Cover St ory
Strategies for
Improving the Safety and Performance of Athletic Fields By Kyley Dickson, Graduate Student, University of Tennessee
The
characteristics of a good athletic field include adequate traction, surface hardness and turfgrass cover, while also being consistent and safe. Field managers strive to provide optimal athletic fields for athletes; however, some issues still must be battled due to the nature of sporting events. 16
Soil compaction One of the most common problems on athletic fields is that traffic events (games and practices) lead to soil compaction. As compaction increases over time, it creates problems. Some of the negative effects of soil compaction are increased soil bulk density,
TENNESSEE TURFGRASS August/September 2017 Email TTA at: info@ttaonline.org
decreased water-infiltration rates and decreased air-filled space. As compaction increases and turf cover is reduced, the potential for athlete injury rises. Due to the negative impacts of compaction on soils, cultural practices are often needed to alleviate this problem. Traditionally, core cultivation is utilized to reduce soil compaction.