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.

Cool-Season Grasses Lawn Maintenance Calendar

University of Missouri Extension, 2015

This summary outlines major steps required to maintain a high-quality lawn year round.

SAMPLE - Integrated Pest Management Plan

Clean Water Services

The approach outlined in this document is being integrated into a regional invasive species Early Detection-Rapid Response (EDRR) program currently under development in the Tualatinbasin. This vegetation management strategy emphasizes education, monitoring for early detection, and control or eradication of invasive species.

Invasive Species Management Plan

City of Austin, TX

This plan outlines goals and actions critical to protecting Austin’s natural resources. The plan also includes recommendations for implementation including staffing, funding sources, centralized mapping and monitoring, and education and outreach.

Playground Reopening Guidance

Kaboom

This guidance complements and builds from existing guidance by the CDC, andthe National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) on playground cleaning andmaintenance that playground owners and operators should consult and integrate asappropriate for their contexts.

Janitorial Restroom Cleaning Step-By-Step Training

Relay Resources

Sample training video for new janitorial staff

Establishing Streamside Buffer Areas in Your Park or Community

Bushkill Stream Conservancy

This document outlines a step-by-step process for establishing “No-mow” areas and naturalized buffers.

Dog Park Maintenance

PlayCORE

With the growing popularity of dog parks, maintenance is an ongoing responsibility affecting most parks and municipalities. This article outlines important maintenance factors to keep in mind.

Sports Field Irrigation System Sprinkler Replacement

Gregory Scott

This video demonstrates how to replace damaged sprinklers and raise the swing joints on an athletic field.

How Do Irrigation Valves Work?

RainBirdCorp

Have you ever wondered how irrigation control valves work? In this short video, we'll take you on a tour inside a valve to learn about the parts and technology that help keep water flowing exactly when and where you want it.

How to install a sprinkler pipe / conduit under a sidewalk

iScraper1

Step by step instructions for installing a PVC pipe under a sidewalk using water pressure.

Gardening Advice - Pruning Spring Flowering Shrubs

RHS - Royal Horticultural Society

See how and when to prune your spring flowering shrubs to produce beautiful blooms next year.

Biggest Pruning Mistakes And How to Avoid Them

joegardenerTV

Learn how to avoid the 3 biggest mistakes when it comes to pruning. Knowing how, when and where to prune is key when it comes to maintaining your trees and shrubs. In this video, Joe Lamp'l shows you how to avoid costly pruning mistakes, and what you need to do to keep your plants and trees looking their best.

How to Prune Landscape Trees and Shrubs

Utah State University Extension

Learn when to prune, how to make proper cuts and gain valuable insight behind pruning techniques for landscape trees and shrubs. Learn the do's and don'ts behind proper pruning practices.

Ask an Arborist: The ABC's of Pruning

Arbor Day Foundation

When pruning your trees, there are steps you can follow to ensure you are making the proper cuts and not removing too much off your tree. The rules of the ABC’s will tell you where to start, what branches to prune, and when you are finished. Follow these rules to help get you started on your tree pruning.

Ask An Arborist: What are the Rules of Pruning?

Arbor Day Foundation

This is part two of a three-part dormant pruning series. Watch part three, the ABC's of Pruning.