The Connecticut DEP has proposed new legislation that will be very costly to many businesses and municipalities. These changes will eventually affect every golf course in the state that uses more than 50,000 gallons of water per day for irrigation purposes. Previously acquired Water Diversion Registrations will be nullified, requiring all golf courses to apply for a Permit under a new, more stringent process. Additionally, entities that already have a Permit will be exempt only until their next renewal date for that Permit. At that time they will also be required to re-apply under the new guidelines. In addition to the new permit fee structures, the new process will likely require that clubs hire lawyers, hydrologists, and other consultants as representation through the process. The cost could be crippling too many courses and clubs in the State.

Should this legislation pass, clubs currently irrigating with municipal water supplies are also likely see large and lasting increases in their water bills. This is due to the fact that the water companies and municipalities are not exempt from this legislation. Many of these entities will be required to make costly upgrades to their infrastructures and/or develop new water supplies to comply. The projected costs of these upgrades could cost the water companies millions of dollars, which are expenses that would simply be passed along to their customers.

It is very important that all involved in the golf industry in Connecticut pay close attention and get involved in the legislative process to have our concerns heard. The financial ramifications of this legislation have the potential to affect everyone in the business of golf. DEP is holding an informational session on Monday, December 21st from 1:30-4PM in the Phoenix Auditorium at the DEP headquarters in Hartford. This will be followed by a formal public hearing at the same location on January 21 at 9 AM. All interested in the future of golf in Connecticut are encouraged to attend both of these meetings. We should all ask ourselves... who do I know that has influence in the state? You are encouraged to contact your local Legislators and express your concerns regarding this bill. Should you have any additional questions on these items, feel free to contact the following CAGCS Board Members:

Scott Ramsay
Government Relations Chairperson
(203) 392-2371

or

John Garcia
President
(203) 996-6267

Thank you for your immediate attention to this issue, hopefully we will see you on Monday in Hartford.

John Garcia
CAGCS President