SAFE Approach to Maintenance, Construction and Renovation Extension specialists and agents have been providing advice for more than 30 years on proper maintenance, construction and renovation of sports fields. Determine the best mowing height and frequency for each field based on type of sports field, turfgrass species and available mowing equipment. Develop a customized irrigation program tailored to your particular field based on water needs and irrigation system performance. Develop an aerification program for each field to promote proper turfgrass growth and development, using equipment that measures hardness of soil. Encourage proper water use to assure continued high quality water and availability.
Water management is a critical part of the best management practices for sports fields.
In addition to maintenance issues, Extension agents and specialists can assist schools and cities with information on any required renovation of their sports fields, including advice on such things as drainage, irrigation equipment repairs or selection of turfgrass varieties. Assistance is also available in the areas of construction and field safety because improperly constructed fields are difficult to maintain and can be unsafe for players. With proper construction and particularly with proper maintenance, it is possible to reduce the number of injuries that occur on most sports fields. To ask questions or get involved in the SAFE program, contact your local county Extension agent and set up a visit.