Gatineau

Following industry engagement, the requirement for Audubon Certification was removed from Gatineau’s pesticide bylaw. Golf facilities must implement practices aimed at reducing pesticide use and promoting environmentally responsible management before January 1, 2027. Facilities will be required to provide the pesticide reduction plan approved by their agronomist and submitted to the Ministry of the Environment.

Sherbrooke

NGCOA Canada has participated in discussions with local golf facilities and municipal environmental advisors. These discussions have focused on recognizing the work already underway at golf facilities and exploring the GEO Foundation commitment and a potential pathway toward certification. Members will be updated as the municipality’s approach develops. A follow up meeting is planned for January 2027 between local golf facilities and municipal environmental advisors.

NGCOA Canada has met with Alto regarding the proposed high-speed rail corridor between Quebec City and Toronto. We emphasized the significant operational and property impacts that route planning and potential expropriation could create for golf facilities, particularly where only part of a course property is affected.

The final route has not yet been confirmed. NGCOA Canada will continue monitoring the project and representing the interests of potentially affected golf facilities as planning advances.

NGCOA Canada is advocating on behalf of golf facilities affected by the City of Gatineau’s parking lot tax. Our efforts focus on ensuring that the size, use and unique operating realities of golf course properties are considered in the application of the tax.

NGCOA Canada is recommending provincial support for the automation and modernization of turf maintenance equipment. Greater access to modern technology would help golf facilities improve productivity, respond to labour shortages and reduce their environmental impact.

NGCOA Canada continues to advocate for businesses to be able to deduct eligible golf-related entertainment expenses on the same basis as other entertainment activities. This change would improve industry competitiveness and support golf facilities seeking to attract corporate customers and events.

Research conducted with Quebec golf course operators demonstrates the effect of the current rules and the importance of correcting this longstanding tax inequity.

To help address seasonal and regional labour challenges, NGCOA Canada has recommended reinstating Quebec’s career extension tax credit for workers between the ages of 60 and 64. The measure would help encourage experienced workers to remain in or return to the workforce.