The availability of “green” products for the golf course management industry is growing steadily. In a business that continues to be under the watchful eye of a discerning public, this is good news.
It’s important for superintendents to keep on top of emerging technologies, especially as the consuming public builds awareness of greener lifestyle alternatives. But, for many in the industry, the new terms and buzz words can be vague or confusing.
Below is a list of popular “green” terms and their definitions to help you understand this developing language.
Environmentally sensitive areas. These designated areas, found on many courses, require special management to protect scenic, historical or cultural values; fish and wildlife resources; and other natural systems. Superintendents should check with their local regulatory agencies to be sure they’re setting up proper buffers zones and following all required run-off precautions to protect these areas.
Sustainability. This term describes systems that will last and can be maintained throughout time. For turf managers, sustainability is a particularly important concept when it comes to turfgrass selection. Research the different species available and select the one most appropriate for the courses’ climate and budgetary challenges.
Renewable energy resources. Renewable energy is generated from natural resources, such as sunlight, wind, rain, tides and geothermal heat. Given the right support and depending on the resources provided by their locale, superintendents can take advantage of these resources in numerous ways.
Natural versus organic. There’s much confusion regarding the difference between these two terms. Generally, “organic” describes a process, whereas “natural” describes a product. A natural product is one derived from naturally occurring elements. An organic process is one that develops a product without the use of synthetic fertilizers or pesticides, genetic engineering, growth hormones, irradiation or antibiotics.
OMRI listed. The OMRI, or Organic Material Review Institute, is a national nonprofit organization that determines which input products are allowed for use in organic production and processing. If a product, such as a fertilizer, is OMRI listed, that product has met the institute’s standards.
Beneficial nematodes. Turf managers looking for an alternative to chemical pesticides have a solution in beneficial nematodes, which work by attacking and controlling specific pests. The nematodes then produce offspring to control subsequent pest generations. Nematodes are 100-percent natural and safe for applicators, golfers and the course.
Biostimulants. Biostimulants – made of components such as sea kelp, humic acids and B vitamins – help deliver needed nutrients to roots in times of stress. This complement to conventional plant nutrients provides superintendents one more way to pursue environmentally friendly turf management practices.
EPA registered. A product that’s EPA registered has been deemed safe for public use by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Superintendents should look for this classification of products when intending to control pests on the golf course. Products not EPA registered but making claims of pest control are considered an illegal use and should be avoided.
Mycorrhizal fungi. These are naturally occurring, nonpathogenic fungal organisms that form beneficial symbiotic relationships with plant roots. The fungi form extensive root-associated networks that permeate the soil. By increasing the absorptive area of colonized roots, these complementary fungal extensions or hyphae help make inorganic nutrients more readily available to plants. GCI
Joe Lara is product manager for Becker Underwood, producer of bioagronomic and specialty turf products for the golf course industry. He can be reached at joe.lara@beckerunderwood.com.
