Frequently Asked Questions
Why do we need artificial turf fields? Aren't there enough fields in Westford?
Westford is lucky to have plenty of well-maintained fields, however, with the weather conditions and growing population of children, the fields are in constant need of repair. The soccer pitches at Jack Walsh Field at Parker Village need rest because of over-use and damage to the drainage. Westford Lacrosse has to beg, steal, and borrow to use fields and yet it is the fastest-growing sport in the town.
These 3 fields will directly impact over 3,590 participants. Westford Youth Soccer Association has 2,300 players; there are 200 adult soccer players; 240 youth football players; 260 flag football players; 350 lacrosse players; 140 doing cheering ; and other organizations need these fields too. Westford Academy has 420 athletes (field hockey 45, football 135, lacrosse 120, and soccer 120). Turf fields can be used earlier in the year than grass thus allowing our teams to compete with other towns whose sports teams have these facilities. The field at WA can also be used for graduations and other events.
I read something about lead paint in turf fields.
hi marty
This may be an issue with some older turf fields, but not the newer ones. Please visit Penn State's cropsoil page for more information about health and artificial turf.
Additionally, Andrew McNitt, PH.D Penn State and Professor of Soil Science is conducting a study regarding microbial populations and infilled synthetic turf fields. His study is entitled "Evaluation of Playing Surface Characteristics of Various In-Filled Systems".
The CPSC (Consumer Product Saftey Commission) has also reported that artificial turf is safe despite traces of lead. CPSC's lead statement can be found on their website and a follow up article concerning the statement is available from The Daily Green entitled, "Government: Lead not a Problem in Artifical Turf".
Also, see the Wall Street Journal's article on Lead and Turf Fields from July 31, 2008.
What about maintenance? How much more does it cost to maintain Turf fields than grass and what is the pay-off period between when artificial turf fields pay for themselves compared to the cost of maintaining and fertilizing grass?
The Parks & Recreation Department estimate that although the cost to construct an artificial turf field is higher than a natural field, the difference is recovered in less than 10 years because of the significant savings associated with maintaining artificial turf fields.