‘Links as Labs’ Program Demonstration At Redwoods Golf Course

The Western Canada Turfgrass Association (WCTA), in partnership with the First Green Foundation, launched the first program in Canada that brings environmental education to grade 5 and up students using golf courses as environmental learning labs. On October 2nd, Redwoods Golf Course in Langley hosted 24 middle school students for the initial First Green ‘Links As Labs’ program.

First Green is an innovative environmental education outreach program using golf courses as environmental learning labs, allowing students to perform hands-on experiments and tests, all within the focus of their school’s environmental science curriculum.

“This unique program gets kids connected with golf, not just as a sport, but also as a place where you can learn about the environment,” said Jerry Rousseau, executive director of the WCTA.

“We are working on getting superintendents at golf courses interested in this program so that we can launch it anywhere there’s a golf course.”

Read more about Links As Labs program in this detailed article by Alfie Lau on britishcolumbiagolf.org and learn more about the Western Canadian Turfgrass Association.

Big wheels were a big hit with the grade 8 class from Pitt River Middle School!

Environment Minister Mary Polak speaks to the First Green group at her home golf course, The Redwoods in Langley, BC.

Yes, golf is part of the First Green lesson plan along with science and math!

USGA Agronomist Larry Gilhuly explains some of the behind the scenes technology that helps golf course superintendents manage their courses to a group of Pitt River Middle School students.

Redwoods Golf Course Superintendent Peter Szarka, provides some background on the golf course and the environmental benefits the course brings to the community.

Kris Jonasson, BC Golf Association Executive Director, and Environment Minister Mary Polak.