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.
Swimming Pool and Spa Water Chemistry
Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, 2024
Basic guide to pool and spa water chemistry. It will give you a general outline of the issues that shape routine care.
Pool Chemistry Fact Sheet
Unknown
Basic pool chemistry essentials for pool operation
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.
Maintenance Task Analysis for Parks and Recreation
Kevin Gruzewki, Productive Parks
Maintenance Task analysis is a best practice incorporating preventive maintenance and corrective actions to make maintaining grounds, equipment, and facilities more efficient. A step-by-step guide is included.
Curbing the Growing Rodent Threat
Darren Von Steenwyk, BCE
Fall and winter are prime times for rodents to seek warmer shelters. Rodents can put people, property and food at risk. Learn about their habits and how to prevent your facility from becoming a “hot spot.”
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.
Mosquitoes
Steven b. Jacobs, Extension Associate
It's not too early to think about mosquitoes and other biting insects. Penn State Extension has several good resources concerning mosquitoes and how to manage their populations. With an increase in the spread of West Nile Virus across the state, it is good practice to eliminate breeding opportunities. Read about the mosquito lifecycle and how you can help here.
Product Management Pt. 3: Safety & Compliance for Pesticide Applicators & Your Business
Kathy Glassy, Inspire Green Inc.
In the 3rd installment of this 7-part series, the author stresses the importance of providing your staff with the necessary training and PPE to perform the job and avoid the pitfalls of pesticide use. She also highlights what your agency or business needs to do to comply with laws and regulations applicable to applications and record keeping.
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.
Observational Forensics of Sick Shade Trees
W. Jim Cortese
Trees do not usually die in a day. Learn how to identify potential trouble early and treat the tree before it enters the severe decline stage, where its fate is sealed. Several easily observable signs of tree trouble are discussed.
Be prepared for Extreme Heat
FEMA
With summer coming, learn the facts about extreme heat and how to keep yourself and your staff safe during these periods.
