National and International Programs

Audubon International

The first international stewardship program of its kind, this award-winning Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses combines education and certification, protecting the environment while preserving the game’s natural heritage.

GCSAA encourages members to consider this program. In fact, a survey of GCSAA members revealed more of them participate in Audubon International programs than any other.

GCSAA honors: President’s Award for Environmental Stewardship, 1993

Golf Environment Organization

This international nonprofit offers sustainability programs for golf facilities. GEO provides tools and resources covering operations, golf events and course development, as well as a certification program.

The Groundwater Foundation’s Groundwater Guardian Green Site

Public recognition for stewardship of groundwater and the environment for highly managed green spaces like golf courses, ball fields, parks and campuses, is what Groundwater Guardian is all about. Education for site managers, staff and visitors is also a focus.

Choose this program to implement, measure and document groundwater-friendly practices. To be designated as a GG Green Site, you must apply and earn at least 70% of total points based on current practices related to pesticide and fertilizer use, water use, managing sources of pollution, protecting water quality and environmental stewardship.

Management Tools

ePar

Originating in Australia in 2003, ePar is a golf course-specific environmental management system that conforms to the international standard ISO 14001. It incorporates tools and resources for site professionals to complete a site-wide EMS.

State Programs

Michigan Turfgrass Environmental Stewardship Program

To advance environmental stewardship of the turfgrass industry, this program organizes efforts within the industry, state agencies, Michigan State University and environmental advocacy groups. It also recognizes environmental achievements.

MSU developed the program with support from the Michigan Turfgrass Foundation, Golf Association of Michigan, and state departments of Environmental Quality and Agriculture.

GCSAA honors: President’s Award for Environmental Stewardship, 2001

Rhode Island Golf Course Green Certification Program

This voluntary self-certification program assists hospitality businesses with attaining green performance standards, implementing best management practices and complying with environmental regulatory requirements.

Vermont Business Environmental Partnership

The Environmental Assistance Office of the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation recognizes golf courses through this partnership for best management practices that reflect environmental stewardship in site operations.

Other Programs

These programs, though not designed specifically for golf course management, can be applied to key operations.

EPA Energy Portfolio Manager

Use this program to set priorities, identify under-performing buildings, verify efficiency improvements and receive Environmental Protection Agency recognition for superior energy performance. Its interactive energy management tool allows you to track and assess energy and water consumption across your entire portfolio of green buildings in a secure online environment.

USGBC LEED

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) is an internationally-recognized green building certification system developed by the U.S. Green Building Council.

LEED establishes a framework for building owners and operators to design, build, operate and maintain green buildings in ways both practical and measurable.