Golf Sustainability | Environmental Solutions to Keep the Game of Golf Sustainable for Future Golfers
On a mission to drive positive change in the golf industry for a greener future! Host John Failla focuses on advancing the sustainability of both the environment and the game of golf for generations to come through valuable insights, meaningful connections, and inspiring stories. This passionate golfer, who has already played on 39 of the World’s Top 100 Golf Courses, brings together industry leaders and organizations: Greg Nathan, the President and Chief Executive Officer of the National Golf Foundation (NGF), Graeme Beatt, the Course Manager at Royal Portrush Golf Course in Ireland, Dave Barton, the executive director of the National Alliance for Accessible Golf, and many more. John and his guests are united by a shared commitment to the cause. Over the past 15 years, John has created, developed and sold two businesses focused on helping large private and public sector organizations accomplish their sustainability goals and navigate the energy transition to clean energy. Most recently, the research, digital media, events and podcasts created by John at Smart Energy Decisions have been widely recognized for their thought leadership and impact in helping large organizations achieve their sustainability goals and reduce their carbon emissions. John is leveraging his experience in corporate sustainability and his passion for golf in the development of Golf Sustainability as a resource to help accelerate adoption of best practices in environmental, social and economic sustainability within the golf industry to ensure the viability of the game for future generations. Be part of the movement for golf sustainability!
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Episodes
Tuesday Oct 01, 2024
Tuesday Oct 01, 2024
Jay Karen, CEO of the National Golf Course Owners Association, addresses economic and social sustainability from the viewpoint of an owner/operator.
Jay believes that there’s a fine balance between sustainable business practices and sustainability practices. He dissects the nuances one has to consider.
Golf course owners are expected to make golf more accessible. But are the same questions being asked of restaurateurs? Are they expected to lower the prices of their meals in the name of democratizing eating out? No!
Demand is off the charts right now. Everything is getting more expensive. Many golf courses need major improvements. Green fees will have to go up to cover these things. Jay shares how golf course owners and operators balance the financials and sustainability efforts in this wonderful conversation.
Topics covered:
Jay’s career journey and current role as CEO at NGCOA [2:04]
The different types of members at NGCOA [5:25]
How NGCOA approaches sustainability [8:16]
How different types of courses think about sustainability [17:15]
The democratization of access to the game [29:50]
How do we work together toward sustainability? [36:12]
What drives Jay? Why is he passionate about golf sustainability? [40:39]
Resources & People Mentioned
Lead Golf Together Summitt
National Alliance of Accessible Golf
Golf on Course
Roger Dow
Connect with Jay Karen
Connect on LinkedIn
National Golf Course Owners Association
Connect With Golf Sustainability
LinkedIn
Facebook
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X (Twitter)
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Apple Podcast
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Note: Timestamps provided are approximate.
Thank you for listening to the Golf Sustainability podcast. If you found this episode interesting, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review! For more insights and updates on sustainable energy solutions, visit our website and follow us on social media.
Audio, Video, and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK
Tuesday Sep 24, 2024
Tuesday Sep 24, 2024
St. Andrews Links is the oldest—and most well-known—golf course in the world. Recognized as the “Home of Golf,” it’s existed for over 600 years. Today we have the privilege of speaking with Gordon McKie, the Greenkeeping Operations Manager. Gordon has been at St. Andrews Links in various roles for over 27 years.
Every year, over 240,000 rounds of golf are played across their seven courses. In 1974, the golf course was handed over to be managed by the St. Andrews Links Trust. The trust is solely responsible for what happens on the golf courses, including sustainability initiatives.
St. Andrews Links is an innovative leader in environmental practices and sustainability. They evaluated their energy use and immediately began to implement changes: Installing solar panels, changing out light bulbs, and moving to the use of electric mowers and vehicles. They’ll soon be invested in the latest irrigation technology to reduce water usage on the courses.
One of the challenges they face as a coastal golf course is coastal erosion. The West Sands Project was launched to protect the Links from eventually going underwater. They also introduced the West Sands Rangers Service in 2022 to protect the natural habitat, including native birds and butterflies.
Only eight greenkeepers have cared for the Old Course in between Old Man Morris and Gordon, which he feels is an honor and a privilege. Gordon is passionate about improving education opportunities for young greenkeepers and hopes he influences them to recognize the importance of sustainability and being environmentally friendly.
Topics covered:
Gordon’s career progression at St. Andrews Links (00:01:15 – 00:03:30)
Goron joined St. Andrews in 1995 as the Deputy Head Greenkeeper on the Eden course and worked there for 5 years before moving into the Head Greenkeeper role.
Gordon spent 17 years as the Old Course manager before moving into the Greenkeeping Operations Manager role in 2023.
How the management of St. Andrews Links has evolved (00:03:31 – 00:08:17)
In 1974, the golf course was handed over to be managed by the St. Andrews Links Trust.
Every penny that comes into the organization is reinvested into the courses (for example, proceeds from the trust are used for free golf lessons for Juniors).
Being the steward of Old Tom Morris’s famous work [00:08:18 – 00:11:42)
As only the 9th person to manage the turf, Gordon feels it’s a privilege to follow in the footsteps of Old Tom Morris, heralded as the first sustainable greenkeeper.
The evolution of sustainability at St. Andrews Links (00:11:43 – 00:18:03)
St. Andrews Links is an innovative leader in environmental practices and sustainability to protect their heritage and history.
They launched the West Sands Project, replenishing gabions and dunes to protect against coastal erosion and preserve the Links.
They focus on educating the next generation, making sure they know what they need to do to protect their future.
Winning the Scottish Golf “Sustainable Project of the Year” Award (00:18:04 – 00:24:05)
After evaluating their energy usage, they installed solar panels, changed out light bulbs to LEDs and sensor lights, and are using more electric and hybrid lawnmowers and vehicles.
They plan to update the irrigation system to take advantage of the latest technology in sprinkler heads on the Old Course to further reduce water usage.
They work with their partners to collect data to help them develop their products to better everyone in the industry.
The legacy Gordon hopes to leave for future generations (00:24:06 – 00:31:10)
Goron hopes his legacy will influence the next generation to understand the importance of sustainability and being environmentally friendly.
Resources & People Mentioned
St. Andrews Links
St. Andrews Links Trust Awarded Sustainable Project of the Year
Connect with Gordon McKie
Connect on LinkedIn
Follow on Twitter
Connect With Golf Sustainability
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Email
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Note: Timestamps provided are approximate.
Thank you for listening to the Golf Sustainability podcast. If you found this episode interesting, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review! For more insights and updates on sustainable energy solutions, visit our website and follow us on social media.
Tuesday Sep 17, 2024
Tuesday Sep 17, 2024
“We all live downstream” is one of the mottos of Mr. Jonny Morris, the Founder and CEO of Bass Pro Shops.
Bubba Wright lets this motto serve as the north star for everything he does as the Director of Agronomy at Big Cedar Lodge.
Whether it's by reducing its footprint or providing habitats for wildlife, Big Cedar Lodge strives to leave everything better than they found it. They’re achieving this by using organic fertilizers, installing new water systems to conserve water, and making sure their courses are Audubon-certified.
Bubba shares his heart for conservation and passion for cultivating a strong culture in this conversation on the Golf Sustainability podcast.
Topics covered:
Bubba’s career journey to his current role at Big Cedar Lodge [1:20–4:42]
The history of Big Cedar Lodge [4:43–6:31]
The Big Cedar Lodge philosophy around conservation and sustainability [6:32–13:43]
Their relationship with the National Audubon Society and other partners [13:44]
The technology that’s being developed to advance sustainability [19:03]
Getting to know Bubba Wright on a personal level [22:51]
Resources & People Mentioned
The National Audubon Society
John Deere
Rainbird
Environmental Works
Golf Course Superintendents Association of America
Connect with Bubba Wright
Connect on LinkedIn
Big Cedar Lodge Golf
Connect With Golf Sustainability
LinkedIn
Facebook
Instagram
X (Twitter)
Subscribe to Golf Sustainability
Apple Podcast
Spotify
Note: Timestamps provided are approximate.
Thank you for listening to the Golf Sustainability podcast. If you found this episode interesting, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review! For more insights and updates on sustainable energy solutions, visit our website and follow us on social media.
Tuesday May 14, 2024
Tuesday May 14, 2024
The Path seeks to change kids’ lives while introducing them to the game of golf. So is it a community center or a golf course? It’s both! It was launched on the premise that every child deserves the chance to succeed in life and you can hear the motivating story from Dave Andrews, the Director of The Path at The Park West Palm Beach.
The Path has become the perfect blend of Dave’s passion and purpose, giving kids hope and inspiration. The goal was to take a kid who may not be on a good path and change their trajectory.
Listen to learn more about this awe-inspiring community program—including how to inspire community involvement or launch your own program.
Highlighted Topics Covered
Vision for The Park West Palm project (03:31 - 08:19)
Development of the The Path and its key programs (08:20 - 18:35)
Getting local schools to participate in the program (23:44 - 29:30)
Resources
The Park West Palm
The Path
Connect with Guest, Dave Andrews
LinkedIn
Connect with Host, John Failla
LinkedIn
John@GolfSustainability.com
Connect With Golf Sustainability
LinkedIn
Facebook
Instagram
X (Twitter)
Subscribe to Golf Sustainability
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Thank you for listening to Golf Sustainability. If you found this episode interesting, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!
Saturday Jan 13, 2024
Saturday Jan 13, 2024
Aiming to reflect the diverse demographics of America in both participants and workforce of the golf industry is Sandy Cross, the Chief People Officer at the PGA of America. Sandy and host John explore groundbreaking programs like PGA Works, aimed at diversifying the golf industry workforce, and initiatives such as Make Golf Your Career and Make Golf Your Business, fostering diversity in career opportunities and supply chains.
Sandy also shares personal insights, including the transformative power of golf, her inspiration from her parents, and the challenges and triumphs of relocating the PGA of America during the pandemic.
Highlighted Topics Covered
Framework for diversity and inclusion at PGA of America (04:01 - 07:00)
PGA’s internal diversity and inclusion programs (07:01 - 10:00)
Industry-wide initiatives and programs (10:01 - 15:00)
Resources
PGA of America
Make Golf Your Thing
First Tee
Connect with Guest, Sandy Cross
LinkedIn
Connect with PGA of America
PGA of America
Connect with Host, John Failla
LinkedIn
John@GolfSustainability.com
Connect with Golf Sustainability
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Thank you for listening to Golf Sustainability. If you found this episode interesting, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!
Friday Jan 12, 2024
Friday Jan 12, 2024
Here to explain how it’s possible to create an environmentally conscious golfing experience while enhancing safety and making the golf course more sustainable is Tom Coyne, Author and Owner of Sullivan County Golf Club, a 180-acre, nine-hole course in the Catskills.
Tom takes us through his significant course renovation including sodding the entire course using a mix of grass strains reflective of its century-long history. His commitment to responsible land management, combined with the use of organic inputs from partners like Toro and AquaTrols, sets the stage for low-impact golfing.
The episode is not just about revitalizing a golf course; it's about creating a haven where golfers, families, and food enthusiasts converge to enjoy a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and exceptional experiences.
Highlighted Topics Covered
Differences in golf sustainability views between the U.S. and Europe (03:00 - 08:00)
Challenges faced by Sullivan County Golf Club and the importance of sustainability in maintaining golf courses (08:00 - 15:00)
Impact of Toro and AquaTrols in making the golf course more sustainable (15:00 - 26:00)
Resources
Sullivan County Golf Club
A Course Called Ireland
A Course Called Scotland
A Course Called America
Piccolo Paese
Connect with Guests, Tom Coyne
Linkedin
Connect with Host, John Failla
LinkedIn
John@GolfSustainability.com
Connect with Golf Sustainability on Social Media
LinkedIn
Facebook
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X (Twitter)
Subscribe to Golf Sustainability
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Thank you for listening to Golf Sustainability. If you found this episode interesting, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!
Friday Jan 12, 2024
Friday Jan 12, 2024
Calling attention to the evolution of golf sustainability over the past 40 years is Frank LaVardera, the Director of Environmental Programs for Golf at Audubon International. Frank expresses a desire to be remembered as someone who cared deeply about the environment and fostered a user-friendly and collaborative approach in the golf industry.
During the interview, Frank delves into the intricacies of Audubon International’s Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program (ACSP), Signature Program, and Platinum Program, all designed to foster environmental sustainability in golf courses, emphasizing the importance of the Natural Resource Management Plan. He calls upon real-world examples of courses committed to sustainability and shares inspiring stories about environmental stewards like Jim Pavonetti.
Highlighted Topics Covered
Overview of the ACSP, its six certification components, and a specific example of Saco Country Club's journey in implementing environmental practices (00:00 - 14:00)
Discussion on the Signature Program, its 11 certification components, and an example of Cabot Revelstoke (14:00 - 26:00)
Introduction of the Platinum Program (26:00 - 30:00), which combines certification for golf courses, clubhouses, and lodging facilities under one umbrella
Audubon International's conservation initiatives (30:00 - 32:00)
Resources
Audubon International
Water IQ
The Cornell Turf School Program
Cabot RevelStroke
Connect with Guest, Frank LaVardera
LinkedIn
Connect with Audubon International
Audubon International
Connect with Host, John Failla
LinkedIn
John@GolfSustainability.com
Connect with Golf Sustainability on Social Media
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Subscribe to Golf Sustainability
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Thank you for listening to Golf Sustainability. If you found this episode interesting, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!
Wednesday Dec 06, 2023
Wednesday Dec 06, 2023
Opportunities for more golf sustainability are presented by Kevin Sunderman, the Chief Operating Officer of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA). Kevin chats with host John about the journey to a greener, more sustainable future for the golf industry.
From his early days as a golf enthusiast in rural Ohio to his current influential role, Kevin's story is nothing short of inspiring. Join us as we delve into his passion for making a meaningful impact and sparking change in the golf community.
Topics Covered
Kevin’s transition from being a golf course superintendent to COO at GCSAA and an overview of GCSAA's mission (00:00 - 08:00)
GCSAA’s Golf Course Environmental Profile Study, its goals, research-driven initiatives, and the Best Management Practices (BMP) program (08:00)
Benefits of Best Management Practices (BMPs) (31:00)
Importance of partnerships in the golf industry to promote environmental initiatives (35:00)
Resources
Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA)
GCSAA Golf Course Environmental Profile
GCSAA Best Management Practices
Connect with Guest, Kevin Sunderman
LinkedIn
Connect with GCSAA
Golf Course Superintendents Association of America
Connect with Host, John Failla
LinkedIn
John@GolfSustainability.com
Connect with Golf Sustainability on Social Media
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Facebook
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X (Twitter)
Subscribe to Golf Sustainability
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Thank you for listening to Golf Sustainability. If you found this episode interesting, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!
Wednesday Nov 29, 2023
Wednesday Nov 29, 2023
Exploring the world of off-course golf and its profound impact on the golf industry is Greg Nathan, the President and Chief Executive Officer of the National Golf Foundation (NGF). Greg explains the various facets of off-course golf, encompassing driving ranges, the exhilarating world of golf entertainment exemplified by Topgolf, and the cutting-edge realm of simulator golf.
Greg presents data on the remarkable growth of off-course golf participation and underscores the pivotal role of off-course golf in making golf more accessible and enjoyable, particularly for newcomers and casual players. He accentuates the pressing need for traditional golf courses to evolve, embracing a more welcoming and inclusive approach that breaks down the barriers preventing newcomers from transitioning to on-course golf.
Highlighted Topics Covered
Trends in off-course golf participation (00:00 - 18:00)
Impact of off-course experience on green grass golf (27:00 - 30:00)
Historical importance of the National Golf Foundation's role in the world of golf (41:00 - 42:00)
Resources
National Golf Foundation (NGF)
Fortnight - NGF Newsletter
Topgolf
Connect with Guest, Greg Nathan
LinkedIn
Connect with The National Golf Foundation
National Golf Foundation
Connect with Host, John Failla
LinkedIn
John@GolfSustainability.com
Connect with Golf Sustainability on Social Media
LinkedIn
Facebook
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X (Twitter)
Subscribe to Golf Sustainability
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Thank you for listening to Golf Sustainability. If you found this episode interesting, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!
Wednesday Oct 18, 2023
Wednesday Oct 18, 2023
The challenges of sustainability in golf, the importance of site selection for new courses, and the need for customized environmental management plans are just some of the things Ron Dodson, a biologist and author, talks about in this episode.
The episode focuses on the significance of water conservation in the golf industry, highlighting the role of technology and new methodologies in addressing water use and wastewater treatment, and the economic aspect of sustainability and how it can become an economic opportunity rather than an expense.
This insightful discussion sheds light on the evolving landscape of golf sustainability and the importance of grassroots action to drive positive change in the industry.
Highlighted Topics Covered
Reviewing what golf sustainability is (0:00 - 3:02)
Customizing sustainability for golf courses (3:02 - 8:30)
Key components of effective Environmental Management Plans for both new and existing golf courses (8:30 - 26:43)
Significance of maintaining good storage and inventory systems in maintenance facilities for sustainable golf practices (31:03 - 32:03)
Challenges the golf industry faces in terms of water management and conservation, particularly in regions with water scarcity (33:36 - 35:09)
Resources
Ron Dodson
The Dodson Group
Sustainable Golf Courses: A Guide to Environmental Stewardship - Kindle edition by Dodson, Ronald G., Palmer, Arnold. Arts & Photography Kindle eBooks @ Amazon.com.
Connect with Guest, Ron Dodson
LinkedIn
Connect with The Dodson Group
The Dodson Group
Connect with Host, John Failla
LinkedIn
John@GolfSustainability.com
Connect with Golf Sustainability on Social Media
LinkedIn
Facebook
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X (Twitter)
Subscribe to Golf Sustainability
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Thank you for listening to Golf Sustainability. If you found this episode interesting, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!