As we start a new year there is a lot going on with GCSAA. Probably the most pressing issue is the member standards survey. You should have received an email from President Keith Ihms, CGCS, that included a link to the survey. It is very important that you fill this out and let GCSAA know your thoughts on any potential changes to your membership. Right now, the board of directors is looking for feedback from the members so they know how to proceed. Once the surveys are tabulated and the comments read, the board will make a decision as to the proposal to bring forward at the chapter delegates meeting in the fall. The changes could then be voted on at the 2016 annual meeting.
On the government relations front, Chava McKeel and her team continue to work for you to make sure your voice is heard in Washington D.C. In the Great Lakes region, the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative is in full swing with numerous projects going on around the Great Lakes. If you would like to see what is going on around you, google Great Lakes Restoration Initiative and click on the link to the home page. There you will find an interactive map with all of the projects that are taking place.
The pollinator issue is also looming large, especially on the east and west coasts. It seems to be gaining some traction and we as an industry need to make sure the facts are correct. Please let GCSAA know if you hear of any government relations issues that come up on a local level; the earlier the experts can get involved, the easier it is to make sure the right people get the information they need to make the proper decisions.
I wanted to let everyone know that I have resigned my position at GCSAA to become the agronomist for the LPGA Tour. I have enjoyed my time with GCSAA very much. GCSAA is a great organization that is doing a lot of positive things for the game of golf, and in particular for the golf course superintendent. Encourage everyone you know to become a member, it is very rewarding, especially if you put a little time into it. I would like to thank all of the chapter leaders that I have had the opportunity to work with and all the members for making the field staff position so rewarding. I would also like to thank GCSAA staff and the Board of Directors for giving me the opportunity to work for such a great organization. I look forward to seeing everyone in my travels!
