More than 200 guests gather for RISE industry issues breakfast

More than 200 members and guests attended the industry issues breakfast, hosted by The Responsible Industry for a Sound Environment (RISE) during the 2019 Golf Industry Show in San Diego.

Also in attendance were members of the Government Affairs Committee from the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America.

“Now more than ever, it’s important that the voice of golf be heard in the policy arena,” said SiteOne Landscape Supply Governing Board Vice Chairman John Gertz. “As leaders in the green industry, golf course superintendents have the expertise and experience needed to shape effective, smart policies. If there’s one thing we can take away this morning, it’s that we have a powerful impact in the policy conversation when each of us is actively engaged with our communities telling our story.”

Aaron Hobbs, president of RISE said, “We’ve entered a busy legislative year. While the federal government shutdown has ended, multiple bills are still pending in Congress that are vital to the health of our industry and affect our ability to serve our customers and communities. We’ve spoken today about the importance of passing the Pesticide Registration Enhancement Act, known as PRIA 4, as well as a new rule clarifying the definition of ‘navigable waters’ under the Clean Water Act. We remain actively engaged with the administration on these bills and other fronts and look for your continued support.”

Governing Board Member John Smith of Winfield United emphasized the need for community engagement. “State legislatures will be especially busy this year, making it even more important that we show up and participate in discussions. By sharing our concerns, we can have a voice in local and state-level issues and ensure that we continue to have access to products that help keep golf courses open for play,” he said.