Golf big business in Michigan

BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP – Golf is big business in Michigan, from tee times to the number of jobs the game generates.

An independent study found that in 2006, golf in Michigan generated 56,977 direct and indirect jobs and over $1.3 billion in golf-related hospitality and tourism spending. The independent study also established that the state's golf industry generated $4.2 billion of direct, indirect and induced economic impact, along with providing multiple areas of positive economic impact on the state.

The state ranks first in the nation in number of public golf facilities (nearly 850) and third in the nation in the number of 18-hole equivalent courses. Published in September 2007 by SRI International, the study was commissioned by the Michigan Golf Alliance. The study also estimated that the total amount of charitable giving attributed to golf exceeded $118.1 million.

"Taking into account all of the data, golf contributes greatly to the overall economy in Michigan," said Kevin Helm, Executive Director of The Michigan PGA Section.