Welcome to an engaging episode of the Golf Sustainability Podcast,  with host John Failla and Kevin Sunderman, the Chief Operating Officer of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA). Kevin, a seasoned executive in the world of golf, presents GCSAA’s  inspiring vision for the future.

From his early days as a golf enthusiast in rural Ohio to his current influential role, Kevin’s journey 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.

In this episode, we embark on a journey to explore a greener, more sustainable future for the golf industry as Kevin discusses GCSAA’s programs including  the Golf Course Environmental Profile Study and their Best Management Practices (BMPs)..

Tune in for an engaging and enlightening discussion that highlights the opportunities for  a more sustainable future for golf.

Topics Covered

1. Kevin Sunderman’s Journey and GCSAA’s Mission

• Timestamp: [00:00:00] – [00:08:00]
• Topic: Kevin Sunderman’s background, his transition from being a golf course superintendent to COO at GCSAA, and an overview of GCSAA’s mission, including education, research, and advocacy.

2. GCSAA’s Golf Course Environmental Profile Study and BMP Program

• Timestamp: [00:08:00] 
• Topic: Detailed discussion on the Golf Course Environmental Profile Study, its goals, research-driven initiatives, and the Best Management Practices (BMP) program. Emphasis on the history, state-specific templates, and the vision for the BMP program’s future impact on the environment.

3. Benefits of Best Management Practices (BMPs)

• Time Stamp: [00:31:00] 
• Description: The conversation delves into the economic benefits associated with implementing best management practices. It discusses the potential reduction in resource use and the varying impact on expenses depending on the facility. It emphasizes the importance of reducing short-term, intermediate, and long-term risks for golf course owners and managers.

4. Partnerships and Collaboration for Environmental Impact

• Time Stamp: [00:35:00]
• Description: The discussion focuses on the importance of partnerships in the golf industry to promote environmental initiatives. It highlights the need for everyone in the golf industry, including sustainability groups, manufacturers, distributors, and golf course owners, to work together, share best practices, and promote a positive environmental impact.