviews with Bethpage Black Superintendent Craig Currier.

Wall Street Journal - In response to a question about what the biggest challenge was, from the article:
"Getting the roughs right. This graduated rough, [a recent change in USGA philosophy where a shot farther from the fairway is more likely to find deeper rough] the USGA didn't want it too thick or too high, so finding just the right height has been tough. We're actually cutting the first few feet of rough at 2.5 inches, which is lower than we cut it every day for the public. Even around the greens, we're making a pass at 2.5 [inches]. I've actually never cut it below 3 [inches] for the public."

Grounds-Mag - Article discusses fairway fertility, Crabgrass and IPM where Mr. Currier explains the IPM program at Bethpage Black, from the article:
“We divided the course into three sets of six greens,” says Currier. “We follow a normal program using pesticides on the first six greens, while we follow an IPM program on the second six greens. On the third six greens, we use no pesticides whatsoever. It will be interesting to see the results at the end of the three-year period."

Bethpage may be greener than most!

2009-06-20T14:09:00.009-04:00

Just found this tidbit on how Bethpage Black is Audubon Certified and uses effluent water for irrigation, right on! Bethpage Green has been playing with reduced pesticide rates for a while with the help of Rossi and Jennifer Grant, check out this link and this one too.
Easy to see the natural beauty of the site in this video.

Here are some effluent links for your reading pleasure, most are pro's, but the last one describes one of the con's, all good reads.

Using Effluent Water on Your Golf Course - MSU Turf Library
Waste Water Reuse for Golf Course Irrigation - The book
Effluent Water Encourages Turfgrass Growth - University of Florida Turfgrass Department Study
Effluent Study - Case Study - Foliar Damage Associated with Effluent Use on Mixed Landscapes

JT GOESFORETHEGREEN with Audubon Classic

2009-06-20T13:41:00.004-04:00

The Audubon Classic is a new service/certification through Audubon International. The program is much like their Signature service/certification that delivers a high standard for new properties, but deals with the restoration/reconstruction of older properties.

From Audubon International:
"Owners and managers of properties with existing land uses have expressed interest in joining a program of similar rigor to our Audubon Signature Program for new developments. These properties include ones being redeveloped or going through restoration for improvement, while maintaining the same use. The Audubon Classic Program is based upon Audubon International’s experience working with multiple property types and also takes into account that some properties have been developed for certain uses and might be constrained by the prior development. Like the Audubon Signature Program, the Audubon Classic Program takes an approach that is flexible and adaptable to almost any type of existing property, including redevelopment and restoration projects. Membership is open to existing properties in any country."

Teeing off the programs first property is Justin Timberlakes new club Mirimichi, formerly Big Creek Golf Course, located just north of Memphis.
Here's an article from Mephis's own commercialappeal.com describing his efforts.

"Sustainable Moments" care of GCSAA

2009-06-12T16:12:00.004-04:00

Hand picking weeds and using quick cupplers, a few of the things we can do to reduce over use of resources.

Club Car and SolarDrive

2009-05-28T18:40:00.004-04:00

Just came upon this tidbit from the GCSAA

"Club Car has entered a marketing agreement with SolarDrive, a Denmark-based company that specializes in solar technology for mobile applications. The two companies will promote the use of solar energy for commercial and golf accounts in the U.S. and globally. SolarDrive designs and engineers vehicle canopies built with solar cells that can capture and transfer solar energy to electric-powered vehicles. The canopies transfer between 180 and 360 watts of energy to a vehicle’s battery system. Club Car says it hopes the availability of solar power will encourage facilities with gas-powered fleets to switch to electric vehicles."

Check out the SolarDrive Club Car on The Price is Right's earth day special, fast forward to 6:30. (I'll never get use to Drew Carry)

Even Ernie Els likes it!

Golf Resort reaches Green Suites rating

2009-05-27T10:41:00.007-04:00

I just came upon a news release about how Northern Bay Golf Resort just received it's "3 leaf" rating within the Green Suites certification program. Here's a little more info from greensuites.com
Green Suites® International is proud of the many environmental efforts the lodging industry has implemented. Many are our customers, some are not. Regardless, with gratitude and encouragement, we wish to recognize and honor hotels for what they have done to protect the planet.

What is Green Suites® CERTIFIED Green Hotel program?
It is an environmental marketing program designed to provide recognition and support for hotels seeking to become green, greener or greenest.

What environmental efforts qualify?
● Linen Reuse Program ● Water Efficient Toilets and Showerheads
● Non-Toxic Cleaning Chemicals ● Lighting Retrofit ● Energy Management System ● or any effort that saves water and energy, reduces waste and prevents toxicity and pollution.

Why be Certified?
According to the Travel Industry Association, over 60 million travelers and 78% of all Americans consider themselves environmentally conscious, with the majority willing to pay a premium for hotels with environmental programs.

Why Green Suites® CERTIFIED Green Hotel program?
As the lodging industry’s leading supplier of environmental products and programs, we’ve provided over 3000 hotels in 50 states and 40 countries with the products and programs that have saved billions of gallons of water, prevented over 50 million amenity packages from entering landfills and reduced global warming CO2 emissions by 300,000 tons since our founding in 1993. We are respected around the globe for our work and understanding of environmental issues.

Does our hotel have to be completely green to qualify?
Not at all, the Green Suites® International Certification Program is intended to reward and encourage hotels for what they have done, not for what they haven’t. There are very few truly green hotels in the world, but there are 1000s of hotels who have performed many important environmental initiatives that have positively impacted the environment. Green Suites® Certification is offered in 1-5 leaf ratings.

Water Conservation with Gary Player

2009-05-26T16:11:00.007-04:00

From the UgMO website:

I recently learned about UgMO from this New York Times article, and I'm excited about it's potential.
So what is UgMO?

"UgMO™ is the most advanced wireless underground monitoring system available today. Its web application package feeds off data provided by its patent-protected underground sensors and wireless communications system. It displays real time conditions and provides comprehensive intelligence and predictive actions.

Our advanced web application capabilities are complemented by a professional staff of agronomists. They help you establish health- and performance-optimizing operating threshold ranges, evaluate your data and current practices, and refine your existing programs. Together we will help you stay in the UgMO™ Zone. The results, optimal turf conditions and real savings, will generate a strong and lasting return on investment.

UgMO™ is a proven cost saver. In most cases, users have cut their water consumption by at least 20%. These cost savings result from improved water, fertilizer and energy consumption, more efficient use of labor and better plant health. There are other benefits as well. The agronomic benefits include more efficient salinity management, uniform irrigation, deeper rooting, predictive disease control and healthier, more stable conditions. There are environmental benefits as well like water conservation, reduced use of phosphates, nitrates and pesticides, a reduced carbon/water footprint and regulatory compliance."

Stumpy Lake GC - Virginia Beach

2009-05-26T15:50:00.006-04:00

I found this chilled out moment in Virginia Beach while searching for some info.

"Stumpy Lake golf course in Virginia Beach is an amazing place. It's a golf course in the middle of a wildlife refuge and it works. A wonderful place for the entire environmentally attuned family to enjoy. A golfer's and a photographer's paradise".

I Can't seem to embed it, so go here to view.

Video Interview - Dan Dinelli

2009-05-24T17:07:00.001-04:00

From the GCSAA

Dan Dinelli, CGCS North Shore Country Club in Glenview, Ill., has recently been selected by GCSAA as the recipient of the 2009 President's Award for Environmental Stewardship. GCSAA TV spoke with Dinelli about this award and his philosophy of integrated pest management, and input reduction.

More GolfDom

2009-05-22T15:25:00.005-04:00

Although I've posted a bunch of Larry Aylward's articles in the past, he keeps putting out great reviews of our industry's relationship with the environment. Here's the latest batch:

Mining for Molecules
If you were a chemical company that manufactures pesticides for the golf course maintenance industry, how would you approach these tumultuous times?

Rounds for Research
Carolinas GCSA program will auction golf rounds to benefit turfgrass research. This is the definition of a win-win situation.

The World of Water to Come
What will golf course irrigation look like in 2025?

Keep it up Larry.

Toro looks at Biodiesel

2009-05-22T15:06:00.005-04:00

I've posted before about Golfdom's great articles in the past, but they also produce quite a few podcasts. In this one, Golfdom's Larry Aylward speaks with Steve Wood, manager of The Toro Co's commercial test engineering department, about Toro's role in implementing biodiesel technology.

Gabcast! Revving Up for Biodiesel Technology #1

Video Interview - David Phipps

2009-05-22T12:17:00.000-04:00

From GCSAA

GCSAA member David Phipps discusses the environmental programs he follows at Stone Creek Golf Course in Portland, Ore.

Video Interview - Darren Davis

2009-05-22T12:14:00.002-04:00

From GCSAA

Darren Davis, superintendent at Olde Florida Golf Club in Naples, Fla., shares how he has used native plants to reduce irrigation, fertilization and labor needs at his facility.

Video Interview - Tim Haskins

2009-05-22T12:07:00.004-04:00

From GCSAATV

Superintendent Tim Haskins manages a unique course built on an abandoned quarry in Naples and uses just one variety of paspalum for the entire course.

2011 - do or die time?

2009-05-21T12:36:00.003-04:00

In a recent Golf Industry Magazine article, Pat Jones discusses the future of our industry.
From the article:
"By 2011, the golf world will be very different in many ways. It will be less stupid, because stupidity is gradually being rooted out by evolution. It will continue to grow its reputation as an environmentally positive business activity, because it will die if it doesn't."
You couldn't be more right Pat, but one sentence?

GEO is my Hero

2009-05-21T09:29:00.008-04:00

Ha, that's the best title I could come up with. Why my "hero"? Well, the Golf Environment Organisation (yes that is a S not a Z) have created what appears to be a great resource for golf courses to learn about environmental issues. Our industry needs this.

Welcome to the Golf Environment Organisation from Benjamin Warren on Vimeo.

Recently GEO released a new website and certification program. To bring you up to speed as to who and what the GEO is, I've covered them a couple times before - here and here. After an hour of perusing the program, much of which is not yet on the site, this post covers my initial impressions.

Basically any golf facility, new development or tour/event can sign up. For a facility the process is pretty simple, and I've compared it to Audubon Internationals (AI) Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses program to give some perspective.

1. Register
* Upload basic data & environmental policy - They're not kidding when they say basic, but it does give your club the opportunity to show what your environmental goals are.
* Make a commitment to responsible management. - A commitment that puts you on the map, literally. A little side note from my ego, I used google maps for this purpose before anyone else, just saying. haha.

2. Improve
* Use GEO Knowledge and EMS Toolkit - This stuffs pretty good, probably the best overview of all things golf/environment on the web, behind gorforethegreen.blogspot.com . I'll dive into it a bit more in the future, perhaps in an interview.
* Get support from golf federations / local NGO's - This is an interesting step, I like it a lot. I'll find out more.

3. Certify
* Upload detailed data within three years - From what I've seen of this, it's comparable to what AI asks within their certification criteria. I'm going to interview some of the clubs that are already certified and I'll give you specifics on this in the future.
* Appoint GEO accredited verifier for assessment visit - I'm getting more info on this too, stay tuned.

4. Verify
* On-site evaluation with constructive feedback - I love that this is done by an accredited GEO verifyer and not a volunteer like in AI's program but you've got to wonder, if you are paying between 1,200 and 2,900 Pounds per certification cycle (3yrs.) are they likely to fail you? Audubon International requires volunteer reviewers to have no connections to the golf course (members, employees, owners), it's easy to see the transparency in that.
* Certification awarded / pending / rejected - Sounds good.

5. Re-certify
* Repeat steps 2 - 4 within three years - As a matter of perspective, Audubon International requires that you reach the next step every two years with an annual due of $250 USD. This ends up being at least 1/4 of the price of the GEO program.
* GEO Certification requires continual improvement - Excellent! I hope the requirements will increase through time to reflect what the industry has learned. 5 Years ago the market was very different, and this change will grow exponentially within the next five.

So, is the GEO program better than AI's? No. Comparable maybe, but I don't yet see the significant advantage. If I discover otherwise I'll post a review.

Do we need another certification program? Perhaps. Some Superintendents tell me that AI's program falls short, and why else would companies like Kemper Sports create their own program?

Overall, I'm thrilled to see this new development in our industry and the fact that they've included events is ground braking. Good on them, and I wish the program great success.

Here's another source for you, europeantour.com

Kemper Sports Goes Fore The Green

2009-05-08T15:40:00.009-04:00

Although most golf management companies have an environmental program (which usually consists of Audubon Certifications and other lesser known stewardship rating programs), Kemper Sports out of Illinois has created a new program "Green To A Tee" that their own courses are aspiring to reach. This really raises the bar in our industry, great job Kemper.

(Videos too big for my page, go here)

From their website:

"The Green to a Tee program encompasses environmentally focused initiatives within several core areas of facility operations, including:
· Golf course maintenance
· Habitat management
· Water conservation
· Energy usage
· Recycling
· “Green” vendor utilization
· Staff education and training
In addition to formalizing the company’s policy on environmental practices at both the corporate and property levels, the Green to a Tee program arms the more than 5,000 KemperSports staffers throughout the U.S. and Puerto Rico, with tools and training in environmentally-friendly practices that they can implement on the job and in their homes".

Sounds like an excellent program, I'm currently setting up a time with Kemper Sports Executive Vice President, Jim Seeley to learn more about the four steps mentioned in the video.

But what about the golf courses not managed by Kemper Sports? How can they be involved in steps beyond Audubon? (I know it was on your mind) Well I suppose those clubs can check out this site.

Golf Not Green In Middle East - AFED Report

2009-05-08T08:59:00.008-04:00

With the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship (European Tour), Dubai Desert Classic (1st European Tour event held in the middle East), Dubai Ladies Masters (Ladies European Tour), and the first Dubai World Championship (European Tour) coming up in November of this year, it's no wonder there's a golf boom in the Arab states. According to the Arab Forum for Environment and Development (AFED), the increase of development (from 16 golf courses in 22 Arab states to 40 courses within the next few years) is an unsustainable use of resources. From the report:

"A particularly striking example of the conflict that exists between rapid economic development and scarce water sources is the recent boom in the construction of golf courses in certain parts of the region. In fact, most of the current and planned golf courses are in Egypt and the Gulf region, particularly the United Arab Emirates, where water sources are already low, even by regional standards. Expansion of water-intensive projects like grass golf courses cannot go on unchecked, especially with meagre investments to develop sustainable desalination technologies. There are plans to increase the sixteen golf courses operating in the GCC countries now to 40 in the near future. In most cases, golf courses in the region are irrigated with desalinated sea water, treated effluent or a combination of the two. A 2007 report released by the international consultants KPMG estimated the use of water for each golf course in the region at an average of 1.16 million cubic metres per year, reaching 1.3 million cubic meters in Dubai, enough to cover the water consumption of 15,000 inhabitants. Using such an amount of water on leisure projects in an arid desert throws up questions about sustainability and how could this infringe on the water needs of the local community. This is not at all a call to impede development, but rather to allocate more resources towards inventing innovative environmentally-friendly desalination methods and reliable saline agriculture techniques, suitable for the arid desert environment".

The European Tour, an obvious influence on this rise of development, has "pledged ongoing support for the Golf Environment Organisation" (GEO) which is currently creating New Golf Course Development Guidelines. I hope they consider these guidelines when reviewing new venues for European Tour Championships.

The European Tour has stepped up action on European soil already with the commitment to make the Ryder Cup "environmentally sustainable".

Here is a great synopsis of the report by The National.

National Post - 25 most influencial figures in Canadian golf

2009-05-05T22:58:00.003-04:00

Looks like I came in 26th again, here's the link.

My favs:
9 | JEFF CALDERWOOD, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, NATIONAL GOLF COURSE OWNERS' ASSOCIATION
19 | THOMAS MCBROOM, GOLF ARCHITECT
22 | IAN ANDREW, ARCHITECT, WEIR GOLF DESIGN

Note to Robert Thompson: Where are the superintendents???

Check out Roberts blog.

Questioning Compost?

2009-05-04T11:10:00.004-04:00

Posted below is a common question I'm asked. I've posted a number of links, but I'd like to know what you have to say. Post your answers, stories, and solutions in the comments section.

"I'd love to compost, but it stinks and I can't have my neighbors always complaining about the smell. Is their any way to prevent the stench?"

Article dealing with common compost problems of grass clippings, diseased plants, and herbicide and fertilizer residue.

Article dealing with Grass Cycling, Composting of grass clippings and dealing with chemical residues.

Great posting dealing with the smell of grass clippings specifically.

USGA article

Best Management Practices

2009-05-01T12:35:00.005-04:00

Created by The Alabama Department of Environmental Management, with help from Auburn University and financial assistance from the EPA, this two part video series discusses the Best Management Practices on golf courses. It's a great overview, basic, but informative.

More golf courses are going Out on a Limb!

2009-04-23T14:55:00.005-04:00

To my regular readers... I apologize for not posting much in the last month but as you know I run my own business (Ou on a Limb) consulting to golf courses throughout Canada on various environmental issues. This spring has been my best yet, with an increase of clients who want to go beyond industry standards to anticipate and participate in positive environmental change. Our industry is lucky to have so many owners, superintendents and consultants who are dedicated to our planet, and I guess that makes our planet pretty lucky too.

Hope you had a fantastic Earth Day, keep up the good work!

Please take a second and review my company website - www.ooal.ca - It's a work in progress, final draft will come soon.

Earth Friendly Golf Balls?

2009-03-19T10:08:00.006-04:00

Follow this link to hear a Golf Smarter podcast with the Putting Doctor Glen Coombe who focuses on putting for the first 34 minutes but then begins to focus on the Dixon Earth Ball and speaks of some very interesting facts associated with this eco-friendly product.

I've covered concern over golf balls before, here.

Sea Shells, Seas Shells, Down by the Seashore Paspalum

2009-03-12T17:30:00.005-04:00

I've heard a lot of buzz on Seashore Paspalum, seems like a miracle grass to me! So I've collected a bunch of links and a great little video to help us all better understand this seemingly amazing grass.

Seashore Paspalum - Richard L. Duble, Extension Turfgrass Specialist, Texas Cooperative Extension,The Texas A&M University System

First Course to go all out with SeaDwarf Seashore Paspalum - Hammock Bay G&CC

SeaIsle 1 - Certified Seashore Paspalum

Down by the Seashore - USGA Greens Section, Larry Gilhuly

A Tired Topic?

2009-03-12T13:19:00.007-04:00

Readers of goforethegreen.blogspot.com know that I'm a fan of any attempt to conserve water, the reduction of pesticides and fertilizers. Although I'm interested in the concept of artificial turf from this prospective, I do have some concerns over leaching and exposure of possible toxins, read up on past Artificial Turf articles here.

Recently I came upon some studies conducted by Environment and Human Health Inc out of North Haven Connecticut USA. The EHHI are "dedicated to protecting human health from environmental harms through research, education and promotion of sound public policy". I've read through their report called Artificial Turf: Exposures to Recycled Tire Crumbs Used on Synthetic Turf Fields, Playgrounds and as Mulch, and it offers quite a bit of insight into the products.

Here's a summary of the report from EHHI:

The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station study conclusively demonstrates that the tire crumbs and tire mulch release chemical compounds into the air and ground water. Thus, tire crumbs constitute a chemical exposure for humans and the environment.

It is clear that the recycled rubber crumbs are not inert, nor is a high-temperature or severe solvent extraction needed to release metals, volatile organic compounds, or semi-volatile organic compounds. The release of airborne chemicals and dust is well established by the current information. The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station research conclusively demonstrates that release can occur under ambient conditions experienced in the summer in Connecticut.

Those published health assessments that indicate de minimis risk should not be applied to the synthetic turf paradigm and may not be appropriate for playgrounds with open layers of recycled tire crumbs.

Health endpoints of concern are numerous, including acute irritation of the lungs, skin, and eyes, and chronic irritation of the lung, skin, and eyes. Knowledge is somewhat limited about the effects of semi-volatile chemicals on the kidney, endocrine system, nervous system, cardiovascular system, immune system, developmental effects and the potential to induce cancers.

There are still data gaps that need to be filled in and additional studies are warranted.

It is prudent to conclude that there will be human exposures to chemicals released during the use of synthetic turf fields.

The excess amount of zinc in the rubber tire mulch makes it unacceptable to be used in gardens.

Obviously there are reasons for concern over the products mentioned in the report and I can't imagine they'll be around much longer with this kind of press. I am unaware of artificial turf that does not use the "recycled tire crumb" as a base, if you know of any please post a link in the comments section.

Here's a video of Dr David Smith from the EHHI talking about issues related to synthetic turf. Very informative!

Urine for a Surprise!

2009-03-12T07:02:00.005-04:00

Restroom facilities can often be an expensive part of the golf course infrastructure. Course management must ask themselves how can we manage the waste? Do we tie it in to the municipal system or develop our own water treatment facility?

Well now I suppose there is a new option. I suppose.

Bobcat feeding on Deer at Seabrook Golf Club

2009-03-05T23:52:00.002-05:00

Warning, not for people with a sensitive stomach.

Greg Norman and friends from the Environmental Institue for Golf

2009-03-05T23:44:00.002-05:00

As mentioned in previous posts, Greg Norman is a strong voice for environmental stewardship in our industry, here's a short video about the importance of community friendly golf courses.

Greg Norman on the Importance of Community-Friendly Golf Courses @ Yahoo! Video

Precise Mower - the robots are taking over!

2009-03-05T15:02:00.005-05:00

Electric mowers are becoming more popular because of their quietness, consistent reel speed and the cost of fuel. Some companies are looking at going even further and offering a robotic product that is pre-programed to mow at particular heights, speeds, patterns and frequencies.

The RG3 (Robotic Greens Mower 3) uses two lead acid batteries to run its 24-volt DC motor, and one to run its computer, offering about three hours of mowing before needing to be recharged. It weighs 650 pounds and goes 3.5 miles per hour. What do you think?

ONTARIO COSMETIC PESTICIDE BAN

2009-03-04T22:01:00.008-05:00

Click above graph to see source.

Canadian municipalities have been banning the use of Cosmetic Pesticides for a number of years, now Ontario has officially stepped in and will be making it a provincial law.

“We have fulfilled our commitment to ban the sale and use of cosmetic pesticides in Ontario. I'm proud to say that, when the ban takes effect on Earth Day, we will have eliminated this unnecessary risk to our environment, our families, and especially our children.” – John Gerretsen, Minister of the Environment

I've been reporting on the possibility, numerous drafts and responses of the Ontario Cosmetic Pesticide Ban since I started this blog, now the McGuinty Government has released the regulations and I've got mixed impressions.

I'll be covering this issue a lot over the next week, this first entry will review the facts of the legislation as it relates to golf courses. I've added some comments and clarification in green. I've tried to remain unbiased, but I couldn't help myself at some points.

Just a side note, I'm a very passionate environmentalist but I get the impression that some of the features in this legislation are not about protecting the environment and I'm afraid that they will cause some confusion amongst the public, you'll see which ones I mean.

Ontario Regulation 63/09

Golf courses, accreditation by integrated pest management body

18. (1) If a pesticide mentioned in section 16 is used in relation to a golf course, the owner or operator of the golf course must ensure that the golf course is accredited by an integrated pest management body that has been approved by the director for the purposes of this section.

According to section 16, Class 9 pesticides include this list here.

Although the regulations do not mention the name or details of the "integrated pest management body", it is safe to assume they are referring to the IPM Accreditation Program developed by the IPM-PHC Council of Ontario. It is not mentioned what, if any, changes will be made to the program other than those mentioned in the Annual Report, see Section 19 (scroll down).

(2) Subject to subsection (3), the owner or operator of a golf course is exempt from subsection (1) until the later of the following dates:
1. April 22, 2012.
2. The second anniversary of the first day pesticides are used on the golf course.

For example if I'm the superintendent of GoForeTheGreen Golf Club and I do not apply a Class 9 product until July 18th of 2010, then I will not have to fulfill the requirements under this regulation until July the 18th of 2012. Or, if my golf club does not open until 2020 and I first apply pesticides on June 30th of 2020, then I must be accredited by June 30th of 2022.

(3) Subsection (2) applies if the golf course is registered by an integrated pest management body mentioned in subsection (1) before the later of the following dates and the registration is maintained:
1. April 22, 2010.
2. The first day pesticides are used on the golf course.

Meaning, get IPM Accredited by April 22 of 2010 or else you cannot use the Class 9 products until you are IPM accredited.

(4) If the owner or operator of a golf course has taken steps to meet the condition set out in subsection (3) and the Director is of the opinion that meeting that condition would cause undue hardship to the owner or operator of the golf course, the Director may, in writing, specify a later date by which the golf course must be registered by an integrated pest management body mentioned in subsection (1) for the purposes of subsection (3).

If your late, you've got to kiss some ass before being allowed to use the Class 9 products. Ha! I'm pretty sure they won't be handing many of these out.

(5) For the purposes of this section and sections 19, 20 and 21, the operator of a golf course is a person who is responsible for managing or supervising the golf course and includes a golf course superintendent or manager.

This is where I find it a little confusing and I'll be trying to get some clarification. Read the above one more time, doesn't it seem like they are referring to an employee? However, section 19.4.6 refers to "the golf course’s integrated pest management agent or another person approved in writing by the integrated pest management body for the purposes of this section". So that means that there may be some exceptions, but I can't find more details on that.

For details on the current Pesticide Applicators License go here.

Golf courses, annual report

19. (1) The owner or operator of a golf course on which a pesticide mentioned in section 16 is used shall ensure that an annual report is prepared in accordance with this section.

(2) The annual report mentioned in subsection (1) shall cover the period from January 1 to December 31 in a year in which a pesticide mentioned in section 16 is used on the golf course and shall be prepared before June 30 in the following year.

So my 2010 records must be submitted by June 30th 2011. FYI, you'll notice down in Section 20, subsection 7 it notes that subsection 1, referring to the public meetings, does not apply until January 1, 2012. So I think it means that I must turn in my 2012 records by June 30th 2013, but I must first show them to the public by December 1st 2012.

(3) The annual report mentioned in subsection (1) shall be prepared in a form approved by the Director.

This format? More than likely will be released through the IPM Council.

(4) The annual report mentioned in subsection (1) shall set out the following information with respect to the use of Class 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 pesticides on the golf course:

1. The name of each pesticide ingredient contained in the pesticides used and the reasons for the use of pesticides containing those ingredients.

For example:
Product: Compass
Active Ingredient: Trifloxystrobn
Pest: Brown Patch

2. The quantity in kilograms of each pesticide ingredient used.

Total Product Used: 905 grams
Total Active Ingredient: .18 oz

3. If an annual report was prepared previously, an explanation of any differences between the information provided under paragraphs 1 and 2 and the information provided under those paragraphs in the most recently prepared annual report.

4. A map or plan of the golf course showing all application areas.

This is new, but a fantastic feature that will help staff monitor hot spots in the future. I've been doing these maps for years, overlapping them with the local watershed, soil types, habitat zones, buffer zones, and water quality monitoring sites.

5. An explanation of how maintaining accreditation by the integrated pest management body minimized the use of the pesticide ingredients on the golf course and how it will minimize the use during the year in which the report is prepared.

Self explanatory - not sure if the program itself will really accomplish what they are setting out to do here, let's keep in mind that superintendents have been doing this kind of work for years. Don't forget a golf course must recover the cost of products they use, while landscape companies (who are not exempt) make more money. This is one point I hope the Registered Nurses Association of Ontario keep in mind as they continue to lobby the government to not exempt golf courses from the ban. I hope they give our industry a fair chance to demonstrate and prove our commitment to the environment. In fact, if they are interested, I could walk them through it.

6. The name, contact information, registration number and signature of the golf course’s integrated pest management agent or another person approved in writing by the integrated pest management body for the purposes of this section.

Employee? Or contractor?

7. Confirmation by the owner or a representative of the owner of the golf course that the report is complete.

8. Any other information that, in the opinion of the Director, is relevant to the use of pesticides and with respect to which the Director has notified the owner or operator of the golf course.

Does this mean that the director can request even more information than what golf courses are already providing?

(5) Subsection (1) does not apply until January 1, 2010.

Golf courses, public inspection of annual report

20. (1) The owner or operator of a golf course on which a pesticide mentioned in section 16 is used shall ensure that, on an annual basis, the annual report mentioned in subsection 19 (1) is made available for inspection by members of the public in accordance with the following rules:

1. The annual report shall be made available for inspection before December 1 in the year in which it is required to be prepared.

Should this read "The annual report shall be made available for inspection before December 1 in the season prior in which it is required to be prepared"? I ask because in section 19.2 it reads "The annual report mentioned in subsection (1) shall cover the period from January 1 to December 31 in a year in which a pesticide mentioned in section 16 is used on the golf course and shall be prepared before June 30 in the following year."

You'll notice down in subsection 7 it notes that subsection 1 does not apply until January 1, 2012. So I think it means that I must turn in my 2012 records by June 30th 2013, but I must first show them to the public by December 1st 2012.

2. Not later than 15 days before the annual report is made available for inspection, the report shall be prepared and clauses (6) (a) and (c) shall have been complied with.

FYI, Clauses 6A and 6C were not part of the IPM Accreditation Program previously. See them below.

3. Not later than 15 days before the annual report is made available for inspection, i. notice shall be published in a newspaper having general circulation in the area where the golf course is located, setting out,

A. the name and address of the golf course,

B. the name and telephone number of the owner or a representative of the owner of the golf course, and

C. the date on which and the time and place at which the annual report will be available for inspection, and
ii. subject to subsection (2), a copy of the notice shall be given to the occupants of each property that abuts or is within 100 metres of the golf course.

So if the annual report must be available for inspection by the public before December 1st 2010, then I must place an ad in a local newspaper declaring the information in A, B and C (above) by November 15th, because I must present it by the end of the month. I guess this means that as soon as the snow mold /winter application is down, irrigation system is blown out, the greens have been covered, and the whole operations of the club has been laid to bed, the superintendent/agent must compile all of this information in to an easy to understand presentation and hold a public meeting.

4. A copy of the notice mentioned in sub paragraph 3 i shall be kept by the owner or operator for a period of at least two years after its publication.

Makes sense. These reports will be good to refer to from year to year.

(2) For the purpose of clause 38 (1) (c) of the Act, if more than 50 persons must be notified in order to meet the requirement in sub paragraph 3 ii of subsection (1) and the Director is satisfied that it would be unduly onerous to give notice in accordance with clause 38 (1) (a) or (b) of the Act or Ontario Regulation 228/07 (Service of Documents) made under the Act, the notice is sufficiently given if it is given in a manner approved by the Director.

I'll have to dive into this later, but I think it basically means that if you are a downtown course and you could potentially have thousands of people show up, the Director will allow for a lesser means of notice.

(3) In approving a manner of giving notice under subsection (2), the Director may specify that the manner of giving notice is sufficient for the purpose of subsequent inspections of annual reports as long as there is no change in the circumstances relevant to the Director’s approval.

Basically, if the director approves it once, they'll know that the same should go in the future.

(4) The owner or operator of the golf course or a representative of the owner or operator of the golf course shall notify the Director of any changes in the circumstances referred to in subsection (3).20

(5) For a period of at least five years after an annual report mentioned in subsection 19 (1) is prepared,

(a) if the property where the golf course is located has a building that is accessible to the public, a copy of the annual report shall be kept in the building and given, on request, free of charge to any person who presents himself or herself at the building;

So in the year 2017 I'm going to go to a friends wedding at a golf course in Ontario. In the clubhouse is a copy of the 2012 report that must be accessible to me "on request and free of charge". If I'm Joe Public, how am I going to understand such a report? If I see that area X was sprayed with XX gallons of Mecoprop Dicamba, what does this mean to me? I know that this legislation is meant to get rid of those who spray needlessly and help make pesticide applicators accountable, I just fail to see how this information is going to make any sense to Joe Public, no offense Joe.

(b) if the property where the golf course is located does not have a building that is accessible to the public, a copy of the annual report shall be kept in a building on the property to which members and guests of the golf course have access and shall be given, on request, free of charge to any person who has access to the building;

Same rebuttal as above.

(c) a copy of the annual report shall be given, on request, to a provincial officer or the Director immediately; and

(d) a copy of the annual report shall be given, on request, to any person free of charge within seven days after the request.

So I can call the club up one week before the wedding and it will be ready for me. Ha.

(6) A copy of the most recently prepared annual report mentioned in subsection 19 (1),

(a) shall be displayed in a prominent place in the building mentioned in clause (5) (a) or (b);

(b) shall be given to any person free of charge, if the person requests a copy during ordinary business hours at the building mentioned in clause (5) (a) or (b); and

(c) shall be posted on a website approved by the Director.

I'm pretty sure this is referring to just the hard data, nevertheless it's on a Ministry of the Environment website. This makes it easier for Joe Public to look it up and have no clue what he's looking at from the comfort of his own home. Ha.

(7) Subsection (1) does not apply until January 1, 2012.

Golf courses, public meeting

21. If an annual report is required to be made available for inspection by members of the public under section 20, the owner or operator of the golf course or a representative of the owner or operator must attend at the date, time and place of the inspection and present the annual report to the members of the public who are present.

So that's that. Stay tuned for more details and evaluation of the regulation.

36 Hole Golf Course With No Grass?

2009-03-02T11:35:00.007-05:00

When it comes to introducing golf to new areas of the world, the environment/climate is usually one hazard that requires some ingenuity and resourcefulness to overcome. For example we've covered the use of Artificial Turf and Grey Water in desert areas, and even Urban Golf, and Pasture Golf , but Ice Golf?

Why is it "environmentally friendly"? I'm not sure that it particularly is, but I can't see why it particularly isn't either. There are a few indoor golf facilities in cooler climates which prove to be energy intensive and seldom attract the crowds needed to sustain business. However on the permanent ice on the West coast of Greenland in an area called Uummannaq, 300 miles within the Arctic Circle, they seem to be able to attract golfers despite the -30 C weather.

Each year since 1997 Uummannaq hosts the World Ice Golf Championships which has seen golfers from all over the world compete for the title, they even have a "Uummannaq Ice Golf School" set up by the municipality to help locals and visitors understand the rules and techniques specific to Ice Golf. The courses don't consist of much; a designated tee box, and a smoothend "green" with a flag. Golfers use brightly colored balls that stand out on the white back ground so they can easily find there balls, I wonder if speed-of-play is a concern?

The championships are coming up soon, March 19th-24th, so be sure to pack your parka!

Uummannaq is not the only place you can play Ice Golf, check out this funny video from Georgetown PEI Canada about their attempts to set up a course, and championship on a frozen harbor.

Raising the roof!

2009-02-28T09:54:00.006-05:00

I'm a big fan of multi-land-use strategies, and even a bigger fan of the "multi-use" concept when adapted to infrastructure and buildings. When I learned of the Bronx Croton Water Filtration Plant design that is to incorporate water purification, the worlds largest green roof, public park space and a 9 hole golf course with driving range, I was obviously quite pleased.
Check out the article from the Architects Newspaper
Check the location on our map feature under Multi-Land-Use-Strategy

Bulgaria needs more golf courses?

2009-02-02T19:22:00.008-05:00

For a country who has seen a fair bit of drought in the past I was surprised to see they are considering the construction of 26 new golf courses. Check out these stories here, and h er e to see the motivation behind this artificial golf boom.

A little background info, here's Bulgaria.

This map demonstrates just one of the key contributing factors to drought in the region, historical precipitation deficit.

The reason for me pointing this out is to demonstrate how our industry is still making mistakes, and these mistakes reflect on the whole, even those who are going above and beyond industry standards to preserve fresh water. I hope that Bulgaria learns from the experiences in Australia, Spain, Greece, America and Canada.

Green Options at the Golf Industry Show

2009-01-29T10:39:00.008-05:00

Regular readers of goforethegreen know that I rarely mention products by name, and that I prefer to refer to management techniques that use less man-made, non-renewable inputs. Recently I was reviewing some products and services that will be showcased at the upcoming Golf Industry Show in New Orleans, and I happen to come across a few examples of products and technologies that stay within the realm of goforethegreen's mission. So over the next week I'll be showcasing some of the products with strong green attributes, and contribute to the overall sustainability of the golf industry.

As our industry strives to become more efficient, for environmental and economic reasons, I enjoy seeing products that aim to achieve both of those results. I recently had a brief email conversation with Kevin Davies of Nutrient Technology Partners, makers of NutriLife - a fertilizer meta-catalyst, which enables a higher fertilizer efficiency rate of 25% or more.Davies says "In very quick terms, we allow the nutrients in fertilizer to be made more available to the plant – in this case turf – and therefore the user can actually reduce the amount of nutrients (fertilizer) they need to use. This use less approach is in itself the very beginning of being more environmentally responsible, but with our product they still get high quality turf. Our ability to increase the amount of nutrients that get into the plant by 50 to 75% allows superintendents and lawn care companies to trust this ability to reduce the amount of nutrients they put in the soil. In addition to using less, their is a nice economic reward to the user as even with the price of our product added to the cost of the fertilizer they save money – i.e. spend less. This is key as some of the “Greener” approaches cost too much money for the users to adopt, even if it is better for the environment they can’t afford to make the change, or they don’t deliver the quality the user is looking for. This combination of using less, and getting more into the plant gives us the environmental benefit we are all looking for – leave less".

I like the "use less", "spend less" and "leave less" approach.

Davies makes a very interesting point, it is hard to adopt some of the green options when they cost more, especially during a recession. I think in the mean time products like this have a very good place in the market.

I did notice in some of NutriLifes promotional materials that a study at Auburn University revealed that the NutriLife fertilizer significantly out-performed untreated fertilizer in a recent study. The researchers applied catalyzed 18‑5‑9 fertilizer to bentgrass at 4 pounds/1,000 square feet, and conventional 18‑5‑9 fertilizer at the same rate. Bentgrass treated with the NutriLife fertilizer had 37-percent greater average root diameter, 91-percent higher fresh root weight, and 105-percent higher fresh shoot weight.

All of that is great, but I couldn't help to notice a few other characteristics of this product that interests me. Studies have shown that NutriLife helped reduce the total amount of salt found in soil tests at Texas A&M extension service, a reduction greater than 60%. In addition, and this one I really like, Nutrient Technology Partners claim that in a Arise Research and Discovery study, NutriLife was shown to have a 48% reduction in nitrates at 12" depth, 57% in nitrates at 30" depth and decreases Phosphate leaching by 37%. The later interests me because every where I look (Michigan, Westchester, Canada) I see bans on Phosphate and calls to reduce applications of fertilizers that contain it.

Colorado WaterWise Council offers up 7 Xeriscape Principles

2009-01-28T15:37:00.009-05:00

The Colorado WaterWise Council says Xeriscaping is a combination of seven common-sense gardening principles that conserve water while creating a lush and colorful landscape environment, check out the links to their website below. Although this organization appears to target mostly homes and business, the same principles can be used in planning landscaping at golf courses.

Plan and Design
Practical Turf Areas
Select and Group Plants Appropriately
Improve the Soil
Mulch
Efficient Irrigation
Maintain the Landscape

Here are a few more xeriscaping and efficient irrigation resources courtesy of Colorado WaterWise Council.

WSU Palouse Ridge Golf Club is thirsty!

2009-01-28T13:50:00.008-05:00

Recently the state of Washington has created a $16M water reclamation scheme for the city of Pullman to help ease the pressure on the local Grand Ronde aquifer. However the local Palouse Ridge Golf Club will not be included in this plan. This seems rather strange while golf courses are being utilized by cities everywhere else in the world to filter and clean otherwise unusable runoff before being released in to the environment, some feel that perhaps the course should of had a better water plan in place to begin with!

Palouse Ridge has a great environmental management strategy already in place, find it here, where they are achieving approximately 90% irrigation efficiency, way above what most golf courses are able to achieve. Additionally they have enrolled in the Audubon Cooperative Sactuary Program.

On a side note: I love seeing when multi land use strategies are put in to place, especially on golf courses. The aerial image below illustrates where winter activities such as cross-country skiing, tobagoning and snowshoeing are encouraged on the property during the winter months.

For more information on Palouse Ridge Golf Club, check them out here.

Bat Habitat Conservation on Golf Courses

2009-01-26T09:44:00.009-05:00

A fellow Blogger, David Dodds from the UK, writes a blog called davidsbatblog.blogspot.com

As an effort to be good environmental stewards, encourage habitat, and get rid of some mosquito's, a local golf club put up Bat Boxes. David gives his readers a great first hand account to surveying these artificial habitat structures and explains the importance of such features.

Check out the post here.

I didn't want to poach Davids photographs with out permission, so here's a photo of a Box Box from GlenCairn Golf Club in Milton, Ontario, Canada. Although this box has not been successful, two identical boxes on the other side of the property have housed approximately 30 Little Brown Bats (Myotis lucifugus), for information on this species in Canada go here. For more information on Bat habitat, visit Bat Conservation International.

Here's a few examples of Bat habitat conservation on golf courses:

Warren Golf Course in Indiana built several Bat Boxes as part of their efforts to gain certification in Wildlife and Habitat Management.

Fortune Bay Resort Casino installed Bat Boxes on the golf course.

GREEN GOLF MAP

2009-01-24T12:10:00.003-05:00

Still under construction, but check out the updated map anyways.
If you have any suggestions, please email to scottjmorrison@hotmail.com

To Cull or not to Cull?

2009-01-21T10:55:00.001-05:00

Here's an interesting article evaluating the option of culling deer.

Post-Bottle Ban Options

2008-12-06T11:37:00.007-05:00

As our cities begin to consider plastic water bottle taxes and bans, we are starting to see how this will affect golf courses. The city of Toronto has recently announced its goal to ban the sale of plastic water bottles at all municipally owned facilities immediately, and at golf courses by 2011. This effort is part of the city's plan to divert 70 per cent of Toronto's waste from landfill by 2010. (not without opposition, surprised?)

A great effort, but how am I going to get a nice cold drink of water while on the 13th hole?

To begin with, the reason most golf courses use water bottles in the first place is due to the infamous cases of E-coli contamination associated with Drinking Water Coolers, specifically the 2002 case at Thunderbirds Golf Course in Phoenix.

Also, due to the recent concern of "gender bender" chemicals found in plastics (here, here, and here), non-plastic bottles are all the rage. Specifically Klean Kanteen, largely considered as the leading brand of reusable water bottles
(buy them here) of which Rosedale Golf Club (non-city owned) in Toronto is already selling.

With all of this eco-political correctness are we going to see the beverage cart (solar powered) girl (or male, or transgendered, or whatever) wearing gloves (non-latex) offering (in all official languages) to fill up your water bottle (Bisphenal A free) from a terracotta earth cistern (certified fair trade) any time soon? I hope so. ha.

If your using water coolers, check out the Minnesota Guidelines

GREEN GOLF ON THE GO

2008-12-05T21:42:00.011-05:00

The world of golf has been busy with press releases and eco-awareness this week, here's a few of the headlines:

Bag Tags Spread the Good Green Word
Evergreen and Sticks for Kids team up to offer bag tags with earth friendly messages, such as:

Go hug that tree you just hit. The shade it's creating is trying to keep you cool out there.
Nice divot. Now go fix it. That grass you're tearing up cleans the air so you can breathe a little easier.

Texas, "Green-Washed" Audubon and Getting Off of Potable Water
A great article from the Statesman - well written and truthful.

Bearwood Gets BIGGA Award
The British and International Golf Greenskeeping Association awards Bearwood Golf Club the "Innovation Prize" for the restoration and maintenance of 2 large ponds, reducing water use, composting and recycling.
Mentioned in the above article is the STRI and Syngenta Crop Protection Trials, why is this not happening in North America? I'm not sure but I'll find out soon!

Winds of Change? or Pain?
Golfers say wind turbines are too much of a distraction.

5 More To Go
Marriot is on a roll

No Birdies for Trumps New Course
More critisism on Trumps rump in the dunes

Arabian Coastline and Golf - "at one with nature"

Water Reuse Project at WSU
Washington State recieves $1 million in aid towards a $16 million in waste-water collection plan that will provide WSU and Palouse Ridge Golf Club. The Palouse Water Conservation Network offers some insight into the situation.

Florida Green Lodging Program Awards Naples Beach Hotel and Golf Club the One Palm
The property has reduced water use per laundry load by 18 percent, and utilizes organically-based fertilizers, nutrients, and pesticides on its golf course.

Golf Course Profile - Wyndance Golf Club

2008-12-04T16:49:00.012-05:00

Notable Environmental Features:

Audubon Certified in early 2008
Working towards IPM Accreditation
Native seed collection and planting program
Erosion control projects
Constructed in a retired sand quarry
Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority Watershed Stewardship Award
Designed by world-class golfer and designer Greg Norman

For a review of Wyndance Golf Club, go here.

For more information about ClubLink Membership and Wyndance Golf Club, go here

Report: Guidance for National Golf Federations of Europe

2008-12-04T10:31:00.005-05:00

The European Golf Association, in collaboration with the Golf Environment Organisation and The R&A, has produced a new report on golf and the environment, find it here.

The EGA hopes the report, Guidance For National Golf Federations, which highlights the issues that are affecting national golf federations, will encourage governing bodies to take a proactive and positive lead on environmental sustainability. My initial impression is that its very honest and takes a sincere concern about environmental issues facing the industry.

I've only browsed the report, but I'll be updating this post with my impressions once I get the chance to evaluate it's contents.

Carbon Neutral - The Next Big Buzz in Golf Tournaments?

2008-11-30T14:39:00.007-05:00

First thing first, what is Carbon Neutral?

Being carbon neutral, or having a zero carbon footprint, refers to achieving net zero carbon emissions by balancing a measured amount of carbon released with an equivalent amount sequestered or offset. Best practice for organizations and individuals seeking carbon neutral status entails reducing and/or avoiding carbon emissions first so that only unavoidable emissions are offset.
Here's some more info from www.treehugger.com

Becoming Carbon Neutral has gained popularity within some of the larger golf tournaments, here's a few examples:
2010 Ryder Cup - The Most Environmentally Sustainable Event Ever? We'll keep our eyes on this one!
Celebrity Golf Classic
2008 Cadbury Schweppes Australian PGA Championships
2008 Washington Ec0-Golf Classic
Deutsche Bank Championship Tournament
British Peruvian Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament
RockTron Charity Tournament

Addressing the issue of Carbon in the industry - great article by Golf Environment Europe
A solar powered golf cart example here
Justin Rose (Pro Aussie Golfer) commits to go Carbon Neutral

Golf Course Profile - Club de Golf Rivermead

2008-11-28T15:58:00.008-05:00

Welcome to Rivermead...

Notable Environmental Features:

Expected to be Audubon Certified within the Winter of 08/09, with assisstance provided by OOAL
Mature habitat zones with strong corridor connectivity along streams and pond features
An ESD Waste to Water System, follow this lin k for more information
Test Plot for "Biological Control of Turfgrass Snow Molds with the fungus Typhula phacorrhiza" with Dr. Tom Hsiang, Dept. Environmental Biology, University of Guelph. More Information Here
Member within the Coalition for Responsible Golf

Photographs courtesy of superintendent Dereck Powers
Interested in more information on Rivermead?
Course Photo Ga llery
Course History
Membership Information

Take A Gander At Some Goose Control Options

2008-11-26T20:38:00.007-05:00

I'll be posting on this topic often, but figured I'd need to start somewhere.

Some specie background from Wikipedia here.

A few management guidelines can be found here, and from the USGA here.

A couple interesting contraptions can be found here.

Behavior Modifications Here.

Electric and Fuel Efficient Equipment - Chainsaws

2008-11-26T17:54:00.007-05:00

We've discussed this before but not in much detail, and although this post only provides links, I plan on sourcing more information on this important topic area. You may not of considered it before, but emission restrictions will be implemented in many major metropolitan areas, the state of California has already come out with legislation that has restricted the sale of many brands. Its happening elsewhere in the states and in Canada.

But don't worry too much, the beauty of the free-market is providing many options before you'll have to dust off that Ol'Bow Saw.

Electric Chainsaws
The previous post got me thinking about electric equipment, specifically asking the question: Would it withstand the pressures that a woodland course demands of its chainsaws?
Whether they're battery powered or rely on a cord (there's lots of battery pack options now for field work) electric equipment has improved drastically in recent years. Keep in mind that electric equipment, although smaller, unable to tackle the big stuff and cannot be used while it's raining, fulfills an extremely beneficial role at urban golf courses - they are quite!
A review of Common Brand Electric Chainsaws, Here and Here (this ones better)
A review of Remington Electric Chainsaws, here
A review of Poulan Electric Chainsaws, here
A review of Makita Electric Chainsaws, here

What about the "Low Emission"/ "Fuel Efficient" options?
I know, a Treehugging Chainsaw is hard to picture, but these companies are trying:
John Deere Chainsaw Options here
A "Greener Shade of Orange" by STIHL: Products, STIHLs Mission EXCELLENT EFFORT STIHL!!!
Husqvarna offers up solutions here

Are we going to see this method on a golf course?

2008-11-26T17:20:00.005-05:00

View the video below from the 3:30 to the 9:30 point

So what do you think? In five years? 10 years? Tomorrow?
Should Toro make an energy independent utility vehicle?
Would you buy one?

Add your comments below.

The Environmental Institute for Golf

2008-11-25T12:44:00.009-05:00

Who is the Environmental Institute for Golf?

What began as a modest $200 scholarship awarded to a student in 1955 has evolved over the past 50 years into a collaborative effort of the environmental and golf communities directed at strengthening the compatibility of the game of golf with the natural environment. As the philanthropic organization of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA), The Environmental Institute for Golf (The Institute) relies upon the support of many individuals and organizations to fund programs and projects that help golf courses fulfill the environmental, recreational and economic needs of their communities. The Institute is fortunate to have more than 9,000 active donors, representing each of the United States and 67 countries worldwide, supporting its efforts. Why? They believe in the future of the game and its positive impact to a community.

In January 2003, The Institute evolved from The GCSAA Foundation, originally established in 1955, with a new name, mission and focus. The Institute concentrates on delivering programs and services involving information collection, research, education and outreach that communicate the best management practices of environmental stewardship on the golf course.

Today, The Institute funds more than $1 million annually in environmental programs, including scientific research, education, information collection, outreach and scholarships.

The Environmental Institute for Golf is committed to strengthening the compatibility of the game of golf with our natural environment.

By 2008 the EIG hopes to provide:

Collaboration between the golf and environmental communities will lead to programs and services beneficial to all who come in contact with the game of golf.
Golf course design, construction and management will implement environmental standards to strengthen the compatibility of golf and the environment.
The environmental, recreational and economic aspects of golf courses will be enhanced for their communities.

The Environmental Institute for Golf offers a ton of great resources, click on the topics below for an amazing collection of Case Studies, Research Papers and Advertisements:

Service Water Quality

Integrated Plant Management

Golf Course Siting, Design and Construction

Wildlife and Habitat Management

Energy and Waste Management

Ground Water Protection

Water Use and Conservation

All Case Studies

Follow this link for another video featuring Greg Norman.

Lend Your Ear - Pesticides and Democrats!

2008-11-25T12:14:00.006-05:00

I'm often referring to Golfdom as a great source of industry information, they provide excellent articles that evaluate trends and technologies that affect our industry.

In the most recent Pod Cast Golfdom Editor in Chief Larry Aylward conducts an excellent interview with Neil Cleveland, Director of the US Green Business for Bayer Environmental Science. Some great insight from two guys with a lot of experience in a changing industry.

Gabcast! Pesticides and Democrats #1

More Marriots become Audubon Certified

2008-11-24T23:29:00.005-05:00

As mentioned in previous posts (here and here) Marriot is on a mission to get all golf properties Audubon Certified, here's a few new ones.

Seaview GC in Florida

Willow Crest Golf Club at Oak Brook Hills Marriott Resort in Oak Brook, Ill.

And also at Marriot - Chris Flynn, Director of Grounds for Grande Pines Golf Club, located in Orlando, Fla., was named Golf Grounds Manager of the Year.

Organic Golf - The Cliffs

2008-11-13T09:59:00.009-05:00

"Organic Golf"

Are you envisioning fields of Dandelions?
Bare soil greens?
Clouds of Locusts?

Well don't, instead I want you to imagine one of the largest Golf Communities in North/South Carolina and an on-site
laboratory affiliated with Clemson University to provide industry-leading turfgrass research in the area of ORGANIC golf course management.

Wow! I'm sure the hippies on Saltspring Island are impressed, as am I.

Check it out here.

Here's the buzz:

“We are excited about teaming up with Clemson University on a project that we expect will blaze trails in research and positively impact not only our communities but the business of golf course development and management. The Cliffs decided to undertake this project because it’s the right thing to do. ‘Going green’ is beneficial for all of us –as individuals and families, for our businesses, and ultimately, for our economy as a whole. It’s a better way of living, and that’s what we seek to provide here at The Cliffs: the best place to work, live, and play in America.”
Jim Anthony, President and Founder of The Cliffs Communities.

“In five years, I’d like this Center’s findings to prove that, with a team of highly-trained professionals, a golf course can be managed in a way that actually serves to enhance the environment. It’s our hope to share the knowledge that we uncover along the way to those who are interested in using these new techniques to improve their property management practices, whether they be golf courses, athletic fields, green spaces, or private lawns.”
Daniel Brazinski, Vice President of Golf Maintenance at The Cliffs Communities.

Compost

2008-11-12T09:55:00.005-05:00

Le Maitre de Mont-Tremblant, Composting is a key part of their environmental stewardship program

I'm a big fan of composting.

I know a hand full of golf courses who are making use of their green wastes, in some cases even from resort restaurants, and using it out on the course. It's "brown, hot, stinky gold" I'm told. I've wanted to post information on composting for quite some time, so here it goes, just a bunch of links but I'll definitely source out some more case studies.

This article describes a common situation at golf courses and University campuses, they are concerned about smells, safety (a little paranoid I think) and aesthetics. All of these can be dealt with quite easily, below are a few compost links that may help you refine your techniques.

Start small:
Composting 101
The Compost Recipe
The Composting Guy (great for gardens and limited space and $)

Large Scale:
Farm technique can be modified for use at golf courses

Golf Specific Articles:
Golf Compost
Green Golf with video - MUST WATCH
R&A Article
Looks like a great article - must sign up to read whole thing.
Case Study
Great Case Study
Temporal effects of Compost and Fertilizer Applications on Nitrogen Fertility of Golf Course Turfgrass

Compost Tea
Compost Tea - I love this stuff!
More Compost Tea
Even More Compost Tea

Composting Toilets
Golf Course Dumps Portable Toilets for Composting Ones - I've used them, they are great! You'll see a lot more courses, especially in dry regions, install these soon.

I am awaiting photos from Blakburn Meadows Organic Golf Course on Salt Spring Island who are in the process of installing a home made version.

I'll be posting more info on composting, if you have any experience with composting at your course please tell us your experiences in the comment section.

Portarlington GC using stormwater

2008-11-11T22:49:00.004-05:00

The Geelong Advisor wrote a perfect article, so I'm just going to re-post it here and give them credit, enjoy!

A pipeline now connects the Portarlington water reclamation plant with the town's golf course.

The 3.5km pipeline will supply up to 50 million litres of class C recycled water a year _ more than half the club's needs to irrigate the course, gardens and clubhouse surrounds.

It replaces a temporary above-ground pipeline constructed in 2006 to provide water during the drought.
Barwon Water managing director Michael Malouf said the permanent connection would save about 30 million litres of drinking water a year and provide the golf course with a secure supply.

``The Portarlington Golf Club has been a real leader in finding alternative sources to irrigate the course, using rainwater and stormwater in past years,'' Mr Malouf said.

``While these methods provide about half the club's needs, drinking water was required to make up the shortfall.''
The existing stormwater and rainwater collection, combined with the recycled water, means the club can maintain the course without using valuable drinking water.

Mr Malouf said four other customers used water from the Portarlington plant.
``With the golf course now connected, 100 per cent of the recycled water produced at the plant is being used, mainly for viticulture,'' he said.

The golf club used a $100,000 federal community water grant to help pay for the $220,000 pipeline. It funded the balance.

Barwon Water upgraded infrastructure at the plant to improve the access to recycled water.
Golf club manager Kerry Bond said the club had developed a water-wise usage plan in 2002.
``Several years ago, the club identified long-term water supply as an issue and set about making the golf course self-sufficient in water,'' Ms Bond said.

``We are committed to environment sustainable water use, and the connection of the recycled water pipeline is the culmination of many years' work.''

Suzuki has provinces ear, now you do too!

2008-11-10T10:54:00.006-05:00

As mentioned in previous posts, the David Suzuki Foundation recommended 9 chemicals to the list of Active Ingredients proposed by the province for the Ontario Pesticide Ban. The province just released the final draft (check out Class Nine) of the law which included all of the chemicals listed by the DSF.

The province does intend to exempt Golf Courses under the following conditions and circumstances:
• The golf course must be fully accredited in integrated pest management (IPM) within three (3) years after the golf course is registered by an approved IPM accreditation body.
• There is a requirement to prepare annual reports on pesticide use explaining how pesticides will be minimized the following year.
• The reports must be presented annually at public meetings.

What do you think?
Post comments below, but even more importantly send comments to the Ontario Government.
The proposal has been posted for a 45 day public review and comment period starting November 07, 2008. If you have any questions, or would like to submit your comments, please do so by December 22, 2008 to the individual listed below.

Robert Bilyea
Senior Policy Advisor
Ministry of the Environment
Integrated Environmental Planning Division
Strategic Policy Branch
135 St. Clair Avenue West
Floor 11
Toronto Ontario
M4V 1P5
Phone: (416) 314-5605
Fax: (416) 314-2976

GREEN GOLF on the GO

2008-11-10T09:20:00.007-05:00

Every once in a while I get overwhelmed with the amount of potential posts, so instead of doing a bunch of individual posts I compile the links with a brief intro, Enjoy!

The Sports Business Jour nal has a few articles of note, you must sign up as a member to view.
Golf Without Turf - Artificial Surfaces
Golf Deals with a range of Environmental Issues

Interesting perspective! This article starts off by claiming: "For years, a golf course—or proximity to one—has been a prerequisite of the destination meeting. But as meeting planners increasingly seek to green their practices within the meetings and lodgings parameter, they are likely wondering about the green practices of the greens outside".
Read the rest of the article here.

More on the Trump fiasco.

I'll have to write an article on this topic soon, but for now here's just a peak at what is happening in Spain.
And while we're at it here's a bit more background on the concept of water trading.

Here's a bit on Ontario's water problems, from the article:
"Starting Jan. 1, 2009, industrial or commercial water users that fall within certain categories will be required to pay $3.71 for every million litres of water they take".
As of right now Golf Courses are not included within the defined "certain categories".

The above concerns could have something to do with this situation in Orangeville Ontario.

Toppoint has recently released the eCo RANGE golf Ball - "Toppoint Corporation Limited is the LEADER in golf balls manufacturing in Thailand for worldwide export." www.toppointgolf.com

Golf Courses contribute to conservation efforts, here and in some cases it's a little more complicated, like here.

More on the upcoming Ontario Pesticide Ban

2008-11-08T13:06:00.010-05:00

In response to our recent post regarding the list of nine chemicals the David Suzuki Foundation feels should be included in the Ontario Pesticide Ban - F Portenier said...
"What is the prevalence of use of these pesticides in the Golfing Industry?"

I've decided to do a bit of research for F Portenier and provide the names of active ingredients listed by DSF by providing links to approved uses and products that they can be found in. As for which ones are used for golf? A licensed exterminator can spray a schedule 1-6 pesticide (look here for details), the most common of these chemicals on golf courses would be the Glyphosate products. It is important to note that the province of Ontario does expect to exempt golf courses from any "ban" through the use of an accreditation program. My understanding is that the province is working towards updating the IPM Acreditation Program, currently adminstered through Ridgetown College.

Click here to see which orgainizations/companies are IPM Acredited under the current program.

Okay, here are the chems:

Abamectin - Used to control insect and mite pests of a range of agronomic, fruit, vegetable and ornamental crops, and it is used by homeowners for control of fire ants. Abamectin is also used as a veterinary antihelmintic.
Uses Here, Here and Here
Products Here, Here and Here

Acetamiprid - Control of Sucking-Type Insects on Leafy Vegetables, Fruiting Vegetables, Cole Crops, Citrus Fruits, Pome Fruits, Grapes, Cotton, and Ornamental Plants and Flowers.
Uses Here, Here and Here
Products Here

Glufosinate Ammonium - The herbicide is a broad spectrum herbicide which is comparatively bio-degradeable similar to glyphosate.^[1] Glyphosate was first sold by Monsanto under the tradename Roundup, but is no longer under patent. It is sold under the brand names sold under trade names Basta, Buster and Liberty. Crops have been developed (genetically engineered) which are resistant to this herbicide through the insertion of the bar gene^[2] into plants.
Uses Here,and Here
Products Here and Here

Glyphosate Acid is a Herbicide found in products typically used at golf courses, forestry, agriculture and lawn care industry. Trade names for products containing glyphosate include Gallup, Landmaster, Pondmaster, Ranger, Roundup, Rodeo, and Touchdown. It may be used in formulations with other herbicides.
Uses Here, Here, and Here
Products Here, Here (must scroll down and find Glyphosate Acid on list)

Isopropylamine Salt of Glyphosate is a Herbicide found in products typically used at golf courses, lawn care industry, forestry and agriculture.
Products Here, Here, and Here
Uses Here , Here

Metam is a soil fumigant used as a pesticide, herbicide, and fungicide.
Products found Here, and Here
Uses found Here, Here and Here

Napropamide is a herbicide mostly used for agriculture. Trade names for products containing napropamide include Devrinol and R-7465. It may also be found in formulations with other pesticides such as monolinuron, nitralin, simazine, trifluralin, tefurthrin, and tebutam. It is compatible with many other herbicides and fungicides.
Products are found Here,
Uses are found Here, and Here

Thiram is a fungicide mostly used in Agriculture. Common names include thiram (U.S.), thiuram (Japan), and TMTD (former U.S.S.R.), TMT, and TMTDS. Trade names include AAtack, Arasan, Aules, Fermide 850, Fernasan, FMC 2070, Hexathir, Mercuram, Micropearls, Nomersan, Pomarsol, Puralin, Rezifilm, Rhodiasan Express, Spotrete, Tersan, Thiosan, Thiotex, Thiramad, Thirame, Thiuramin, Thirasan, Tirampa, Tiuramyl, TMTC, TMTD 50 Borches, Trametan, Tuads, and Tulisan.
Products containing Thiram can be found Here and Here
Uses Here and Here

THE NO SPRAY ZONE

2008-11-05T11:51:00.002-05:00

nosprayzone.org is a fantastic site that aims to provide chemical free solutions to prevent Gypsy Moth outbreaks.
Here is some more info on Gypsy Moths.

Great Source of Info

2008-11-05T09:18:00.006-05:00

Early spring photo of Heron Point Golf Club, near Hamilton, Ontario Canada

My goal with GO FORE THE GREEN is to provide as much information as possible about environmental issues facing the golf industry and to explore possible solutions. In order to keep myself in the loop I check as many news sources as I can. Science Daily reports on the latest science news and research from throughout the world and has collected a number of great articles on environmental issues facing golf. Check them out below:

Wildlife and Habitat Issues

Golfers and Golf Courses Benefit from Native Grasses in Rough

Golfers Beware! Deer Ticks Lurking in the Rough

Could Golf Courses Double as Wildlife Sanctuaries?

Pesticide Issues

Site of US Open Reducing Pesticides (Excellent Article)

Golfing Towards a Greener Environment

Purdue Golf Course Serves as Environmental Research Lab

Putting Doesn't Pollute - Research Finds

Better Golf Course Chemical Management with "KTURF" website
Website found here

Plants can make Golf Courses Better by Filtering Pesticides
We covered this issue in one of our own articles, find it here.

Inhalation of Golf Courses Pesticide Causes "Minimal Health Risk"

Scientists Battle Cold Weather Mold

Water Quality

Wetlands Clean Water and may Control Neigborhood Flooding Issues

Commercial Aquatic Plants offer Cost-Effective Method for Treating Waste Water

Gator on the Golf Course

2008-11-04T20:17:00.000-05:00

David Suzuki Foundation on Candian Pesticide Bans

2008-11-04T19:58:00.002-05:00

The David Suzuki Foundation has a number of news releases and articles on the upcoming Ontario Pesticide ban, including a list of 9 chemicals that didn't make it to the original ban list. All articles can be found here.

Pat Jones on pesticides

2008-11-04T19:34:00.004-05:00

Here, here and here (best article of them all) is the study Pat refers too.

GREEN GOLF ON THE GO

2008-11-04T09:20:00.007-05:00

TRUMP GETS THE GO
From the Timesonline
From the Scotsman
From the AFP

Christopher Gray receives 2008 Rain Bird - Intelligent Use of Water Award

Calgary Golf Community Goes Fore The Green

Carbon Foot Print - an issue for golf course superintendents

Another MASSIVE golf project planned for Cyprus despite lack of water

Super gets recognized for environmentally friendly approach

So Cool - Bonterra and Audubon International

2008-10-29T17:06:00.006-04:00

I'm a big fan of Bonterra Wines, its one of the Merlot's I bring to parties. I had no idea they were as passionate about golf as I am, until I saw this:

"Bonterra Wines, the world's best selling wine made with organic grapes**, knows what it takes to find a balance between preserving nature and producing an award-winning product. As the Official Wine of The PGA of America, Bonterra is committed to helping golf courses find their balance between the environment and the game of golf.

That's why Bonterra is working with Audubon International to "Green the Greens" at courses across the U.S. From September 17, 2008 until the end of the PGA Tour season (11/10/08), a limited number of golf courses can join the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses (ACSP) on Bonterra's dime. The ACSP is an award winning education and certification program that helps golf courses protect the environment and preserve the natural heritage of the game of golf. "

How cool is that?
Although it's not available to International courses it is available to those in the US, all you have to do is submit your registration to Bonterra, and they will cover the $200 ACSP registration fee for the first 100 U.S. based courses who sign up from September 17 - November 10, 2008.

Golf courses can register here

Awesome, way to go Bonterra and Audubon International

Good Source of Information: Golfdom

2008-10-29T16:04:00.005-04:00

I subscribe to a number of golf publications to keep up to date with industry advancements. I've cut my print subscriptions down throughout the years and instead sign up for a lot of web-based e-zines.

One of which is the Golfdom Insider. Golfdom is a great source of information for anyone who works in the golf industry, they aim to be an "upscale publication designed to fill the niche between the highly technical association journal and the newsy tabloids".

They cover a huge amount of environmental issues, here's a few links from their site:

Joe Hubbard - The Natural

ASGCA Issues Sustainable Development Guidelines

From Food Waste to Fertilizer

Solar Golf Cars

Audubon in Action

Turfgrass Trends (a number of links)

Environment Still Number 1 Concern For Golf

Podcasts : Biodeisel, Snow Mold (Mould for you Canadians), Syngenta Professional Products - Meridian insecticide

Videos: Fertilizer Prices, Golf and Environment,

Anti Golf Ads

2008-10-29T10:40:00.006-04:00

I'm not sure what the situation in Turkey is in regards to fresh water supply and golf course development, so I'll let you decide on whether these ads are justified.

“A golf course means the absorption of 15000 cubic metres of water! Millions of cubic metres of water will be spent for the irrigation of the new golfing facilities to be built on our Southern shores. The water resources of the region are indeed too limited to meet the needs of the new facilities. Help us to prevent this.”

“200,000 trees with one strike! Millions of m3s of water will be spent for the irrigation of the new golfing facilities to be built on our Southern shores. The water resources of the region are indeed too limited to meet the needs of the new facilities. Help us to prevent this.”

Green Golf on the Go

2008-10-29T10:05:00.004-04:00

There are so many "Green Golf" stories I can't keep up.
I've decided to start posting links to a bunch of small stories together in one single post, enjoy!

We've covered pasture golf before, check out this course in Kansas
www.vinlandnaturalnine.org

St. Andrews could be under water by 2050 due to global warming

Trump row councillor’s call to reject £1bn project
Open letter says any planning permission given should be on reduced scale

Eco Clothing for Golf
www.untouchedworld.com

Background on Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program

2008-10-29T09:45:00.004-04:00

If you haven't heard of the Audubon program for golf courses, your probably on the wrong site. Here's a little background for you, from Audubon:

"The Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Course is an award winning education and certification program that helps golf courses protect our environment and preserve the natural heritage of the game of golf. By helping people enhance the valuable natural areas and wildlife habitats that golf courses provide, improve efficiency, and minimize potentially harmful impacts of golf operations, the program serves as vital resource for golf courses.

Getting involved is easy. Membership is open to golf courses in the United States and internationally, including private clubs, public and municipal courses, PGA sites, 9-hole facilities, resort courses, and golf residential communities. After joining the program, your next step is to take stock of environmental resources and potential liabilities, and then develop an environmental plan that fits your unique setting, goals, staff, budget, and time. Audubon International provides a Site Assessment and Environmental Planning Form to provide guidance, as well as educational information to help you with:

Environmental Planning
Wildlife and Habitat Management
Chemical Use Reduction and Safety

Water Conservation
Water Quality Management
Outreach and Education

Based on a site specific report provided by Audubon International, you develop a plan that works for your golf course. By implementing and documenting environmental management practices in the above areas, a golf course is eligible for designation as a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary, improving its stature and reputation."

They just released a new website with a whole bunch of great information, unfortunately I can't post links to anything so instead go there yourself and check it out www.auduboninternational.org, be sure to check out the map page which lists both the number of courses and the total percentage of courses within each state.

Rob Lowe explains

2008-10-23T15:15:00.000-04:00