Features Profiles
New booklet addresses myths and facts of turf types

  A new booklet published by The Turf Resource Center in Illinois is designed to help decision-makers and the general public make informed decisions regarding the installation of natural grass or artificial turf fields in their communities.

Natural Grass and Artificial Turf: Separating Myths and Facts is a 32-page publication which is based upon information from some of the industry’s most highly-respected research scientists, sports field managers, contractors and other professionals.

The booklet has been produced in an easy-to-read and understood format, providing answers to questions that decision-makers, by their responsible positions, must address. Their decisions will have significant short and long-term health and safety, fiscal and environmental impacts on the constituents within their communities.

Its first chapter presents findings from a National Football League Players’ Association survey to determine players’ experiences and thoughts concerning NFL clubs’ playing surfaces of natural grass compared to artificial turf. A total of 1,511 active NFL players from all 32 teams voluntarily completed a survey form. Their professional opinions are meant to be of significant interest to any decision-maker before either a natural grass or artificial turf installation is to be made in their communities.

Subsequent chapters discuss:

• Cost analysis of various types of sports fields

• Problems with wear, durability and maintenance studies

• Safety and human health issues

• Environmental and cultural benefits

• Safety and health questions to be asked

Each chapter presents information about the differences in natural grass and synthetic turf, with a comparison of advantages, benefits and disadvantages. Case studies, detailed references and in-depth, scientifically-documented information by renowned scientists present the true costs, environmental, safety and other differences between the two types of surfaces.

Throughout the booklet, various “myths” will be presented, followed by scientifically-documented “facts” about artificial and natural turf. The publication states, “While there are situations when artificial turf might be appropriate, scientific research documents the significant environmental, health and safety benefits of natural grass logically should be the first consideration.”

A downloadable version of Natural Grass and Artificial Turf: Separating Myths and Facts is available at www.TurfResourceCenter.org. Also posted at the site is an order form to request 10 or more free hard copies of the booklet with a nominal charge for shipping and handling, subject to approval of The Turf Resource Center. For more information, contact The Turf Resource Center at (847) 649-5555.