The Environmental Benefits of Golf Courses

What if golf courses were more than just places to tee off? In this episode of The Golf Sustainability Podcast, I sit down with Brian Horgan, chairperson of Michigan State University’s Department of Plant, Soil, and Microbial Sciences, to dive into a fascinating new perspective on golf. With over 20 years in research and academia, Brian has been at the forefront of redefining golf courses as essential green spaces with real environmental and social impact.

We explore how golf courses can go beyond leisure to contribute to urban cooling, carbon sequestration, water management, and biodiversity. Brian shares his insights on the future of municipal courses—how they can evolve into thriving community hubs and play a critical role in sustainable urban planning.

Whether you're passionate about golf sustainability, urban development, or reimagining public spaces, Brian’s research offers a fresh look at how these often-overlooked landscapes can benefit both people and the planet. Don't miss this thought-provoking discussion on building a more sustainable future through golf.

Topics covered:

• [1:10] Brian Horgan's Journey to Research and Academia 
• [4:00] The "Science of the Green" Concept 
• [8:10] Multifunctional Use of Golf Courses and Community Integration 
• [16:20] Broader Impacts and Future of Golf Course Research 
• [22:00] Expanding the Mindset for Municipal Golf Courses 

Resources & People Mentioned

• USGA (United States Golf Association)
• InVEST Model
• St. Andrews
• The Park at West Palm

Connect with Brian Horgan, Ph.D.

• Brian Horgan, Michigan State University Profile
• Michigan State University Department of Plant, Soil, and Microbial Sciences

Connect With Golf Sustainability

• LinkedIn 
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• X (Twitter)
• Email

Subscribe to Golf Sustainability

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Note: Timestamps provided are approximate.

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