Each precise application of technology brings us one step closer to our sustainability goals. Matt shares more about his process at Hillcrest in this thought-provoking episode of Golf Sustainability.
As the Director of Agronomy at Hillcrest Country Club, Matt Muhlenbruch fully embraces leveraging technology to make the game more sustainable. His approach is well-researched so he’s only implementing tools and technologies that will drive sustainable golf forward.
Ultimately, the technology he adopts has to bring meaningful and measurable advantages to the operation, or save time and money. Matt thoughtfully incorporates each piece, from a new irrigation system to ground sensors, GPS-based turf sprayers to electric mowers.
Each precise application brings them one step closer to their sustainability goals. Matt shares more about his process at Hillcrest in this thought-provoking episode of Golf Sustainability.
Topics covered:
- Matt’s career journey and current role at Hillcrest Country Club [1:22]
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- Matt grew up in New Jersey where he worked summers on the golf course. After graduating from Penn State, he moved to the West Coast for an internship.
- He spent seven years at the Olympic Club in San Francisco and took part in renovating Poppy Hills in Monterey.
- Matt joined the Hillcrest Country Club in 2019, just as they completed the renovation to their course (including a new grass and irrigation system).
- He now has over 20 years of experience as a Superintendent of courses in California.
- What does golf sustainability look like at Hillcrest Country Club? [7:18]
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- Anyone who’s in the golf business knows that you need to be economically sustainable.
- Golf is a business that relies heavily on natural resources and your local region. Sustainability looks different everywhere. But your local region dictates how you manage your resources in an environmentally friendly way.
- LA has struggled with years of drought, which makes Matt’s job as the Director of Agronomy a challenge—but one that he welcomes.
- Addressing the stringent regulations in California for golf course management [10:07]
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- Water usage is heavily regulated in the West (much of the water is imported because there’s such little rain). The city has to stay viable. Because of this, golf courses are low on the list of priorities.
- LA is behind on using reclaimed water. They’re researching returning all water to the water supply in some way.
- Water also varies in quality—potable, groundwater, etc. The impact of technology on sustainability [15:46]
- Golf courses are trying to deliver favorable playing conditions whenever possible, which is tricky in arid regions.
- Hillcrest has started to irrigate based on an analysis of the property. It’s given them better uniformity, allowed them to use less water, and didn't require drain pipes everywhere.
- Once they were irrigating based on the zones, they dropped in soil sensors to help them determine when to water which has led to precise decision-making.
- GPS-based turf sprayers are a game changer when it comes to fertilizer and chemical applications. The reduction in fertilizer and pest controls led to immediate savings.
- They have warm season fairways with bermuda grass and ryegrass rough. They have very different pest and fertility needs. You need precision so you don’t cause problems.
- Matt’s experience collaborating with partners like Rainbird and Toro [28:00]
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- Matt believes that building and establishing positive relationships with companies Like Toro and Rainbird is the only way to get things done.
- Most companies are looking for participation from clubs to learn how their products are best utilized. You have to remember that when you purchase something, you become a guinea pig.
- The technologies that Matt is excited to test next [33:54]
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- Labor, equipment, and water are the biggest costs to factor in when it comes to the state of California.
- John Deere and Toro are leaders in the market and are working on increasing their electric mowing options.
- There is always an operating cost to a machine. But using an electric mower may mean the difference between a small golf course staying open or not.
- What drives Matt forward? [37:22]
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- Matt finds his work fascinating. It’s interesting to be in this business at this time. Watching the influence of innovation globally is eye-opening. But where is that innovation golf?
- The challenges of labor and water shortages are unprecedented. Technologies are starting to solve some of those issues. Matt is excited to lean into technology to make golf more environmentally friendly and sustainable.
Resources & People Mentioned
Connect with Matt Muhlenbruch
- Connect on LinkedIn
- Follow on Twitter
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Note: Timestamps provided are approximate.
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