What Golf Gets Wrong About Sustainability (And How Rhett Evans Plans to Fix It)

The Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) plays a hugely important role in shaping the future of golf, and few people embody its mission like Rhett Evans. As CEO for over 15 years, Rhett has become the voice for the 20,000 members who manage and care for millions of acres of green space across the country. His leadership isn’t just about turf management—it’s about creating a sustainable future for the game we all love.

Rhett brings a fascinating perspective, shaped by experiences that range from managing NBA franchises to scaling Mount Everest. His journey reflects a rare combination of vision and grit. The conversation touches on the incredible potential of golf to be a force for environmental good and the vital work GCSAA is doing to support superintendents in balancing playability with sustainability.

From innovative education programs like First Green, which turns golf courses into outdoor classrooms, to best management practices that are raising standards nationwide, Rhett shares how golf can lead the way in environmental stewardship. His passion for the game and commitment to advancing its future leave no doubt about the importance of this work.

If there’s one takeaway, it’s this: golf isn’t just a sport. It’s a community, a classroom, and a proving ground for environmental innovation. Rhett’s leadership is ensuring it remains all those things and more for generations to come.

• Introduction and BMP Overview [00:00]
• Rhett’s Journey to GCSAA [3:44]
• GCSAA’s Mission and Member Community [5:52]
• Evolution of Education and Research [9:50]
• Best Management Practices (BMPs) in Detail [11:58]
• Collaborating with EPA on Regulations [17:20]
• First Green Program: STEM Meets Golf [18:58]
• The GCSAA Trade Show [22:29]
• Overcoming Perceptions of Golf and Sustainability [26:50]

• Lessons from Mount Everest and the Pursuit of Excellence [31:17]

Resources & People Mentioned

• GCSAA: Website
• First Green Program: Overview

Connect with Our Guests

• LinkedIn: Rhett Evans
• GCSAA Social Media: Twitter, Instagram

Resources & People Mentioned

• Golf It!: Website
• The R&A: Website
• AIG Women’s Open: Website
• EDGA: Website
• Callaway Golf: Website
• Arnold & Winnie Palmer Foundation: Website
• Russell Smith on LinkedIn

Connect With Golf Sustainability

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• X (Twitter)
• Email

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Note: Timestamps provided are approximate.

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