Chapter Outreach Grants strengthen local recognition

This is the first in a series of articles highlighting chapters that have received Chapter Outreach Grants and the outcome of their efforts. The program began in 2008, and chapters have used funds from GCSAA in a variety of innovative ways. For more information or to apply for a grant, visit www.gcsaa.org.

The Eastern Shore Association of Golf Course Superintendents was granted money to purchase advertisement and article space in a regional magazine called Eastern Shore Golf Magazine. The articles are aimed at presenting its readers with important information relevant to our responsibilities as golf course superintendent. The bi-monthly magazine already had featured a one page article profiling ESAGCS superintendent members. With the grant money, a second one page article is now be written by one of the chapter members and covers topics such as the role of the golf course superintendent, golf and the environment, and other relevant issues aimed to help educate and inform people the importance of our profession. In addition, the magazines Web site www.esgmagazine.com gives them additional exposure online.

“We have received numerous compliments on the quality and content of the first magazine article from some of our members. We feel as it is giving the golf course superintendents good exposure in our area,” said Eric Snelsire, ESACGS president.

The ESAGCS’s outreach efforts did not begin with grant-funded projects. The have also been involved in regional television. The association participated and provided two-minute spots that aired on a local golf show. One spot talked about irrigation and water use. A second spot provided some information on golf course etiquette on raking bunkers, replacing/fill divots, and fixing ball marks. They plan to expand these efforts even further.

“I would encourage other associations to look into similar ways they can serve their industry and members by gaining articles or exposure in local media or magazines. For our association, I feel it is the start of something that will help each and every one of us in the future,” Snelsire said. “Our association is very grateful for the outreach grant that we were granted from GCSAA. It has provided the money needed to get our foot in the door and provide good exposure for the golf course superintendent. In addition, the support and help of the GCSAA staff with our outreach efforts is helping to improve the overall quality and effectiveness of our message.”