RISE Leaders discuss advocacy and engagement at GCSAA show

Superintendent Robert Nielsen Jr. (at the podium) presents his industry advocacy experiences alongside RISE President Megan Provost and Nufarm’s Blaine Pinkerton who serves as the treasurer for RISE’s Governing Board. (Photo courtesy of RISE)

RISE (Responsible Industry for a Sound Environment) hosted its 31st annual industry issues breakfast at the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (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 for Nufarm and treasurer of the 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,” said Pinkerton. “The golf industry has long been an environmental leader in creating habitat, enhancing water quality and creating playable places for recreation.”

Megan Provost, RISE president, spoke about the issue priorities for the organization and encouraged attendees to continue advocating for the industry.

“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,” said Provost. “Policymakers and regulators need to hear real stories about real businesses and their practices.”

Provost was joined at the podium by Robert Nielsen Jr. and Kurtis Wolford, superintendents at Bedford Golf & Tennis Club and Woodbridge Golf and Country Club, who shared their personal advocacy experiences.

“Talking about best management practices and the positive environmental and recreational impacts golf is making in communities across our county is relatable and effective,” added Provost. “Naturally that leads to talking about the benefits of the pesticide and fertilizer solutions that support BMPs.”