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GoGreenParkRidge
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Pesticides and Playing Fields

Myth 1: Organic turf management puts fields “at risk” 
Opponents, or uninformed turf managers, claim that organic management will put the fields 
at risk for disease and weed infestation, however, in a Cornell University study of turf, 
chemically maintained turf is more susceptible to disease. The reason was found to be very 
low organic matter content and depleted soil microorganisms. 

Myth 2: Organic athletic fields are not “safe” and cause more injuries 
This myth often preserves dandelions and tufts of plants that children may trip on. But organic 
practices can ensure control of unwanted plants in the turf. Moreover, these injury claims are 
not substantiated. The safety of a field is not dependent on whether there is an organic versus 
chemical-based maintenance program, any turf that has an irregular surface can lead to falls or 
twisted ankles. In fact, chemical turf is generally hard and compacted because there is not 
much soil biology (life in the soil). Organic management focuses on cultural practices, such as 
aeration, that alleviates compaction and provides a softer, better playing surface. 

Myth 3: Organic fields always have clover problems
Excess clover is an indicator of the soil condition. Clover is found in fields with low nitrogen 
levels, compaction issues, and drought stress. It is an issue in large patches because it can be 
slippery when wet. However, clover is a beneficial plant that “fixes,” or transforms, free 
nitrogen from the atmosphere into the turfgrass. Clover roots are extensive and provide 
significant resources to soil organisms, and it is extremely drought resistant, staying green 
long after turf goes dormant. 

Myth 4: Organic turf management is prohibitively expensive 
This is another unsubstantiated, anecdotal statement by many naysayers, but when asked for 
hard and fast budget numbers to prove these claims, they aren’t available. Most municipalities 
do not have accurate figures on the costs of their chemical programs. The question really is -
What is the cost of NOT going organic? What is the cost of exposing developing children to 
known cancer causing, endocrine disrupting, and asthma triggering chemicals where they 
play for long hours? 

Myth 5: Organic fields need to be rested 
Once again, this is not a chemical versus organically-managed field issue. All fields ideally 
should be rested for recuperative growth. Athletic activity naturally tears up turf from the soil, 
especially football, leaving open areas for opportunistic weeds to grow. Prepping the area and 
spreading a repair mixture of compost and seed that quickly establishes as soon as possible 
will fill in the area and negate the need for herbicides down the road. 


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  • About us
    • Mission, Members, and More
    • Green Partners
    • Join us!
  • Around Town
    • Virtual Solar Tour
    • Cleanup Events
    • Green Drinks
  • Sustainable Yards
    • Natural Lawn Care
    • Sustainable Gardens
    • Natural Weed & Bug Killers
    • Rain Barrels
  • Responsible Refuse
    • Recycling Resources
    • Residential Composting
  • Changemakers
    • Recent Changemakers
    • Nomination form
  • Blog