Three chapters of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) - the Alabama GCSA, the GCSA of New Jersey and the Kansas State University student chapter - recently made donations to GCSAA's philanthropic organization, The Environmental Institute for Golf.

The Alabama GCSA made its annual donation as part of its Golden Tee Club recognition for donors who contribute $1,000 or more annually to The Institute. Alabama GCSA is also recognized at the Executive Club level by The Institute for donors who have contributed $25,000-$49,999 since 1987.

The GCSANJ Foundation held its annual Robert Trent Jones Invitational at Metedeconk National Golf Club in Jackson, N.J., Oct. 12, 2009. The event brings together superintendents and representatives from golf courses along the East Coast to raise funds for scholarships, turf research programs and education initiatives. It also serves to recognize the critical role played by superintendents in developing the vision of the golf course architect and ensuring the integrity of that vision, as famed architect Robert Trent Jones worked with Institute leaders to establish the fund in 1987. Metedeconk is recognized at the Star Club level by The Institute for donors who have contributed $500,000-$999,999 to The Institute since 1987. The 2010 RTJ Invitational is scheduled for Oct. 19.

Kansas State's student chapter raised money by cleaning the school's athletic facilities after home games and felt strongly about making a statement amongst their classmates that golf can be a friend of the environment.

"We greatly appreciate these fundraising efforts and generosity of these GCSAA affiliated chapters," said World Golf Hall of Fame member Greg Norman, Institute trustee and chairman of its Advisory Council. "This support and that of all GCSAA chapters is vital as we focus on continual improvement in regards to stewardship of golf courses."

The Environmental Institute for Golf is a collaborative effort of the environmental and golf communities, dedicated to strengthening the compatibility of golf with the natural environment. The Institute concentrates on delivering programs and services involving research, education and outreach that communicate the best management practices of environmental stewardship on the golf course. Backed by the organizations of Golf 20/20 and the World Golf Foundation, The Institute is leading the golf course industry's commitment to continual environmental improvement through its initiative "Golf's Drive Toward Sustainability." For more on The Institute, visit www.eifg.org.

GCSAAGCSAA is a leading golf organization and has as its focus golf course management. Since 1926, GCSAA has been the top professional association for the men and women who manage golf courses in the United States and worldwide. From its headquarters in Lawrence, Kan., the association provides education, information and representation to more than 20,000 members in more than 72 countries. GCSAA's mission is to serve its members, advance their profession and enhance the enjoyment, growth and vitality of the game of golf. Visit GCSAA at www.gcsaa.org.

For more information contact:
Teri Harris, EIFG senior director, development, 800-472-7878, tharris@gcsaa.org

Josh Chabon, Kansas State University Student Chapter of GCSAA president, 785-532-1428, jdc3553@ksu.edu