(San Diego, Calif., February 9, 2022) – RISE (Responsible Industry for a Sound Environment) hosted its 31st annual Industry Issues Breakfast at the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) Conference and Trade Show. More than 100 attendees convened to discuss advocacy and engagement on pesticide and fertilizer issues.
Blaine Pinkerton, Vice President of Turf and Ornamental Sales, Nufarm, and Treasurer, RISE Governing Board, welcomed conference attendees, which included members of the GCSAA Government Affairs Committee and RISE members.
“Golf course superintendents and their teams have a powerful story to tell about the positive and measurable impacts that best management practices (BMPs)–including the judicious use of pesticides and fertilizers–have on the environment. The golf industry has long been an environmental leader in creating habitat, enhancing water quality, and creating playable places for recreation,” Pinkerton said.
Megan Provost, RISE President, spoke about RISE issue priorities and encouraged attendees to continue advocating for the industry by telling their personal story.
“Sharing personal stories is one of the most powerful tools we have in the grassroots advocacy toolbox across the local, state, and national levels of government. Policy makers and regulators need to hear real stories about real businesses and their practices,” said Provost.
Provost was joined at the podium by Robert Nielsen Jr., and Kurtis Wolford, superintendents at Bedford Golf & Tennis Club and Woodbridge Golf and Country Club, who shared their personal advocacy experiences on behalf of the industry.
“Talking about best management practices and the positive environmental and recreational impacts golf is making in communities across our county is relatable and effective, and naturally leads to talking about the benefits of the pesticide and fertilizer solutions that support BMPs,” added Provost.
About RISE
RISE (Responsible Industry for a Sound Environment)® is the national trade association representing manufacturers, formulators, distributors and other industry leaders in the specialty pesticide and fertilizer industry. Visit the RISE website at www.pestfacts.org for more information. Follow RISE on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/RISEPestFacts or on Twitter at @PestFacts.