This program was intended to organize efforts of state agencies, Michigan State University (MSU), and environmental advocacy groups to advance the environmental stewardship of the Turfgrass industry and to recognize environmental achievements. The program was developed at MSU with support from the Michigan Turfgrass Foundation (MTF), Michigan Golf Course Superintendents Association (MiGCSA), Golf Association of Michigan (GAM), Michigan Golf Course Owners Association (MGCOA), Michigan PGA Section (PGA), Michigan Sports Turf Managers Association (MiSTMA), Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) and Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD). The Michigan Water Stewardship Program provided the base funding to develop and operate the program until 2025.
This program is based around 12 modules that need to be completed for certification.
The modules in the program are
- Program Overview
- Site Evaluation
- Wellhead Protection
- Pesticide and Fertilizer Storage
- Pesticide Mixing and Loading Pad
- Pesticide Handling and Application
- Fuel Storage
- Equipment Wash Pad
- Emergency Response
- Buffer Strips
- Green Purchasing, Conservation, & Waste Reduction
- Irrigation
This is a voluntary program that covers laws, regulation and best management practices for environmental stewardship.