This program is intended to organize efforts of state agencies, Michigan State University (MSU), and environmental advocacy groups to advance the environmental stewardship of the Turfgrass industry and to recognize environmental achievements. The program was developed at MSU with support from the Michigan Turfgrass Foundation (MTF), Michigan Golf Course Superintendents Association (MiGCSA), Golf Association of Michigan (GAM), Michigan Golf Course Owners Association (MGCOA), Michigan PGA Section (PGA), Michigan Sports Turf Managers Association (MiSTMA), Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) and Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD). The Michigan Water Stewardship Program provides the base funding to develop and operate the program.

• This program is based around 12 modules that need to be completed for certification.
• Once completed a site visit is conducted to verify all items are completed by a trained MTESP Stewardship Specialist.
• The modules in the program are
  1. Program Overview
  2. Site Evaluation
  3. Wellhead Protection
  4. Pesticide and Fertilizer Storage
  5. Pesticide Mixing and Loading Pad
  6. Pesticide Handling and Application
  7. Fuel Storage
  8. Equipment Wash Pad
  9. Emergency Response
  10. Buffer Strips
  11. Green Purchasing, Conservation, & Waste Reduction
  12. Irrigation
• All of the modules were created with help from the DEQ, MDARD and DNR and are reviewed on a yearly basis to keep them compliant with new laws and regulations.
• This is a voluntary program that covers laws, regulation and best management practices for environmental stewardship.

For more information on this program please contact us at admin@mtesp.org