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

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• When possible, find creative ways to include golf sustainability in your episode title
• Be consistent about how you refer to guests: First name after being introduced by full name once
• Be consistent with how you display time stamps

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

• LinkedIn
• Facebook
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• X (Twitter)

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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
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• X (Twitter)

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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

• LinkedIn
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• X (Twitter)

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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

• LinkedIn
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• X (Twitter)

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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

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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

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Did you know that “Director of Sustainability” is an important role at golf courses? Craig Boath is the Head of Sustainability at Carnoustie Golf Links in Scotland and in addition to sharing his career journey in the industry, he reveals all of Carnoustie Golf Links’ sustainability efforts.

Craig emphasizes the importance of data collection and measurement in sustainability efforts, as well as the challenges of meeting golfer expectations while pursuing sustainability goals. Craig delves into partnerships with organizations like GEO Foundation for Sustainable Golf and suppliers like John Deere and Rainbird to implement sustainable practices and technologies on the course.

Highlighted Topics Covered

• The history of Carnoustie Golf Links and Craig Boath's involvement in various Open Championships held at Carnoustie (3:28 - 8:51)
• Examples of current sustainability projects and practices at Carnoustie Golf Links (8:51 - 12:38)
• Carnoustie Golf Links’ involvement with groups like Kirsty Memories, disabled golfers, and junior golfers (12:38 - 16:50)
• Details about a five-year biodiversity program and carbon capture initiatives (16:50 - 26:06)
• Challenges of meeting high expectations for course conditions while prioritizing sustainability (26:06 - 29:21)
• Insights into upcoming sustainability projects and goals (29:21 - 31:05)

Resources

• Carnoustie Golf Links, Scotland
• R&A (The R&A, The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews)
• Alan Robertson
• Sustainable.golf
• Rain Bird | A Global Irrigation Company
• John Deere US | Products & Services Information

Connect with Guest, Craig Boath

• LinkedIn

Connect with Carnoustie Golf Links

• Carnoustie Golf Links, Scotland
• Instagram

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!