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These are not the same synthetic turf fields many of you might have played on in your youth, which were usually some basic synthetic grass laid on top of concrete. These are highly engineered systems, with multiple layers of fill (therefore the in-fill) that offer both greater cushion (in many cases better than grass) and drainage.
Here are other reasons why we are planning on using an in-fill system for this project:
- In-fill systems are better for the environment. The water from the drainage of the Fieldturf fields at Perrigo Park in Redmond is so clean that it is used to recharge the wetlands and Level II Salmon stream next to the fields. Because of fertilizers and pesticides, a natural grass field could never do this.
- Natural grass is not natural to the Northwest. The grasses used on athletic fields are not native to the Northwest and therefore need fertilizers to stay healthy.
- A well-drained grass field gives 150 uses per year before it breaks down. An in-fill system has unlimited use.
- Studies have shown that in-fill systems are as safe as grass. A pristine grass field is softer than an in-fill surface, but a compacted grass field is harder. All but two of the playing fields on Bainbridge Island are compacted.
- An in-fill system can be played on in winter and summer. Because grass goes dormant in the winter, it should not be played on at that time. For the last two years, Park and School fields in Northern Kitsap County have been closed from December 3rd through mid-March.
- Given its year-round playing capability, 2 in-fill fields will provide the same scheduled play time as 6 regular grass fields.
More info from our FAQ:
How will an in-fill system impact the environment?
Information from two popular vendors of in-fill systems:
