GCSAA is always excited to see Grassroots Ambassadors connecting directly with congressional staff. One such engagement recently occurred when Casey Anderson, assistant superintendent at Park Nine Golf Course in Fort Collins, Colo., hosted Max Coker, field representative from the office of Congressman Joe Neguse (D-CO), alongside fellow ambassador Ethan Howard, assistant superintendent at Pole Creek Golf Club in Tabernash, Colo. This site visit was a resounding success, as Casey brought together a strong local delegation to participate, including Park Nine’s director of golf, the director of parks, and the manager of community services for the City of Fort Collins, each of whom spoke to the value that municipal golf brings to the Fort Collins community.  

The visit served as an educational deep-dive into the golf industry and turf management for Max. Topics ranged from turfgrass science and soil health, to irrigation technology, pollinator habitat, realistic expectations for adoption and implementation of electric and autonomous power equipment, and the challenges posed by aging infrastructure. The group also discussed pesticide preemption – a big topic in Colorado – and what the appropriate role for each level of government to play is when regulating pesticide use.   

The meeting sparked such a meaningful conversation that a follow-up visit is already in the works. Plans are underway to welcome Rep. Neguse himself to Park Nine for a future visit. Additionally, Casey and Ethan hope to get Max out to Pole Creek for a visit in the coming months. The goal is to continue the conversation, enhance understanding and demonstrate the distinct differences in setting, scale and challenges between the two golf courses. 

This site visit underscores the power of grassroots advocacy and the importance of direct engagement with congressional staff to build relationships and promote informed decision-making on key industry issues. The August congressional recess is the perfect time to host such a meeting with elected officials and staff, and we encourage all ambassadors to do so. If you are looking for pointers on how to host a site visit, see our GCM article from a few years back,  "Recess is prime connection time." If you need help setting up a meeting, schedule time with Kelly Lonker, GCSAA grassroots advocacy specialist, and GCSAA will be more than happy to get the ball rolling for you.