Education and Outreach

Education and Outreach

From research and technical education to workforce development and career pathways, the USGA Green Section is committed to supporting the people who care for golf courses. Explore our educational resources, discover programs like the Greenkeeper Apprenticeship Program, and subscribe to the Green Section Record—free and delivered directly to your inbox.

Greenkeeper Apprentice Program

GAP gives FREE advanced education to those who want to further their careers in the turfgrass industry. Attendees receive classroom and on-the-job training, paid, at one of our partner golf courses, in either Pinehurst, NC or Myrtle Beach, SC.

USGA Green Section Record

From the superintendent to the golfer, anyone can benefit from this free digital magazine. The Record is published twice per month and contains a variety of unbiased, ad-free content covering emerging topics and providing timely expertise.

Educational Content

Access a library of educational resources designed to inform golfers, support course communications and promote best management practices. From ball mark repair and frost delays to water conservation, aeration, turf health and course conditioning, these ready-to-use materials help explain the "why" behind golf course maintenance and enhance the golfer experience.

Research

USGA research impacts the game every day. Stay current on the progress of currently funded projects as well as the impact of past projects.

Greenkeeper Apprenticeship Program

With the Greenkeeper Apprentice Program, you will discover a way to maximize your opportunities and skills in the turfgrass industry. But don’t take our word for it. Listen to those who have participated in our most recent GAP cohorts:

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Apply to Greenkeeper Apprenticeship Program

Take your career in the golf course industry to the next level. Applications for the 2027 GAP programs in Pinehurst, SC and Myrtle Beach, SC are being accepted right now. Apply today!

Education - Digital Publication

Green Section Record

From the superintendent to the golfer, anyone can benefit from this free digital magazine. The Record is published twice per month and contains a variety of unbiased, ad-free content covering emerging topics and providing timely expertise. Content includes:

  • Featured: Provides new, technical expertise from our team of USGA Agronomists on emerging golf course management trends and issues.

  • Fore the Golfer: These videos and articles provide the education your golfers want, including topics like "How To Repair a Ball Mark" and "When and How to Fix A Divot."

  • Regional: Check in with agronomists in your area twice every month with these timely updates

  • Research: USGA Research impacts the game every day. Stay current on the progress of currently funded projects as well as the impact of past projects.


Education - Posters

Posters

Display these posters at your course and educate your golfers on the following topics:


Education - Best Practices

Best Practices

The USGA Recommendations for a Method of Putting Green Construction – and the supplementary document, Building the USGA Green: Tips for Success – have been revised. Following a comprehensive review process, the USGA Recommendations have been refreshed to incorporate the latest research, testing procedures and construction techniques for constructing a putting green. Each revision ensures that the USGA Recommendations continue to provide superb performance around the world.

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USGA Course Consulting Service

Educational content can help, but you can get the most out of your relationship with the USGA by having a consulting agronomist visit your facility, provide site-specific recommendations, and provide a personalized road map for your course based on your needs.  

Brooke Heikkila

Joining GAP was one of the best decisions of my life. The program gives you access to amazing resources, hands-on experience and a mentor who is invested in your success. The knowledge you gain is invaluable. There's really very little risk—it's free education, and you get paid while learning and working on a local golf course.

Brooke Heikkila, 2025 GAP Cohort