Tool Shed: Custodial and Grounds

Custodial and Grounds

A well-trained custodial and grounds crew knows what to do, why they are doing it, and how best to take care of park maintenance. This area contains resources applicable to staff organization, health and safety, and efficient logistical approaches to improve custodial and grounds operations.

Recognize Hazardous Defects in Trees

US Forest Service Northeastern Area Pub# NA-FR-01-96

This publication by the US forest Service can help you to identify trees in a hazardous state

Designing and Maintaining a Pool Maintenance Plan

Michelle Gable, AFO, CPO

An overview of the necessary elements for developing a pool maintenance plan.

Guidelines for Maintaining Streams in Your Community

PA DEP Pamphlet

Does DEP need to be called before you work in a stream? This pamphlet guides that decision.

Overview of PA’s Recreational Use of Land and Water Act

WeConservePA

An information sheet outlining the protections and liabilities of the Recreational Use Act for municipal and private landowners.

Lawn Management Through the Seasons

Peter Landschoot, PhD Former Professor of Turfgrass Science PSU

A concise information article with annual turf management chart for athletic field and lawn management in Pennsylvania.

Parks Under Pressure: Improving resilience through asset management

Jennifer Pekins

A realistic look at the pressures our parks face and how we can begin to navigate them.

Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design Guidebook

Self-Published

In the 5th installment of this 7-part series, the author provides you with step-by-step instructions on how to handle a pesticide accident.

Three Reasons Employees Fail to Meet Expectations and How Leaders Can Help

Chris Stevenson, The Empower Group

Leaders need to set the tone for their team to manage resources and foster a collaborative environment.

On the Job After Natural Disasters, Part 1

John Ball, Ph.D., CTSP

With more extreme weather events, natural disasters have become more common. Learn what you can do to manage these jobs and minimize risk.

Canada Geese: The Bird Control Challenge of the Decade

Marcia Anderson, PhD, U.S. EPA

Having trouble with Geese at your park, ponds or open spaces? Then this article is a must-read

Product Management Part 5: Pesticide Handling, Spill Response and Maintenance

Kathy Glassy, Inspire Green Inc.

In the 5th installment of this 7-part series, the author provides you with step-by-step instructions on how to handle a pesticide accident.

Developing Safety Programs That Stick

David Vincent - Director, Guardian Group Safety and Leadership Solutions

A safety program that sticks is more about culture than compliance. Leadership has to demonstrate that it is more than a box to check. Learn more here.

Incorporating Natural Elements into Play Spaces: Trends and Benefits

Michelle Keyser

Learn more about this back-to-basics natural trend for playgrounds

The Latest in Playground Grounds

Kenneth Kutska

Learn about new standards created to meet the latest trends in playgrounds, higher structures, and trolley rides.

Playground Maintenance & Inspections

Jeff Barber and Steve Lauzun

Read about how proper maintenance can create safe, functional and beautiful playgrounds for all.