Golf in Southern Nevada is more than just a game; it’s a crucial part of the state’s economic health, environmental stewardship, and community wellness. In his recent article, Brian Hurlburt explores how Nevada’s golf industry generates nearly $2 billion in economic impact, creates over 17,000 jobs, and contributes millions in tax revenue. Beyond these economic benefits, golf courses are sustainable green spaces that help cool the surrounding areas, reduce stormwater runoff, and recharge groundwater—directly impacting the quality of life for everyone, not just golfers.
Non-golfers may be surprised to learn that golf courses serve as effective “urban parks,” delivering critical environmental benefits that extend well beyond the fairways. These lush, green areas cool surrounding neighborhoods, reduce heat in urban spaces, and act as stormwater management systems, protecting homes and infrastructure. With water management at the forefront, golf courses in Las Vegas are prime examples of responsible resource conservation, saving billions of gallons of water annually through innovative landscaping and strategic irrigation.
Why Non-Golfers Should Value Golf Courses
- Community & Cooling Benefits: Non-golfers benefit from the cooling effects of golf courses, especially in urban areas. Studies show that golf courses can reduce temperatures by up to 600 meters beyond their boundaries, helping to combat the urban heat island effect and reducing local energy demand for air conditioning.
- Environmental Resilience: Golf courses also capture and filter stormwater, reducing flood risk in nearby neighborhoods. Courses like the Club at Sunrise have been specifically designed to manage stormwater effectively, meaning they offer practical, protective benefits for the entire community.
- Support for Local Economies: Even for non-golfers, the jobs, tourism, and tax revenue generated by golf courses have a positive economic ripple effect, supporting local businesses and enhancing public services.
In a region where every green space counts, the Nevada Golf Alliance urges everyone to recognize the vital role that golf courses play—not just as venues for recreation but as community assets that support a sustainable, resilient, and healthier Nevada. Whether you’re a golfer or not, these courses offer benefits that everyone in Southern Nevada can appreciate.
