January 2011 - Parks & Recreation - 79

Whether you are out for a round with
some friends, conducting formal
business in a friendly, competitive
atmosphere or introducing your
son or daughter to a practice range
for the first time, the golf course
remains a truly unique place.
-Erik Larsen, President,
American Society of Golf Course Architects
retention pond and several acres of man-made wetlands to serve as
an attractive, effective overflow network. Ducks, heron and egrets
have since found a home at Deerpath. The wetland system is working effectively to filter the polluted off-site water before it re-enters
the nearby Skokie River.

introducing your son or daughter to a practice range for the
first time, the golf course remains a truly unique place. And
we can't forget the health benefits that come from being outdoors, " Larsen said.
Walking a golf course leads to better health. Anyone looking for a moderately paced cardiovascular workout will benefit by walking nine or 18 holes designed around the natural
undulations of the land. A recent MSN.com article cited additional benefits of walking, including lowering the risk of Type
2 diabetes, reducing stress, preventing heart disease, and decreasing patients' need for medication.

ASGCA members are experienced in designing for maximum
environmental benefit. The third edition of " An Environmental
Approach to Golf Course Development " explains design tenets
used by members. Case studies also illustrate examples of these
best practices. Also, ASGCA has created a free, one-page
information sheet detailing the focus placed on water and the
environment. For information or to obtain these pieces, visit
www.asgca.org or call (262) 786-5960.

Golf Industry Economic Impact of $76 Billion
According to research conducted by the World Golf Foundation, the economic impact of the game is equally impressive.
Golf is responsible for two million jobs in the United States and
each year generates $76 billion in revenue. The golf industry
employs 160,000 people in California alone, leading to a direct
impact on the state's economy each year of $6.9 billion.
NRPA members, in their survey, also highlighted the positive economic impact a golf course has on the community.
About 90 percent of respondents said a golf course heightened
surrounding property values, while more than 80 percent cited
golf's role in creating jobs and generating sales tax revenue.
Studies indicating the positive impact green space and
parks have on U.S. home and real estate values date back to
1873, when it was shown homes near New York's Central Park
rose at an appreciably higher rate than those just a block or
two removed from the park. Surveys show people rank open
space, natural beauty, and parks as important when making
home-buying decisions.
Golf course architects have worked for generations to ensure that in the process of designing fun, challenging courses,
park space is preserved, the natural beauty of land enhanced,
and the desires of homeowners met.

Living a Friendlier and Healthier Life...One Hole at a Time
The social and health benefits of golf deserve greater attention.
" Whether you are out for a round with some friends, conducting formal business in a friendly, competitive atmosphere, or
Circle 24 on product information form on PAGE 87

www.NRPA .ORG

JANUARY 2011

Parks & Recreation 77

January 2011 - Parks & Recreation

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