LETTER: Turf vs. grass questioned

To the editor:

As a faculty member and specialist in turfgrass science, I felt compelled to write regarding the proposed Aggie Legacy Fields and issues that you might consider as you prepare to vote on their installation. The fact is that synthetic turf fields have not been in regular use for very long.  As a result, there is the need for objective, peer-reviewed research information regarding these fields — pros and cons. The information that I am presenting to you here is objective and peer-reviewed, but additional research is certainly needed.  

The complete life-cycle costs of synthetic turf fields, including installation, maintenance and disposal — they need replacing every 8-10 years — are higher than natural grass fields. In addition, the removal and disposal costs of synthetic turf fields are incurred at the same time as installation costs for their replacement. It is my understanding that the Aggie Legacy Fields have the potential to be recycled and I commend the planners for that, but this does not negate the cost of their future removal and replacement.  

Across the country, human health concerns have also been raised about the presence of heavy metals in the crumb rubber infill used in synthetic turfs: Al, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mg, Mn, Mb, Sn, Su and Zn. Other health concerns include the inhalation of fine particles generated as the infill wears over time, the presence of Staph bacteria and other skin and lung concerns.  

Regarding Staph bacteria, the proposed Aggie Legacy Fields would benefit from full sun exposure and its disinfectant properties. However, that very sun exposure leads to another health concern– the surface temperature of the fields. Reliable studies have measured temperatures ranging from 140-173 degrees F at the surface of synthetic turf fields, necessitating very sophisticated irrigation and drainage systems to render them cool enough for use.

Environmental considerations of synthetic turf fields include the leaching of metals such as Zn, Al, Mg and Fe, with Zn leaching in the highest quantities. These metals are toxic to aquatic organisms and invertebrates, and have also been found in the run-off from synthetic turf fields.

I do not dispute that synthetic turf fields have a place in locations that are truly adverse to natural grass. However, the presence of natural grass on the HPER fields over the past many years indicates that conditions on the fields are not truly adverse to natural grass.

Kelly Kopp