Being able to measure and evaluate data is transforming the golf business, from helping courses improve pace of play to more efficient buying practices in the golf shop. As Pringle noted, the data revolution is also taking place on the golf course in terms of water and resource management.
Josh Tapp, the Director of Environmental Programs for the GCSAA, is at the forefront of watching data drive the next generation of golf course management, and he believes it presents multiple opportunities for golf facilities to improve their businesses and their environmental footprints.
“Data-driven decisions are continuing to improve all aspects of golf course management. Data showing golfer behavior, resource usage and more helps everyone make informed decisions for optimizing performance and improving the overall golfer experience,” Tapp says. “Artificial Intelligence (AI) will play an increasing role in the collection, aggregation and analysis of this data that not only informs our operators, but also helps us tell our story to lawmakers, regulators and the general public.”
Another trend Tapp sees taking shape quickly in golf is an increase in automated maintenance equipment. A number of courses are using robotic mowers, guided by GPS, to mow roughs and even fairways, though automated mowers for greens are still a work in progress. Robot mowers can reduce the amount of manpower needed, and can be used when the course is closed at night to minimize interruptions for golfers. Tapp envisions these mowers and other new technologies continuing to make golf course maintenance more sustainable and cost-efficient.
“Automated tools represent a real opportunity in the area of sustainability,” Tapp says. “For example, robotic mowers, which interrupt play less because they can operate on ‘off’ hours, are often a more sustainable option because they reduce on-site emissions and noise pollution at lower operational costs.
“Another example is precision irrigation systems that utilize sensors and weather data to optimize water usage by ensuring water is delivered precisely when and where it is needed, minimizing waste, water, nutrient and pesticide runoff. GPS controlled sprayers are also a great way to ensure that pest control products are applied exactly where intended to minimize risk of impacting unintended targets.”
Automated and advanced equipment should be something golf facilities explore as they plan capital expenditures and plan their next equipment upgrade cycles. Many courses have switched their golf car fleets to models with lithium-ion batteries, which require less maintenance and fewer chemicals than those with gas engines or older electric batteries, and can be less destructive to turfgrass. Other facilities have made improvements as simple as adding energy-efficient LED lighting and motion sensors to turn off lights when not in use, which can save tens of thousands of dollars in energy over the course of a year at a large operation.
“Facilities’ investments in new technology will not only add to golf’s positive environmental impact but can provide valuable efficiencies and savings overall,” Tapp adds.
