The British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA), has thanked the 1,141 individuals who participated in the association’s recent membership survey.
Responses were received from across the United Kingdom, with a further 7% of participants contributing from outside the UK. The survey attracted input from professionals at every level of the greenkeeping and turf management industry, with 44% of respondents identifying as course managers or head greenkeepers.
Notably, just under 30% of respondents indicated they were not currently members of BIGGA. Their feedback was of particular interest to the association as it seeks to gain a well-rounded understanding of BIGGA’s reputation within the industry and explores opportunities to enhance its membership offering.
Survey participants were given the chance to enter a prize draw to win a £500 Amazon voucher. Craig Denton, assistant greenkeeper at Lindrick Golf Club, was announced as the winner.
Craig said: “I was really surprised to win. I don’t usually enter anything, but I thought I had 10 minutes to spare, so why not? After completing the survey, I went into work and told the other lads to take part because it helps everyone – not just BIGGA but us greenkeepers as well.
“I think we all have to stick together and BIGGA tries very hard, especially with the education on offer at Harrogate. They need feedback from us members if they’re going to keep improving.”
This survey provided the biggest opportunity in a generation for those working in the turf industry to share their views on the future of BIGGA. Work is now underway to analyse the results and explore how the findings can be implemented.
Further discussions about the survey’s findings will take place at the BIGGA Turf Management Exhibition in January 2025, where Scott Reeves, BIGGA Head of Membership, will present the results to attendees of the annual trade show.
Scott said: “Thank you to everyone who took part in our survey. We’re delighted with the strong response – 1,141 participants – which reinforces that BIGGA continues to play a vital role in the golfing industry. It’s also clear that greenkeepers are passionate about the association and the community it fosters. The hard work now begins as we analyse the results and consider how the findings can be adopted into the everyday practices of the association and our team.”
Greenkeepers and the wider turf management industry will have the opportunity to further discuss the survey’s findings at the BIGGA Turf Management Exhibition, taking place in January 2025 at the Harrogate Convention Centre. More information and free registration are available at www.btme.org.uk