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HOSTED BY JOHN FAILLA, FOUNDER OF GOLF SUSTAINABILITY

Welcome to the Golf Sustainability Podcast

What Golf Gets Wrong About Sustainability (And How Rhett Evans Plans to Fix It)

As CEO for over 15 years, Rhett Evans has become the voice for the 20,000 members who manage and care for millions of acres of green space across the country.

The Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) plays a hugely important role in shaping the future of golf, and few people embody its mission like Rhett Evans. As CEO for over 15 years, Rhett has become the voice for the 20,000 members who manage and care for millions of acres of green space across the country. His leadership isn’t just about turf management—it’s about creating a sustainable future for the game we all love.

Rhett brings a fascinating perspective, shaped by experiences that range from managing NBA franchises to scaling Mount Everest. His journey reflects a rare combination of vision and grit. The conversation touches on the incredible potential of golf to be a force for environmental good and the vital work GCSAA is doing to support superintendents in balancing playability with sustainability.

From innovative education programs like First Green, which turns golf courses into outdoor classrooms, to best management practices that are raising standards nationwide, Rhett shares how golf can lead the way in environmental stewardship. His passion for the game and commitment to advancing its future leave no doubt about the importance of this work.

If there’s one takeaway, it’s this: golf isn’t just a sport. It’s a community, a classroom, and a proving ground for environmental innovation. Rhett’s leadership is ensuring it remains all those things and more for generations to come.

Topics covered:

  • Introduction and BMP Overview [00:00]
    • Rhett Evans explains how decades of science have been condensed into Best Management Practices (BMPs), covering 14 key areas like water quality and nutrient management.
    • John Failla introduces Rhett as the CEO of GCSAA and highlights his unique background, including scaling Mount Everest.
  • Rhett’s Journey to GCSAA [3:44]
    • Rhett shares his career journey, from working with the Utah Jazz to managing golf courses in Arizona.
    • Discusses his passion for golf and the environmental, social, and community benefits he’s observed.
    • Reflects on his 16-year tenure at GCSAA, 15 years as CEO, representing 20,000 members managing 2 million acres of green space.
  • GCSAA’s Mission and Member Community [5:52]
    • GCSAA’s mission centers on supporting superintendents, advancing their profession, and building community.
    • Rhett emphasizes the importance of resource-sharing and the organization’s century-long history of collaboration.
    • Notes the global membership spanning 78 countries and the unique challenges posed by different environments.
  • Evolution of Education and Research [9:50]
    • Rhett highlights the critical role of ongoing education, including webinars, research, and best practices shared through GCSAA’s magazine.
    • Talks about the need for adaptability in the face of climate challenges like drought and extreme weather.
    • Points to innovation and the use of new tools as ways superintendents are evolving their work.
  • Best Management Practices (BMPs) in Detail [11:58]
    • BMPs are state-specific guides tailored to local regulations and environmental nuances.
    • Rhett explains the importance of individualized BMPs, giving examples of how they differ between states like California and Montana.
    • GCSAA is working on a certification program to recognize courses that adopt these practices.
  • Collaborating with EPA on Regulations [17:20]
    • GCSAA’s proactive partnership with the EPA ensures BMPs are reflected in regulations that are practical for golf courses.
    • Rhett discusses how educating policymakers about superintendents’ efforts can prevent inappropriate agricultural standards from being imposed.
    • Highlights the precision technology used by golf courses to minimize environmental impact.
  • First Green Program: STEM Meets Golf [18:58]
    • First Green is a STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) program that transforms golf courses into outdoor classrooms.
    • Rhett shares how the program introduces students to the environmental and community benefits of golf.
    • Over 18,000 students have participated, with plans to expand to all 50 states.
  • The GCSAA Trade Show [22:29]
    • Rhett previews the GCSAA conference, the largest of its kind, attracting over 11,000 attendees.
    • Discusses the sustainability hub, hands-on learning tours, and cutting-edge innovations showcased at the event.
    • Highlights the importance of the conference in connecting superintendents, suppliers, and the public.
  • Overcoming Perceptions of Golf and Sustainability [26:50]
    • Rhett addresses misconceptions about golf’s environmental impact, advocating for a narrative shift to highlight its benefits.
    • He emphasizes the role of partnerships, including golfers themselves, in promoting sustainable practices.
    • Shares progress in areas like water reduction (down 29% in the last 15 years) and converting unused course areas into native habitats.
  • Lessons from Mount Everest and the Pursuit of Excellence [31:17]
    • Rhett compares climbing Everest to tackling the challenges of sustainability—both require persistence and focus on incremental progress.
    • He reflects on personal lessons from Everest and how they’ve shaped his leadership at GCSAA.
    • Discusses the importance of staying adaptable and embracing innovation to protect the future of golf.

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Note: Timestamps provided are approximate.

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

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