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HOSTED BY JOHN FAILLA, FOUNDER OF GOLF SUSTAINABILITY

Welcome to the Golf Sustainability Podcast

The Environmental Benefits of Golf Courses and How They Can Shape The Future

Whether you're passionate about golf sustainability, urban development, or reimagining public spaces, Brian’s research offers a fresh look at how these often-overlooked landscapes can benefit both people and the planet.

 

What if golf courses were more than just places to tee off? In this episode of The Golf Sustainability Podcast, I sit down with Brian Horgan, chairperson of Michigan State University’s Department of Plant, Soil, and Microbial Sciences, to dive into a fascinating new perspective on golf. With over 20 years in research and academia, Brian has been at the forefront of redefining golf courses as essential green spaces with real environmental and social impact.

We explore how golf courses can go beyond leisure to contribute to urban cooling, carbon sequestration, water management, and biodiversity. Brian shares his insights on the future of municipal courses—how they can evolve into thriving community hubs and play a critical role in sustainable urban planning.

Whether you're passionate about golf sustainability, urban development, or reimagining public spaces, Brian’s research offers a fresh look at how these often-overlooked landscapes can benefit both people and the planet. Don't miss this thought-provoking discussion on building a more sustainable future through golf.

Topics covered:

  • Brian Horgan's Journey to Research and Academia [1:10] 
    • Brian shares his early aspirations of becoming a golf course superintendent and how his time at Michigan State University led him to research.
    • A key turning point in his career occurred during economic downturns in golf, which shifted his focus from recreation to the broader community and environmental value of golf courses.
    • The emergence of sustainability conversations during this time shaped his approach to thinking about golf differently.
  • The "Science of the Green" Concept [4:00] 

    • Brian introduces his "Science of the Green" research concept, which focuses on three aspects: economic, environmental, and agronomic.
    • The collaboration with the USGA was essential in broadening the scope of the research, addressing water costs, turf management, and public policy.
    • The research evolved to consider golf courses as valuable urban green spaces with the potential for significant community and ecological benefits.
  • Multifunctional Use of Golf Courses and Community Integration [8:10] 

    • Brian mentions the importance of viewing golf courses as multifunctional assets that can benefit communities beyond recreation.
    • Examples include urban cooling, pollinator habitats, and water management services that golf courses can provide.
    • Brian talks about how the perception of golf courses needs to evolve to reflect their broader ecological and societal value, similar to parks and natural spaces.
  • Broader Impacts and Future of Golf Course Research [16:20] 

    • Scaling of research across multiple metropolitan areas, confirming that golf courses in different regions provide various ecosystem services.
    • Brian introduces the idea of "choose your own adventure" land-use scenarios, helping communities decide the best use for green spaces.
    • Continuing research to refine and understand the long-term impacts of converting green spaces, like golf courses, into more urbanized areas.
  • Expanding the Mindset for Municipal Golf Courses [22:00] 
    • We explore how municipal golf courses could serve as multifunctional community centers, drawing inspiration from successful models like St. Andrews.
    • The conversation delves into how the golf industry can adopt more innovative approaches to democratize the game and expand its reach to benefit entire communities.
    • Brian reflects on the role of nonprofit organizations, and public trusts, and how these structures can drive the sustainability and accessibility of golf courses.

Resources & People Mentioned

Connect with Brian Horgan, Ph.D.

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Note: Timestamps provided are approximate.

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Audio, Video, and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

Host John Failla delivers valuable insights, meaningful connections, and inspiring stories in each episode of the podcast.

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