Greenkeeping Realities: Mark Jones on Industry Challenges and Solutions
Episode Overview
The discussion highlights the failings of the current NVQ system within sports turf and its impact on producing quality candidates Mark shares personal experiences and emphasizes the importance of providing comprehensive training and support to young greenkeepers The conversation addresses the struggle golf clubs face in retaining skilled staff and questions the role of institutions like BIGGA in addressing industry challenges Mark and Stuart explore the repercussions of low wages and unrealistic expectations on greenkeepers, offering an eye-opening perspective The episode concludes with a call for innovative solutions to elevate the greenkeeping profession and make it more attractive and sustainable
Golf has always been too cheap in relation to how much it costs to prepare a golf course. It's a race to the bottom.
Join Stuart Butler as he sits down with Mark Jones, a former course manager, for a candid chat about the real issues facing the greenkeeping industry. Mark gives an update on the situation at Morecambe Golf Club and dives into the problems with the current NVQ system in sports turf management.
They also tackle why golf clubs are having a hard time keeping good staff and whether organizations like BIGGA are doing enough to support their members, especially those at smaller clubs. This episode doesn't shy away from tough topics like low wages and high expectations, but it also offers hope with some innovative ideas for making the industry better.
If you're involved in turf management or just curious about the behind-the-scenes challenges of keeping a golf course green, this conversation is both eye-opening and thought-provoking.