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

SAMPLE - Flooding Response Plan

City of Greenville, SC - 2021

Sample plan to adapt for flooding response

SAMPLE - Maintenacne Management Operations Manual

City of Greenville, SC - 2021

Sample park operations manual including SOPs and Levels of Care

SAMPLE - Park Maintenance Monthly Checklist

City of Greenville, SC - 2021

Sample checklist for operational tasks broken down monthly

SAMPLE - Maintenance Standards for Community Splash Pad

City of Greenville, SC - 2023

Sample maintenance schedule for a splash pad amenity

SAMPLE - Downtown Maintenance Schedule

City of Greenville, SC - 2021

Sample monthly maintenance tasks for a municipal tourism district area

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.

Product Mgmt. Part 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.