New research helps the golf industry be more ‘green’
- Published
- Friday 24 January
University Centre Myerscough staff have presented their sustainability research to the golf industry at the BIGGA Turf Management Exhibition.
The research, undertaken by Dr John Fry and Dr Stewart Brown, offers a roadmap to support the golf industry in the context of wider environmental pressures.
The report brings together, for the first time, current academic and technical research, as well expert industry views on how to maintain golf course quality.
Speaking at the event in Harrogate, John offered practical guidance, action points, and case studies of best practice to support golf courses manage the business, agronomic and sustainability priorities for playing surfaces for the game, to a packed room at the event.
Dr John Fry, Project Lead, explained: “It’s a great pleasure to present this practical research to greenkeepers, managers and key decision-makers in the golf industry.
‘’This essential knowledge dissemination is crucial to increase the adoption of sustainable agronomic practices and promote the opportunities golf has to provide sustainable playable surfaces in the future.”
Conference delegates in attendance were also given a ‘golf club template’ to take with them – a practical document whereby clubs can identify their own priority areas. This accessible guidance document sets out a context-specific process for defining what golf course quality means, and aims to help courses better focus on the issues that matter most to them.
John added: “This University Centre Myerscough research offers a practical roadmap whereby golf clubs can address the challenges posed by climate change, resource constraints and regulation, by engaging with a series of steps to improve course condition and playability, depending on the unique characteristics of their business”.
Helen Eaton, Assistant Principal, said: “High quality practical research is a key feature of our Higher Education provision at University Centre Myerscough.
‘’This ensures our students are not only aware of environmental concerns as part of their studies, but they play a direct and important role in developing key knowledge for the golf industry going forward.
‘’These experiences mean students are fully equipped with the skills required for a successful career in the golf industry”.
To enquire about studying golf at University Centre Myerscough, please contact Dr John Fry on jfry@myerscough.ac.uk