Grassroots advocacy was on full display this August when GCSAA Grassroots Ambassador Andrew Getty, superintendent at The Prairie Club in Valentine, Neb., hosted U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) for a congressional site visit. The senator spent more than 75 minutes touring the property, hearing firsthand about the challenges and opportunities facing golf facilities and the importance of legislative support.

The discussion focused heavily on the H-2B visa program, which is vital to the success of The Prairie Club’s operation. Getty, along with Director of Agronomy Brandon Arens, General Manager Rick Kimmes and Bill Bieck, a 50-year GCSAA member, shared how labor shortages impact daily operations and painted a clear picture of why the program is essential for many golf facilities nationwide. Sen. Fischer, whose family also faces hiring challenges on their ranch, connected personally with the message and asked her staff to follow up on the Certified Seasonal Employer language being considered in Congress.

Beyond workforce concerns, Bieck highlighted the importance of turfgrass research funding in the Farm Bill. He shared how advancements at the University of Nebraska, including improvements in buffalograss genetics and the introduction of bermudagrass to athletic fields, are shaping the future of turf. Senator Fischer connected strongly with this topic, noting the visibility of turf at Memorial Stadium in Lincoln and the upcoming transition from the current synthetic surface to natural turfgrass in 2026, and expressed interest in meeting with university field managers on a future visit.

The meeting underscored Sen. Fischer’s support for seasonal worker programs and her appreciation for golf’s role in Nebraska’s economy and community. As Getty noted, “I thoroughly enjoyed my first time meeting Senator Fischer. I look forward to hopefully speaking with her annually on her Prairie Club visit during the August congressional recess.”

This visit was an excellent example of grassroots advocacy in action, building meaningful connections and strengthening support for both the H-2B program and turfgrass research priorities.