The Environmental Institute for Golf (EIFG) has introduced a planning guide for golf facilities to implement and document integrated pest management (IPM) plans to enhance the playability and sustainability of the golf course.
The EIFG, which is the philanthropic organization of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA), is providing the IPM Planning Guide on its website, www.eifg.org. A set of templates (written procedures, pest identification guides, agronomic guidelines and other reference materials, spreadsheets, record keeping forms and planning calendars) are also included that will guide golf facilities toward development and implementation of IPM plans that meet facility environmental, agronomic and budgetary goals. IPM case studies are posted on eifg.org as well, along with best management practices, and findings from the GCSAA Golf Course Environmental Profile.
“In data from the Golf Course Environmental Profile’s pesticide survey that we will soon release, we found that while most golf facilities are practicing IPM to some degree, only 40 percent of golf facilities have a written IPM plan,” said GCSAA Director of Research Clark Throssell, Ph.D. “The intent of this IPM Planning Guide is to help golf facilities document their IPM work, which will improve their environmental stewardship and help them drive business.”
The IPM Planning Guide was developed by leading scientists in the industry and provides a comprehensive, yet easy to use, tool designed to be applicable in all areas of the country.
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