The R&A sustainable agronomy best practice

The R&A’s Sustainable Agronomy Service will provide expert insight into golf course management priority issues. We will discuss practical steps every club should be considering and how The R&A’s Golf Course 2030 provides tools to plan and develop a more sustainable golf course.

Learning outcomes

Defining sustainable agronomy for golf courses now and in the future

Best practice planning, actions and projects

Case studies from golf courses implementing successful sustainable agronomy practices

Presented by:

Alistair Beggs

Head of Agronomy

Alistair Beggs joined the R&A in January 2019 having previously worked as Head of Agronomy at STRI. In his career at STRI Alistair has advised on many different types of turf throughout the world. He gained warm season experience in Asia and has provided advice to clients throughout Western and Southern Europe and throughout the UK. He has gained a wealth of knowledge on the management and upkeep of many different types of golf course. Alistair's qualifications include a Biology degree and a diploma in Golf Course Architecture and he a member of the BASIS professional register. He is a regular contributor to industry publications and presenter at turf conferences. Alistair is a keen golfer and member at Royal Liverpool, and Rye. Alistair was Captain of Royal Liverpool in 2014.

Gordon Howat

Senior Agronomist

An experienced specialist sportsturf consultant who has worked in the sportsturf and land drainage industry for over 20 years. Involved in a wide range of projects, that are delivered on time and to a high standard, while being commercially aware and with an eye on value engineering.

An extensive knowledge and understanding of the machinery and products within the sports surfaces industry helps give an excellent background for advising clients on how to achieve their desired playing surface and finish.