Lawrence, Kansas, United States: Joshua Tapp, an environmental professional with more than two decades of experience, has been named as Director of Environmental Programmes for the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA).

In his role, Tapp will provide overall direction and programme management for environmental and research programmes, including assisting members on environmental matters and working to increase facility and member engagement with implementation of Best Management Practices.

He will also provide expertise in supporting advocacy efforts, including meetings with regulators, government agencies and environmental groups.

Environmental stewardship is critical to the long-term future of golf. Tapp’s hire is a continuation of GCSAA’s commitment to providing members and the golf course industry with the tools and information necessary to engage in environmentally sustainable practices that benefit the communities they serve.

Prior to GCSAA, Tapp spent more than 20 years with the EPA’s Region 7 office (covering Iowa, Kansas, Missouri and Nebraska), serving in various roles including Deputy Director of Environmental Science and Technology; Director, Office of Inter-Governmental Affairs; and Acting Deputy Regional Administrator where he successfully led a diverse team of professionals over several disciplines. For his efforts, he was awarded the US EPA Lifetime Achievement Award.

Tapp holds a bachelor’s degree in biology and a master’s degree in environmental health sciences both from the University of Kansas. 

“Josh is a proven leader and strong communicator who is able to engage many different stakeholders and points of view,” said GCSAA Chief Operating Officer Kevin P. Sunderman.

“His strong background in environmental science and experience using data to move industries forward will bring direct value to our members and their operations and allow GCSAA to take our environmental programming to the next level,” added Sunderman.

Tapp, who began his new position on March 26, said: “I am excited to join such a strong team as GCSAA. I know together we can move the needle on sustainability while maintaining a facility’s bottom line and the quality experience golfers expect.”

In addition to Tapp, GCSAA’s Environmental Programmes team includes veteran GCSAA staff member Emily Fuger, Senior Manager, Environmental Programmes, and Denise Cervantes, Administrative Co-ordinator.