Conclusion, and a Caveat

Before starting this research, I was suspicious, but relatively neutral on synthetic turf. The more I studied, the more I became aware of the issues, and the more I disliked synthetic turf.

 

• Synthetic turf will cost more in the short term.

• Synthetic turf will cost more in the long term.

• Concussions will be more severe on synthetic turf.

• Turf burns will be more common and more severe on synthetic turf.

• ACL injuries may be more common on syntheic turf.

• Much like tobacco research, the data on the use of rubber for a synthetic field infill is "inconclusive".  With less expensive and less-risky alternatives, we just need to avoid synthetic turf.

• Synthetic turf could limit the use of the field for non-sporting events, such as the annual 4th of July fireworks.

• Synthetic turf will be more expensive to repair than natural grass turf, if damaged due to fireworks, oils or vandalism.

• Synthetic turf is less environmentally responsible than natural turf.

• There are known and unknown legal issues related to synthetic turf, and those issues can best be avoided by having natural grass turf fields.

• Natural grass turf is the best choice for a field.

• Nike Grind will be excellent for an 8 lane track.

 

A recommendation for a natural grass turf field is wise.  Voters, already very sensitive about rising taxes, are unlikely to approve a more expensive, less safe and less environmentally responsible synthetic turf field and are even less likey to want to enter into an long-term agreement to appropriate +/- $400,000 every eight to ten years to remove and replace the synthetic turf.

 

In time, we may find other schools will re-think their synthetic turf decision.  Your town or city can set the example, and install a natural grass turf playing field.

 

Having a local 8 lane track will eliminate the need to bus athletes to neighboring tracks to practice, which saves time and  gives the students more time to study and run.  It will also save gas, reduce pollution, and reduce the wear on the buses.

 

If I have made any errors in my research, please contact me on the Contact page.  The truth is what is important. The more we all learn, the better.  I have provided several links to information that I have discovered during my research, but there are countless more that I did not post.  This was not a trivial effort, and I hope that you find that it was worthwhile.