The rapid urbanization of the Middle Atlantic states and two recent, severe droughts clearly demonstrate that, even though our region has an abundance of water resources, our waters must be managed wisely by all users.  This includes Delaware’s golf courses, and the state’s golf course superintendents have led the way in manage this resource that is precious to golfers and non-golfers alike.  Through these efforts, golf courses have become recognized as more than merely a playing field for the game of golf; they are an important resource that adds value to the live of many, golfer and non-golfer alike.

In 1999, the Delaware State Golf Association Green Section formed as an advisory group to advocate responsible water use and nutrient management policies within our state.  This organization reacted to a severe water supply problem in New Castle County and a nutrient management law that was enacted in response to high levels of nitrogen and phosphorous in the inland bays.  The goal is for the managers of golf’s playing fields, golf course superintendents to act as advocates for the states golf industry in formulating regulations that not only protects the environment, but also allows the high level of turf management that today’s golfers have come to expect.  The direct result of this work includes participation in the Drought Advisory Council and the Nutrient Management Commission.  It also points to a great misunderstanding of how golf courses are managed, particularly when it comes to water supply and water quality.

The misconception is that golf courses dump water, fertilizers and pesticides on the turf in a never ending search for green grass.   The truth is that golf courses are carefully managed, and while irrigation, fertilizer and plant protectants are used, all are carefully managed by trained professionals.  Golf course superintendents are trained in the careful use of irrigation water, reducing pesticide use, and the prudent management of nutrients promoting the low-cut, “fast grass” that modern golfers demand.  Proper use of these materials is not only cost effective, it is the right thing to do.  Superintendents recognize this because the encroaching suburbanization of our state around their courses demonstrates that they have become, more and more, the only open space that is left.

In 2001-2008, Delaware became the first state to have 100% participation in the Audubon International Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses.  Through a grant from the DSGA, all golf facilities were enrolled in this program that promotes responsible land stewardship.   It focuses on the individual course, its existing natural resources, and its management programs so that the course can be managed in an environmentally friendly manner as possible.  Because the course is often the only open space in an urban or suburban landscape, it becomes a wildlife sanctuary.  The Cooperative Sanctuary Program assists the superintendent in assessing the environmental assets and enhancing those attributes.

This year, the DSGA Green Section plans further initiatives.  Participation in pesticide container recycling programs, stream watch and oyster farming programs are in the works by either the DSGA GS or individual members.  A program is in the works that would make the wash-pad facility at golf courses much cleaner.  In the future, the DSGA, the state’s golf courses and Delaware’s golf course superintendents will continue to work for a “green industry” because it adds to the enjoyment of the great game of golf.