If you find the game of golf challenging, speak to a golf course superintendent about the obstacles they face in maintaining golf courses, especially after the unpredictable weather conditions we experienced in 2023. With heavy rains one week and hot, dry conditions the next, keeping a golf course in good condition becomes a complex process.
Unfortunately, there is pending legislation on Gov. Kathy Hochul’s desk that is causing further disruption for golf courses in New York. The legislation, named the Birds and the Bees Protection Act, does nothing to protect pollinators despite its name. Instead, it seeks to ban the use of neonicotinoids, or neonics, which are vital tools for preventing turf pests like white grubs from causing severe damage. Neonics have been a game-changer since they came on the market decades ago, reducing the need for multiple applications and providing successful control of turf grass pests.
It’s worth noting that neonics are primarily applied to the 130 acres of turfgrass found on greens, tees, fairways, and roughs on a golf course, not flowering plants that attract pollinators. Golf courses often have untreated native areas that provide healthy habitats for birds and bees. With precise applications and best-management practices, the impact on birds and other pollinators is minimized.
Golf is a popular activity in New York, and if the use of neonics is prohibited, every golfer will suffer the consequences. Golf courses that choose not to treat their turf may experience widespread damage from insect infestations, leading to poor turf conditions and increasing the need for fertilizers, water, and herbicides to control invasive weeds. Ultimately, this could result in the closure of golf courses if golfers decide to play elsewhere.
Furthermore, this legislation could have long-term effects on the future of golf in New York. With major tournaments and events being held across the state, the golf industry is bringing in significant tourism dollars. However, if the conditions of top courses are compromised due to misguided legislation, we risk losing these events and sponsors.
Golf course superintendents, like myself, undergo extensive training and understand the importance of responsible pest management. We make informed decisions every day to maintain the quality of our turfgrass and courses while prioritizing safety and the environment. This legislation takes away our ability to make these decisions and impairs our environmental stewardship, pushing us towards older products with higher application rates.
I strongly urge Gov. Hochul to reject this flawed legislation and protect New York’s golf industry along with the economic benefits it brings to the residents.
Joe Lucas is the vice president of greens and grounds at Saratoga National Golf Club.
