Irrigation contractors welcome

A quality golf course irrigation system is critical to successful maintenance. And, of course, quality installation is critical for system performance. A bit of carelessness during construction can mean huge headaches down the line, impacting every other component of the course.

The Golf Course Builders Association of America recognizes the importance of precision irrigation installation, and offers a membership category and certification especially for irrigation contractors.

GCBAA offers several membership levels. First-timers join as builder applicants, followed by associate builders, builder members and certified builders. Each level has a unique set of requirements and qualifications. As members expand their skills and professional standing, membership upgrades are available to reflect their career and/or company development.

At the pinnacle of membership is certification. The Certified Golf Course Builder category was established in 1992, when GCBAA launched its certification program. As well as longevity (an applicant must have been in the golf course construction business for five years and provide references), applicants take an exam to show they are familiar with the latest construction techniques. Topics include grading, drainage, seeding, and fertilization.

Once certified, an applicant must renew annually. Continued education is required to ensure members don't rest on their laurels. CEUs are offered by the GCBAA with both classroom and hands-on training at its annual conference.

In the fall of 2013, several Southeast contractors sat down with GCBAA members to talk about industry challenges. At the time, GCBAA had in Irrigation Contractor category. However after a lively and lengthy discussion, it was decided to expand the category and offer even more benefits to irrigation contractors, including certification.

"Specifically everyone wanted to network GCBAA manufacturers, suppliers and consultants with contractors to coordinate education and troubleshooting," says Justin Apel, GCBAA executive director. "GCBAA was up for the task and in 2014 expanded the category, using group feedback."

The GCBAA moved quickly, and at the Golf Industry Show in 2014, its Board of Governors met and adopted the final criteria for a Golf Irrigation Contractor Certification Program.

Certification requirements ensures a contractor is one of the best in the business. Companies must show they have been in the course construction business for at least five years. A company also must have completed successful installation of the equivalent of 90 holes of golf irrigation during the past five years, with at least one complete 18-hole irrigation system installed within the past two years.

References are also required – from their bank, insurance provider, owners, developers, architects, engineers, superintendents, irrigation designers, municipalities and an existing certified member of GCBAA. After an applicant has been qualified, they must also face an interview with the Board of Governors.