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By Jonathan Reed, Board Member
The summer chaos is upon us. It is that time of year again for triple-digit temperatures, hot nights, wildfires, and prayers for moisture. Even though it can feel stressful and overwhelming at times, these are the situations where we can show who we are. The harsh conditions cannot compare to the determination, hard work, and dedication we superintendents bring to our job. The challenge of solving new problems or adapting to changing conditions is what keeps our work interesting. Let’s face it, if this job was mundane, many of us would not be in this profession!
Speaking of our profession, this year is GCSAA’s 100th birthday. It is a time to reflect on the present as well as the past of our organization and all it has done to support and grow our profession. As our founder Colonel John Morley said, “No life is, or can be, self-existent. We depend upon each other.” For the centennial celebration, the GCSAA Foundation has set a goal of raising $1 million to fund new and innovative initiatives for the next 100 years. If you are so inclined, you can make a monetary donation and have your name added to a plaque that will be mounted at GCSAA headquarters in Lawrence, KS.
If you are unable to make a monetary donation, there is another way to give back. GCSAA has a program called 100 Acts of Service to help honor Col. Morley this centennial. This initiative encourages chapters to give back to their community. Examples of activities include: First Green, First Tee, food drives, funding scholarships, and more. Keep in mind that this does not have to be an official chapter event. If you and fellow superintendents in the same area can organize something meaningful, I urge you to do so; just submit your activity online through the 100 Acts of Service Submission Form.
A final topic I would like to discuss is about Best Management Practices (BMPs). With the increasing legislation that continues to target our industry, we must be prepared. I often hear the comment: “Having a golf course in the desert is so environmentally irresponsible.” This could not be farther from the truth. I know we all take great care to use the minimum amount of inputs while maintaining the best possible playing conditions. What many people do not see is all the behind-the-scenes work that goes into irrigation auditing and pesticide and fertilizer planning for our courses.
And here’s where BMPs can really help. All 50 states currently have a BMP, and now with GCSAA’s online tool, you can customize the BMP to meet your facility’s needs. I urge each of you to utilize this resource. These BMPs are science-based practices that show we absolutely care about the environment and prioritize proper stewardship of the land we manage. They also show communities and policymakers that our industry is very serious about environmental stewardship and sustainability.
Visit any golf course, and you will see the diversity of wildlife species that call it home. One of my favorite things to do is simply sip my morning coffee while watching the sunrise over a golf course, listening to the birds chirp and watching the wildlife start the day. Sometimes it is the simplest things in life that can bring the greatest joy.
In closing, with everything going on, I recommend taking a moment to reflect. The 100th year of our association is an ideal time to consider our challenges and our successes. In a fast-paced, ever-evolving industry, it is important to assess where we are to help us decide the best course moving forward.
Stay cool, stay sane, have a great summer season, and remember, “It is not a mistake unless you do not fix it!”
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