Photo Credit: Courtesy Of Greg Parker
I remember the first time somebody suggested that I consider putting an irrigation system into a synthetic-turf field. It was one of those “Say what?” moments.
The department was in the middle of evaluating whether to use natural turf or synthetic turf on a couple of new recreational soccer fields, exercising due diligence in doing the cost-benefit analysis. Items such as player safety, rubber in-fill, markings, and a myriad of other elements to consider in the emerging synthetic industry were being scrutinized.
Then someone—I think my facilities manager—told me the department would have to decide whether or not to put in an irrigation system. I looked at him like he was from Mars and said, “Why would we need irrigation on a synthetic field? I thought we were trying to reduce our water use!”