There isn’t a person inside or outside of the golf industry who does not want to ensure the safety of individuals who work, play or live on or adjacent to a golf facility.
In my interactions with people who are entrusted with shaping policies that affect golf course superintendents it is rare when I hear any criticism of the industry and the people who manage golf courses. I credit that to the expertise and professionalism of GCSAA members and the philosophy GCSAA takes in being part of the solution, rather than part of the problem. GCSAA has an excellent relationship with the EPA and often collaborates with it on projects and information needs.
Recently, the EPA asked for comments in response to the Draft Guidance for Pesticide Registrants on Pesticide Drift Labeling. GCSAA responded that golf
Throssellfacilities would be negatively impacted by the draft guidance. On the surface, such a position would tend to imply that we are against a measure that would provide safeguards to humans. Nothing could be further from the truth. We certainly believe the EPA had the best intentions in mind when crafting the language. However, we believe as written it opens up facilities for potential frivolous legal action by establishing unachievable zero drift standards. The language is so broad and open to wide interpretation that the measure is counterproductive to the original intent.
We suggest the EPA should maintain and comply with the FIFRA risk-based standard of “no unreasonable adverse affects”, and remove the proposed “could cause adverse effects” or “could cause harm.” GCSAA certainly applauds the EPA for its efforts to reduce the potential impact of spray drift to people and the environment. We also applaud the process it uses to engage stakeholder feedback.
While the focus of our comments was on the proposed language, it also reinforced the education, training and talents of golf course superintendents. Use of Integrated Pest Management, employing licensed applicators, monitoring weather, utilizing technology, and using drift control applicators reflect an industry and a group of professionals that proactively protects the environment. If we are to continue to receive that level of respect, we must be committed to high standards of professionalism.
The popularity of golf is due in large part to the professionals who manage and maintain golf courses. Failing to live up to this standard would have dire consequences not only for the profession but for the game as well.
About the author
Clark Throssell, Ph.D., is GCSAA's director of research.
