GCSAA First Green Brings STEM to Heritage Park

On October 7, 2026, Heritage Park Golf Course transformed its practice facilities into a living, hands-on classroom for a special GCSAA First Green event . First Green is an innovative environmental and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) education program of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America. By using golf courses as environmental learning labs, the program allows students to step out of the traditional classroom and experience firsthand how STEM concepts are applied in real-world agronomy and course management.

During their visit, students explored the local ecosystem and the science of turfgrass management. They got up close with nature by identifying the various insects that inhabit the golf course and learning about their vital ecological roles. The agronomy lessons continued as students tested the soil's water and pH levels, discovering the careful chemistry required to maintain healthy turf . They also applied physics and math on the greens, learning how to use a Stimpmeter to measure exactly how fast the greens were rolling .

Beyond the science, the kids were given a crash course in daily operations and the fundamentals of the game . They rolled up their sleeves to learn the precise techniques for changing hole locations and the proper method for raking sand bunkers . To cap off the day, participants grabbed clubs to practice the basic mechanics of chipping and putting, walking away with a newfound appreciation for both the environmental stewardship and the athletic skill involved in the game of golf .