On April 28, 2011, at Quarry Oaks Golf Course, Ashland, NE, Governor Dave Heineman along with the Nebraska Section PGA, Nebraska Golf Course Superintendents Association, the Nebraska Golf Association, the Nebraska Women’s Amateur Association, Nebraska Club Managers Association, the Midwest Golf Course Owners Association, and the Golf Course Builders Association of America celebrated the second annual Nebraska Golf Day.

Nebraska Section PGA President Cory Fletcher shared that, “The purpose of this event is to educate state leaders and the media on the economic, human, and environmental benefits of golf. Nebraska Golf Day also demonstrates how the allied associations join as a coalition to speak with one voice about issues important to the game of golf.”

This new coalition has geared up to tell the stories of golf’s diverse businesses and their employees, the tax revenues it creates, the tourism it spawns, the charity it generates and the environmental leadership it provides.

Fletcher cited that “there are approximately 27.1 million golfers in the United States. The golf industry is responsible for 2 million jobs in the U.S. and generates $61 billion in wage income annually. The golf industry also raises approximately $3.5 billion for charitable causes each year.”

Chad Giebelhaus, President, Nebraska Golf Course Superintendents Association explained, “that golf course irrigation accounts for 0.5% of the 408 billion gallons of water used daily in the U.S. and fewer than 15% of golf courses utilize municipal water supplies. Golf courses serve as good neighbors having the ability to use recycled and reclaimed water that other industries are unable to utilize.”

Governor Heineman proclaimed April 28, 2011 as Nebraska Golf Day and participated in an honorary tee shot off the 10th tee box at Quarry Oaks Golf Club. Governor Heineman remarked, “Golf helps to teach essential life skills to young people including sportsmanship, respect, integrity, honesty, and self-control,” said Governor Dave Heineman. “I applaud the efforts of those involved with this sport and am please to proclaim April 28 as Nebraska Golf Day.”

During his remarks, Governor Heineman also promoted a new campaign by the Department of Economic Development’s Division of Travel and Tourism encouraging golfers in neighboring states to “Get Driving” to Nebraska for a golfing getaway. Governor Heineman stated, “The quality, variety and value of Nebraska golf courses make our state an attractive destination for golfers.”

About WE ARE GOLF

Led by the Club Managers Association of America, the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America, the National Golf Course Owners Association, The PGA of America and the World Golf Foundation, WE ARE GOLF is a coalition formed to tell the true story of golf. Not just the game, but the stories of the hardworking men and women who make it the greatest sport in the world and whose livelihoods depend on it. It is these accounts that affirm the continued health and growth of the golf industry is vital to thousands of communities across the country and instrumental in enhancing the lives of millions of Americans.

By showcasing golf’s diverse businesses and their employees, the tax revenues it creates, the tourism it spawns, the charity it generates, and the environmental benefits it provides, WE ARE GOLF is leveling the playing field for the thousands of small businesses that make up the industry and two million jobs that depend on the sport for their success. Please visit www.WeAreGolf.org for more information.