Courtesy of RISE
RISE hosted its 31st annual Industry Issues Breakfast at the GCSAA Conference and Trade Show. More than 100 attendees convened to discuss advocacy and engagement on pesticide and fertilizer issues.
Blaine Pinkerton, vice president of turf and ornamental sales, Nufarm, and treasurer, RISE Governing Board, welcomed conference attendees, which included members of the GCSAA Government Affairs Committee and RISE members.
“Golf course superintendents and their teams have a powerful story to tell about the positive and measurable impacts that best management practices (BMPs), including the judicious use of pesticides and fertilizers have on the environment,” Pinkerton said. “The golf industry has long been an environmental leader in creating habitat, enhancing water quality, and creating playable places for recreation.”
RISE President Megan Provost spoke about RISE issue priorities and encouraged attendees to continue advocating for the industry by telling their personal story.
“Sharing personal stories is one of the most powerful tools we have in the grassroots advocacy toolbox across the local, state and national levels of government,” Provost said. “Policy makers and regulators need to hear real stories about real businesses and their practices.”
Provost was joined at the podium by Bedford (New York) Golf & Tennis Club Robert Nielsen Jr., and Woodbridge (California) Golf and Country Club Kurtis Wolford, who shared their personal advocacy experiences on behalf of the industry.
“Talking about best management practices and the positive environmental and recreational impacts golf is making in communities across our county is relatable and effective, and naturally leads to talking about the benefits of the pesticide and fertilizer solutions that support BMPs,” Provost added.