Skateboard-golf?

Do you like to surf? How about snowboard? Or skateboard? Well, one exuberant start-up is bringing skateboarding to the golf course. Literally. Instead of commuting to your next shot sitting down in a cart next to your playing mate, imagine mounting an over-sized skateboard and traveling standing up, leaning in to the turns as you would on a skate board, snowboard, or surfboard. Sounds kinda fun, right? It certainly does to me!

Golfboard is a new product developed by surfing nut Laird Hamilton and Bally Total Fitness founder Don Wildman. And the company has recently raised 1 million dollars to increase production for a list of backlogged customers in the golf market. Could it be a hit? I don't know, but I think it sounds cool. I like to surf. I like to snowboard. And I like to golf. Three-in-one? Boo yeah! To see the Golfboard in action, check out http://www.bizjournals.com/portland/blog/threads_and_laces/2014/10/bend-company-golfboard-raises-1-million.html

Will it bring more people out to the course? I don't know, but either way I'm a fan of the initiative. Regardless of how it's received in the golf community, it's an innovative product that could reduce turf stress, bring out new golfers, and add a twist of enjoyment to the round. Sounds like win-win -- I'm in. What are your thoughts? Comment below or tweet using #Golfboard.

Water and conservation survey launches

Environmental management is a bit of a “buzz word” in our line of work, and for good reason. Within our inner circles of the golf industry, we realize how responsible we are with nutrient and water management, habitat development, Integrated Pest Management (IPM), Best Management Practices (BMPs), and so forth. And while many of our golfing constituents see these practices embraced and employed each time they hit the links, that may not be true of the general public and our legislators.

The point is, perception is reality; but perception isn’t always aligned with reality. We find ourselves in an era where words like sustainability, going green, organic and stewardship are used to describe practices that govern many industries across the board. And while I think many of us embrace our environmental progressiveness, we need to do a better job of communicating it.

That’s why GCSAA is seeking your help in gathering data about our water and conservation practices. Collected data will be compared to information gathered in 2006 and used to gain a picture of water and environmental stewardship in the profession.

Complete the survey online until Nov. 17 »

For more information, please visit the Golf Course Environmental Profile overview. I want to encourage all golf course superintendents (GCSAA members and non-members) to be champions for this effort. Together, we can use this material for the advocacy and betterment of our profession as we communicate the good things happening on our golf courses. And as always, thank you in advance for your commitment.