Grass, Innovation, and Precision: The Art of Smarter Water Management

What if the key to the future of golf was hidden in how a course manages its water? For Matteo Serena, Senior Manager of Irrigation Research and Services at the USGA, this question drives his work every day. From native grasses to advanced irrigation systems, Matteo is exploring how courses can use less water without sacrificing playability. With a career spanning research in Italy and the arid Southwest of the United States, Matteo combines a passion for innovation with a deep understanding of turfgrass science. His work with the USGA’s 15-30-45 initiative is transforming how courses think about their most critical resource, offering practical solutions that are already making an impact. Matteo’s journey, from academic research to applying those findings on real courses, is a testament to his commitment to the game. By working with superintendents, researchers, and course managers, he’s helping golf courses thrive while using smarter approaches to resource management. Topics covered: Why Water Use is Central to Golf’s Future (0:00) Matteo’s Journey: From Italy to the USGA (01:56) The USGA Green Section and the 15-30-45 Initiative (7:50) Innovations in Grasses and Irrigation Upgrades (15:40) Technology’s Role in Precision Water Management (24:05) Partnerships and Knowledge Sharing in Golf (31:35) Challenges, Inspiration, and Building a Legacy (36:30) Resources & People Mentioned GCSAA – Supporting golf superintendents with education and resources. TifTuf and Tahoma 31 Cultivars – Drought-resistant grasses for improved water efficiency. Connect with Matteo Serena Matteo Serena on LinkedIn Connect With Golf Sustainability LinkedIn  Facebook  Instagram X (Twitter) Email Subscribe to Golf Sustainability Apple Podcast  Spotify  Note: Timestamps provided are approximate. Thank you for listening to the Golf Sustainability podcast. If you found this episode interesting, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review! For more insights and updates on sustainable energy solutions, visit our website and follow us on social media. Audio, Video, and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK