Turfgrass Benefits and the Golf Environment

There is a need to recognize and quantify the beneficial contributions of turfgrasses when properly maintained as part of a positive golf course environment. Specific functional benefits include: excellent soil erosion control and dust stabilization; enhanced runoff water entrapment and soil water infiltration; improved biodegradation of organic compounds; soil improvement and restoration of disturbed lands; substantial urban heat dissipation; reduced noise and glare; decreased noxious pests, allergy-related pollens, and human diseases; and a favorable wildlife habitat. The recreational-health benefits include enhanced physical health of participants and a unique low-cost cushion against personal injuries; plus improved mental health with a positive therapeutic impact and an overall better quality-of-life, especially in densely populated urban areas. This paper updates a 1992 publication concerning our current state of knowledge as to the benefits of golf course turfs as documented by scientific data.