Tool Shed

Our Tool Shed is a resource library designed for professionals working within all aspects of park maintenance. We continually research best maintenance practices from all industries to gather videos, articles, templates, and websites and store them in one place for our members. We spend the time to sift through the noise and provide you with valuable information when you need it, so you can focus on developing solutions. If there is something you need but cannot find, reach out and share your specific needs.

Stakeholder Management Resource Management Financial Management Benchmarks Playgrounds, Wellness, and Physical Equipment Pools, Boating, and Swimming Areas Trails and Greenways Park Structures Accessibility and Inclusion Custodial and Grounds Infrastructure Greener Approach Athletic Fields and Sport Facilities Natural Landscapes and Open Spaces Invasive Species and Pest Control Irrigation and Nutrition Journeymen's Guide Mechanic's Guide Contractor's Guide Front Office Guide Landscape

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.

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.

Designing and Maintaining a Pool Maintenance Plan

Michelle Gable, AFO, CPO

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Incorporating Natural Elements into Play Spaces: Trends and Benefits

Michelle Keyser

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

Playground Maintenance & Inspections

Jeff Barber and Steve Lauzun

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

The Latest in Playground Grounds

Kenneth Kutska

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