ADVOCACY  Take Action  Online advocacy manual

Greens & Grassroots: A Golf Industry Guide to Advocacy This online advocacy manual has been designed to provide you with the necessary tools to become an effective advocate for the golf course management profession. The manual provides you with simple, practical approaches on how to influence the political process and provides you the tools you need to reach out to lawmakers. Sources of information To become an effective advocate for the golf course industry, you can draw upon numerous resources to keep you informed of government relations activity at the federal, state and local level. Information and Public Policy Department services Information and Public Policy Department resources Finding legislative and regulatory information Government information on the Internet State bill status resources Guide to government Developing a basic understanding of the language and the rules of the political process will help you in your government relations efforts. How state legislatures work How Congress works Federal and state regulatory agencies Glossary of state legislative and regulatory terms Advocating your position Learning how to communicate effectively will help you get your message across to lawmakers and regulators. Communicating with lawmakers Personal visits with lawmakers Position statements, position papers and backgrounders Sample position paper template Testifying at hearings Tips for presenting effective testimony Building relationships Creating win-win opportunities where elected and agency officials can get the information they need and you get the exposure you need helps build effective relationships. Getting to know your lawmakers Conducting site visits for lawmakers Rules on gifts to lawmakers Registration as a lobbyist Campaign contributions and PACs Issue management Gaining support for your issue will greatly increase your chance of success with lawmakers and regulators. Managing local issues Coalitions and alliances Building support for your issues Hiring a contract lobbyist GCSAA Legislative/Regulatory Agenda 2007 GCSAA Legislative Regulatory Agenda