COVID-19 BMP's for Sportsfields Being Worked On

WCTA staff’s intimate involvement in creating the Allied Golf Association of BC’s ‘Best Management Practices For Responsible Operation of Golf Courses’ resource, posted in draft form on April 21, has provided substantial insight into BMP requirements and writing amidst the current COVID-19 outbreak.

In support of our sportsfield manager members, a sub-committee consisting of Gary Bartley UBC Athletics, Andre Dionne, City of Coquitlam and WCTA Executive Director, Jerry Rousseau, has been created to address the need for BMP’s in this sector.

“Two meetings have already taken place and we have a great start,” commented Rousseau, adding, “There are a lot of golf similarities we can draw from and AGA’s template is outstanding but of course there are significant differences and unique situations for our sportsfield personnel that need to be addressed.”

“Understanding that every operation is different, as are federal, provincial and municipal requirements, is key to the process of creating an industry resource that helps mitigate health and safety concerns,” explained Bartley.  “By creating a minimum standard, we can write protocols that will be applicable to most Sportsfield managers and staff.”

Added Rousseau, “This type of initiative isn’t entirely new to us but the scale of addressing COVID-19 challenges is.  BC Golf Courses now have an amazing resource, as good as anything out there, and we are looking to provide the same for sportsfields.”