GCSAA names Joshua Tapp director of environmental programs

Former EPA Region 7 acting deputy regional administrator will provide strategic direction for environmental initiatives

Joshua Tapp, an environmental professional with more than two decades of experience has been named as director of environmental programs for the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA). In his role, Tapp will provide overall direction and program management for environmental and research programs including assisting members on environmental matters and working to increase facility and member engagement with implementation of Best Management Practices. He will also provide expertise in supporting advocacy efforts including meetings with regulators, government agencies and environmental groups.

Environmental stewardship is critical to the long-term future of the game of golf. Tapp’s hire is a continuation of GCSAA’s commitment to providing members and the golf course industry with the tools and information necessary to engage in environmentally sustainable practices that benefit the communities they serve.

Prior to GCSAA, Tapp spent more than 20 years with the EPA’s Region 7 office (covering Iowa, Kansas, Missouri and Nebraska), serving in various roles including deputy director of environmental science and technology; director, office of intergovernmental affairs; and acting deputy regional administrator where he successfully led a diverse team of professionals over several disciplines. For his efforts, he was awarded the U.S. EPA Lifetime Achievement Award.

Tapp holds a bachelor’s degree in biology and a master’s degree in environmental health sciences both from the University of Kansas. 

“Josh is a proven leader and strong communicator who is able to engage many different stakeholders and points of view,” GCSAA Chief Operating Officer Kevin P. Sunderman, CGCS, said. “His strong background in environmental science and experience using data to move industries forward will bring direct value to our members and their operations and allow GCSAA to take our environmental programming to the next level.”

Tapp will begin his new position on March 26.

 “I am excited to join such at strong team as GCSAA,” Tapp said. “I know together we can move the needle on sustainability while maintaining a facility’s bottom line and the quality experience golfers expect.”

In addition to Tapp, GCSAA’s environmental programs team includes veteran GCSAA staff member Emily Fuger, senior manager, environmental programs, and Denise Cervantes, administrative coordinator. To learn more about GCSAA’s environmental programs, visit gcsaa.org/environment.

About GCSAA

The Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) is a leading golf organization in the United States. Its focus is on golf course management, and since 1926 GCSAA has been the top professional association for the men and women who manage golf courses in the U.S. and worldwide. From its headquarters in Lawrence, Kan., the association provides education, information and representation to 20,000 members in more than 78 countries. The association’s mission is to serve its members, advance their profession and improve communities through enjoyment, growth and vitality of the game of golf. Visit GCSAA at www.gcsaa.org or find us on Facebook or Twitter.

The GCSAA Foundation is the philanthropic organization of the GCSAA. Its mission is to secure funding and support to strengthen advocacy, education, and research that advances the work of golf course management professionals. Visit the Foundation at www.gcsaa.org/foundation.