JOINT PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 30, 2025
Golf in New York Generates $12.9 Billion, Supports 89,000 Jobs, and Sustains 103,000 Acres of Greenspace Statewide
New report reveals golf’s economic strength, conservation leadership, charitable giving, and community impact across the Empire State.
BEDFORD, NY (September 30, 2025) Golf in New York is a $12.9 billion economic engine and steward of 103,000 acres of greenspace, according to the New York Golf Economic & Environmental Impact Report released today. The industry supports 89,044 jobs and $3.8 billion in labor income, contributing $1.03 billion in state and local taxes across the Empire State.
New York golf’s footprint is broad and accessible with 833 total courses, 72% public, and 153 municipal, delivering access across all ten New York regions. In 2023, golfers played 18.2 million rounds statewide and the industry produced a direct economic impact of $6.9 billion, reinforcing its role in New York’s fiscal health, community wellness, and economic development.
“At $12.9 billion in total impact, the game outpaces the combined contributions of the state’s craft beverage sector, horse racing industry, and Yankees home games,” said Bedford Golf & Tennis Club Certified Golf Course Superintendent and New York Golf Course Foundation President Robert Nielsen. “Our vision is to demonstrate golf’s role in advancing sustainable development and community well-being across New York State.”
The report also highlights golf’s efficient and responsible use of natural resources. Nearly every course (98%) employs multiple water conservation practices such as advanced irrigation scheduling, soil moisture monitoring, and the use of wetting agents and drought-tolerant turfgrasses to reduce demand. Collectively, New York’s 103,000 acres of managed green space provide vital ecosystem services, from stormwater filtration to carbon sequestration and pollinator habitat. Courses also diverted 37% of operational waste from landfills in 2023, surpassing diversion rates in both Buffalo (30%) and New York City (21%).
“Golf in New York strengthens our economy and safeguards our environment,” said Huntington Country Club Director of Golf and Grounds, and New York State Turfgrass Association President Tom Kaplun. “Courses account for less than half a percent of the state’s annual water use, while sustaining 103,000 acres of greenspace that filter air and water, support habitat, and reduce urban heat. Superintendents lead in conservation practices while delivering world-class playing conditions.”
New York golf supported $1.7 billion in golf tourism and generated $227.5 million in direct impact from major tournaments and associations. The 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black placed New York at the center of the global golf stage, with upcoming championships extending this momentum, including the 2026 U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills, followed by a slate of U.S. Opens, PGA Championships, and the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship that will keep New York golf in the global spotlight through 2036.
The report further highlights local and charitable impacts. Golf facilities across New York hosted more than 14,000 fundraising events in 2023, raising over $267 million for local charities. From hospitals and schools to Veterans’ programs and youth initiatives, golf serves as one of the state’s most impactful platforms for philanthropy.
“New York golf facilities are active in our communities - nearly 69% of courses offer youth development opportunities through junior golf or scholastic golf teams,” said Metropolitan PGA of America Section Executive Director Jeff Voorheis. “While a third support programming for beginners, seniors, Veterans, military, and individuals with disabilities through initiatives like PGA HOPE and adaptive golf programs – we are committed to making golf accessible for all.”
The New York Golf Economic & Environmental Impact Report was conducted by Radius Sports Group, in agreement with the New York Golf Course Foundation and the Empire State Golf Alliance, with additional collaboration from
Cornell University.
Access the full report at: https://www.newyorkgolfimpact.org/
About Radius Sports Group
Radius Sports Group is a sustainability consulting, data analytics, and community engagement firm focused on connecting sustainability and sports. Based in Reno, Nevada, the firm drives economic, environmental, and community impacts through strategic partnerships with sports franchises, facilities, golf courses, suppliers, and governing bodies. Learn more at: https://www.radiussportsgroup.com/
About New York Golf Course Foundation
The New York Golf Course Foundation (NYGCF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting sustainable golf management practices in New York State, working to integrate environmental stewardship with golf course maintenance through research-based Best Management Practices (BMPs). Established in 2018, it supports New York's golf course superintendents in protecting natural resources and implementing sustainable, research-backed guidelines for turf management to enhance environmental quality and water resources.
About Empire State Golf Alliance
Empire State Golf Alliance (ESGA) is a golf industry alliance of associations dedicated to representing golf courses and organizations across New York state. The Empire State Golf Alliance includes: Adirondack Golf Course Superintendents Association; Central New York Section PGA of America; Hudson Valley Golf Course Superintendents Association; Long Island Golf Course Superintendents Association; Metropolitan Chapter of the Club Management Association of America; Metropolitan Section PGA of America; New York State Chapter of the Club Management Association of America; National Golf Course Owners Association; New York Golf Course Foundation; New York Golf Course Superintendents Association; New York State Golf Association; New York State Turfgrass Association; Northeastern Golf Course Superintendents Association; Northeastern New York Section PGA of America; Metropolitan Golf Association; Metropolitan Golf Course Superintendents Association; and Western New York Section PGA of America.
Media Contacts:
Bob Nielsen, New York Golf Course Foundation, rnbgtc@optonline.net
Sue VanAmburgh, New York State Turfgrass Association, sue@nysta.mobi
Lauren Russell, Radius Sports Group, communications@radiussportsgroup.com
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