APPA Webinar – Designing & Constructing Natural Grass Athletic Fields

While synthetic turf fields are becoming more commonplace, natural turf is still the dominant surface choice for new athletic facility construction. Facility managers must carefully weigh several factors before embarking on a natural grass athletic project.

Ensuring proper surface grading and installation of subsurface drainage systems are critical for stormwater management. Selecting the ideal growing medium for the turfgrass rootzone plays a vital role in field health, with options ranging from native soil (modified or unmodified) to a sand-based rootzone. The soil’s texture determines drainage capabilities, water retention, and nutrient-holding capacity. A well-planned irrigation system is essential for the field’s durability and longevity. The choice of irrigation types and design should align with factors such as water source, pressure, the number of fields or area, geographical region, and the type of turfgrass being cultivated. Selecting the most suitable turfgrass species, characterized by disease resistance and wear tolerance, is another pivotal consideration.

This presentation will comprehensively outline the guidelines necessary for the design, construction, or renovation of natural grass fields, and discuss the maintenance and budget requirements per the intended level of use. The presentation will also include relevant case studies.

Register here.