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.
Pruning Herbaceous Plants
PennState Extension
A certain amount of maintenance is needed to keep a landscape looking its best. This minimal effort may mean the difference between landscaping that is mediocre and one that evokes many compliments.
Pruning Flowering Shrubs
PennState Extension
The correct time to prune your flowering shrubs depends on when they flower. Learn more about tips and tricks to maintain a colorful landscape.
Pruning Shrubs and Trees
PennState Extension
Here are some tips to follow when pruning specific plants, the best tools to use and some basic techniques.
Pruning for Utility Line Clearance
PennState Extension
This article explains why utility companies prune trees, what directional pruning is, how a tree should look after it is directionally pruned, and other options for trees near power lines.
How and When to Prune Flowering Shrubs
PennState Extension
This article discusses when to prune popular flowering shrubs and methods of pruning.
Sample Operations Progress Report
PA Park Maintenance Institute
Template spreadsheet to help maintain staff task records and assist with budget efficiency.
Live The Parks Life: Park Maintenance Aide Recruitment
California State Parks
Sample staff recruitment video for entry-level park operations position
Park Maintenance Viewpoints
MontanaFWP
A maintenance supervisory view of the challenges to maintain State Parks with diminishing resources.
A Day in the Life of a Kent State Groundskeeper
KentState TV
Maintaining a university campus takes a lot of hard work. This video follows Kent State Grounds crew who help make it happen.
How to Identify a Fouled Spark Plug
Dennis Kirk, Inc.
This video is about How to Identify a Fouled Spark Plug by sight
Uniform Plumbing Code Certification: What Is It and Where Is It Accepted?
NSF International
There are many misconceptions about Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) certification. Specifiers and regulators in the plumbing and plastics industries are often not aware that any ANSI-accredited certification organization can test and certify a product to the requirements of the UPC.
Disinfecting Sports Fields – Natural Grass and Synthetic Turf
Sports Turf Managers Association
Research conducted by Dr. Andrew McNitt, Penn State University, investigated the presence and survival of the bacterium Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). This research may give us clues of how to approach concerns regarding COVID-19.
Low Frequency Playground Inspection Report
PlayCore
This is a quarterly / semi-annual report and designed as a sample inspection report.
High Frequency Playground Inspection Report
PlayCore
This is a high frequency report and designed as a visual assessment of the play area, play equipment, and play surfacing. Frequently used playgrounds may require a more detailed report by a staff member experienced in repair and playground inspection.
How to check for Spark Plug Fire (in any engine)
fnaguitarplayer9
Quick video on how to check for spark plug fire in any small engine or any engine for that matter!
