NON-ECONOMIC BENEFITS
Within the scope of considering golf ’ s contribution to the State of Maine , the NGF has provided a summary review of the impact golf has on facets of Maine society that cannot be measured in terms of dollars and cents . Specifically , our team provided a summary of key impacts this game has on the quality of life in Maine , and to highlight some of the efforts Maine golf courses are undertaking to minimize their effect on the natural environment . To assess the costs and benefits of golf , one must include the social costs and benefits , as well as consideration of how these elements are expected to evolve over time . In addition to the direct economic benefit derived from fees and charges , the presence of golf courses in Maine also provides open spaces , a healthy recreational outlet for residents and visitors , a venue to attract visitors and a good reflection on the image and / or brand of the State .
GOLF ’ S IMPACT ON THE QUALITY OF LIFE IN MAINE
Golf is not only good for a state economy , but also for the physical and social health of its residents through physical exercise , healthy competition , and an outlet for youth and family activities and programming . A total of 116 of the State ’ s 128 golf facilities ( 91 %) are open to the public and provide affordable outdoor recreation as well as additional non-golf activities to nearly 1.4 Maine residents . Traditional golf is not always an option for some . Over time , facilities have introduced other amenities / activities that add to an individual ’ s quality of life and provide other enjoyments besides traditional golf .
GOLF ’ S POSITIVE IMPACT ON THE ENVIRONMENT
³ Maine golf courses comprise a total of 24,576 acres ( golf playing area only ), that are mainly irrigated by natural surface water ( ponds / lakes-61 %) and ground water ( 21 %).
³ Approximately 70 % of Maine golf courses are aware of the GCSAA ’ s Maine Golf Courses Planning Guide and the Best Management Practices and 47 % have already adopted or plan to adopt practices contained in the guide .
³ ME facilities indicated the top four adopted practices were related to golf turf fertilization / nutrient and integrated pest management ( 44 %), pesticide management ( 41 %), and irrigation practices ( 38 %).
The Contributions of Golf to the State of Maine | 2023 Impact Report 32