GCSAA environmental programs director Johnson retiring

Mark Johnson, the longtime director of environmental programs for the GCSAA, announced his retirement, effective December 12.

Johnson joined the GCSAA staff in August 2005 as environmental programs specialist and was promoted to senior manager of environmental programs in 2007. He was named associate director of environmental programs in 2013, and was promoted to his current role in 2022.

Throughout his tenure, Johnson provided direction and project management for the various environmental programs, tools and services at GCSAA. He was instrumental in the completion of best management practices guidelines in all 50 states and in the development of GCSAA’s BMP Planning Guide and Template to help superintendents create facility BMPs.

Johnson also played a key role in the Golf Course Environmental Profile, GCSAA’s groundbreaking project to develop a comprehensive environmental profile of golf courses in the United States. In addition, he oversaw the awarding of funding to approximately 80 scientific research projects totaling $1.9 million. He served on the EPA Office of Pesticide Programs Pesticide Program Dialogue Committee (PPDC) from 2020 to 2023 and was chair of the Lower Kansas River WRAPS (Watershed Restoration and Protection Strategy) for more than a decade. Johnson also represented GCSAA on the National Turfgrass Evaluation Program Policy Committee.

“In nearly two decades at GCSAA, Mark’s passion and efforts have left an indelible mark on the industry that will continue to have a positive impact on our members for years to come,” GCSAA CEO Rhett Evans said. “His work has been directly responsible for providing superintendents with the scientific documentation they need to demonstrate their environmental stewardship efforts. He has truly lived our mission of serving members and advancing their profession. Mark will be missed, but we wish him the very best as he moves on to a well-earned retirement.”

Prior to and during his time at GCSAA, Johnson’s career focused on outdoor recreation, environmental protection, wildlife and natural resource conservation. He graduated from the University of Kansas with a bachelor’s degree in systematics and ecology.

“Albert Schweitzer is credited with saying, ‘The purpose of human life is to serve and to show compassion and the will to help others,’ and GCSAA afforded me the opportunity to do just that for our members these past two decades,” Johnson said. “I hope any difference I may have made in their lives will be passed along to others who can have successful careers and life experiences. I know that the great men and women in our industry will succeed through service and dedication to others.”

Upon his retirement, Johnson plans to spend quality time with his family and pursue his interest in portrait photography. After his departure, environmental program inquiries to GCSAA can be directed to Emily Fuger, senior manager of environmental programs.