Products are constantly changing as are the rules and regulations regarding chemical and fertilizer usage.
Superintendents expect to have to abide by even more rules and regulations about chemical and fertilizer use in the future. Already, Spangler says, superintendents must devote more time to being aware of the products they can and cannot use to obtain their pesticide licenses.
Some municipalities and states, such as Wisconsin, have placed limitations on the use of products containing phosphorus. Other areas are facing similar experiences. Bluck says the elimination of phosphorus-containing products is “in the works” in Michigan. “Right now, fertilizers and phosphorus have become a big issue because of algae in Long Island Sound,” reports Ceplo.
“Everybody is trying to go greener,” he continues. “The kinds of pesticides that can be used will be more scrutinized, but public perception seems to be more important than the sciences.”
Snelsire says environmental stewardship is the responsibility of the entire golf industry, not just superintendents, and he expects to see more laws enacted about reporting fertilizer usage. He also says increased pressures could lead to higher costs for chemicals and fertilizers. However, he adds, “It’s second nature to us as superintendents to do the right thing, as our normal protocol.”
Superintendents will continue to educate the golfing and nongolfing public about safe chemical and fertilizer usage through community outreach programs. Their efforts range from inviting groups to their properties to public speaking engagements.
“The industry is changing. There are so many more products available, and the products wouldn’t be out there if there wasn’t a market for them,” Carlson says.
With its mandated emphasis on organic products, Carlson adds, The Vineyard Golf Club is always willing to experiment and try new products, he notes, and he also relies on research by leading universities and the USGA Greens Section.
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