New York State Golf Course BMP Guide:A Cornerstone of Environmental Stewardship

New York has been a leader among states in codifying and implementing Best Management Practices (BMPs) starting with its first codified BMP document in 2014. The New York State Golf Course BMP Guide is a statewide roadmap created through collaboration among the DEC, industry associations, Cornell University, and superintendents. It provides research‑based protocols that 99% of surveyed superintendents deem valuable, with nearly half rating it ‘very to extremely valuable.’ Covering water, nutrients, IPM, pollinators, energy, and waste, the Guide translates science and regulations into clear, actionable practices. By standardizing practices and offering state-approved protocols, the Guide unites stakeholders in protecting watersheds, enhancing wildlife habitat, and positioning golf as a leader in sustainable land management.