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 subscribers. 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

Sheet Mulching: Lawn to Garden Bed in 3 Steps

Penn State Extension, 2020

Never dig up turfgrass again! With sheet mulching, you can easily transform lawn areas into a new garden bed. You will use readily available, sustainable materials and zero chemicals. This video will show you how!

Herbicides and Forest Vegetation Management

Penn State Extension, 2014

"This article examines the use of forestry labeled herbicides to manage woodland vegetation, including choosing the right herbicide

Transplanting or Moving Trees and Shrubs in the Landscape

Penn State Extension, 2007

When you realize that a large shrub or tree was planted in the wrong spot in your landscape what do you do?

Planting Bare-root Tree Seedlings in Spring

Penn State Extension, 2020

Bare-root seedlings are commonly used for large tree planting projects. They should be planted in early spring when seedlings are dormant. This article, and included video, will explain how to properly care for and plant bare-root tree seedlings.

Maintaining Forest Property Lines

Penn State Extension, 2020

Property line maintenance is one of the most important aspects of land ownership. Well-marked boundaries can help ensure your assets are protected. This article and associated video will teach you how to maintain and mark your property lines.

Forest Landowners Guide to Tree Planting Success

Penn State Extension, 2014

This article focuses on the values and methods of establishing wooded areas on rural property.

Working with the Media: A Guide for Volunteer Organizations and Commissions

Penn State Extension, 2017

This publication provides information about public relations, rules for working with the media, and communications tools, as well as sample letters to the editor, op-ed pieces and news releases.

Hedgerows for Wildlife and Naturalized Adventure

Penn State Extension, 2021

A diverse array of plants in hedgerows provide important habitat for a variety of birds and small mammals.

Annual Budgets for Community Tree Programs

Penn State Extension, 2016

This article explains the essentials of budgeting for the costs of a community tree program each year. It includes a community tree budget worksheet.

Annual Work Plans for Tree Commissions

Penn State Extension, 2016

Annual Work Plans for Tree CommissionsDevelop an annual work plan for a municipal tree commission to ensure public trees receive the regular care they need to remain attractive, healthy, and safe.

Selecting Community Trees in a Changing Climate

Penn State Extension, 2020

Choosing resilient and adaptable trees for your community can ensure a healthier and fuller tree canopy for the long term.

Spring is Tree Planting Season

Penn State Extension, 2021

Proper planting and aftercare techniques will ensure the success of new trees.

Conducting a Community Tree Inventory

Penn State Extension, 2015

Street and park tree inventories provide information for the planning, design, planting, maintenance, and removal of community trees.

Mulching Landscape Trees

Penn State Extension, 2018

Mulches are materials placed over the soil surface to enhance landscape beauty, improve soil conditions, protect plants from foot traffic and lawn equipment, and suppress weeds.

Community Tree Plans: A Guide for Tree Commissions and Advisory Councils

Penn State Extension, 2007

"This article explains planning hierarchies and putting tree planning into practice, including effective administration