Tool Shed: Infrastructure

Infrastructure

Infrastructure enables access, powers facilities, connects people to recreational opportunities, creates opportunities for employment and protects our parks from an increasingly unpredictable natural environment. This area contains resources applicable to planning, installing, and upgrading various aspects of park infrastructure.

The Verdict is in on Synthetic Fields

Mary Helen Sprecher, American Sports Builders Assoc.

Over the years, there has been considerable debate on the human health concerns of synthetic fields with crumb rubber infill. In this summary report, Mary Sprechers shares the results of EPA research report and several studies that point to the safety of synthetic turf. She also highlights several advantages of synthetic turf.

Sustainability in Recreation and Parks: Building a Better Future

David M. Pearlman, Ph.D, CHE, CHIA

Did you know that a grass football field can drink up to 100,000 gallons of water a week? Or that a gas-powered leaf blower can emit 300 times more pollutants than a pick-up truck? With all these potential pollution sources, it makes sense to implement some sustainable practices in our departments. Dr. Pearlman’s article does just that. He provides some actionable tips to make your Parks and recreation spaces more eco-friendly.

Storm-Damage Cleanup – A Greater Hazard

Steven Pregler, Certified Arborist

Storm damage cleanup poses many dangers. Risks include trip hazards, electric wiring, wind and rain, compressed wood, hidden decay and sharp edges. In this article, Steven Pregler shares important safety tips and warnings for all who are about to tackle a cleanup.

Bright ideas: 5 Strategies for Enhanced Outdoor Lighting

Claudia Capraru, Electrical designer

Outdoor lighting for facilities, parking areas and courts greatly affects how users experience your spaces. Learn how to create efficient and aesthetically pleasing lighting in your spaces.

Maintenance Water Quality Management Systems

Vortex

Splashpads vary in their specific maintenance requirements due to differentiating factors such as Splashpad size, bathing load, water chemistry, operating environment, and climate. Before setting your maintenance schedule, it is important to first identify the level of maintenance required to keep your WQMS continually operating at peak efficiency.

Is It Too Old to Save?

Paul Edwardson

Considering a playground replacement? Read this first.

Natural Materials in Playgrounds

Alex Waffle

As natural materials gain popularity, it is vital to ensure their safety and performance.