HomeMy WebLinkAbout04/12/2024 - Artificial Turf Study Committee Final Committee Report - Town of Arlington Town of Arlington
730 Massachusetts Avenue
Arlington, MA 02476
Artificial Turf Study Committee
Final Committee Report
April 12, 2024
Respectfully submitted by:
James DiTullio, Select Board appointee, Committee Chair
Natasha Waden, HHS designee, Committee Clerk
Mike Gildesgame, Conservation Committee appointee
Joseph Barr, Capital Planning Committee appointee
Jill Krajewski, Envision Arlington Committee appointee
Marvin Lewiton, Town Moderator appointee
Leslie Mayer, Park & Rec Commission appointee
Joe Connelly, Recreation Director (non-voting)
David Morgan, Conservation Agent (non-voting)
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Table of Contents
Introduction,.0 0000*00*00000*00 0 0 00 00*00000*00*00*0 0 e o e o 0000*oo*oo*oo*000 o o e oo*00000*oo*oo*o o e o3
Scopeof Work................................................................................................3
Access to Youth Sports and its Impact on Mental and Physical Health.. 9 e*9 a o 9 9 a 9 a a 9 a a 9 oo*4
Heat Impacts on Human Health and Heat Related Injuries,.so so 9 9 so 000000000000eso 000*5
Heat Impacts on the Environment........................................................................9
Skin/Bacteria,. 000*000000900*0*00009
InjuryRates..................................................................................................10
Chemical Impacts on Human Health...................................................................12
AlternativeInfills...........................................................................................17
Chemical& Particulate Runoff Impacts on the Environment....................................17
StormwaterManagement Impacts......................................................................20
Climate Change Resilience Impacts and Ecological Effects.. 9 9 e 9 o 9 9 o 9 9 o e o s 9 s s e 9 9 e 9 e 9 e o 9 9 o 9 9 s 9 s e2l
Cost Comparison of Artificial Turf Fields to Natural Grass Fields.. 9 9*9 s*9 9 e e 9 e 9 9**9*e*o 9 9 o 9 922
Importance of Field Maintenance.............9 9 so so 9 9 o90000*99609*990025
Findings and Recommendations.........................................................................25
References....................................................................................................28
Appendices...................................................................................................32
Appendix 1: Map of Recreational Facilities and Wetlands Jurisdiction, 9 9 e e*9 9 e*9 o 9 s*33
Appendix 2: Maintenance Frequency- Synthetic Surface and Natural Turf.. a s*9 s e a a*s a oo34
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Introduction
Arlington has long been a draw for young families seeking to raise their children in a vibrant
community convenient to Boston. The most recent United States Census data pegs Arlington's
18-and-under population at more than 1 in 5. Communities with large numbers of young people
require the open spaces and playing fields that those young people want and need. In recent
years, Arlington's supply of playing fields has struggled to keep up with the rising demand.
Even when Arlington's fields have met that demand, it has not been without criticism. In
particular, it is widely accepted that many of Arlington's playing fields are worn and tired,
suffering from both overuse and weather limitations. The demand for Arlington's fields has
moved in parallel with the deterioration of those fields.
Amidst this predicament, town residents have searched for solutions whereby the supply of
quality playing fields could match the intense demand. It is within this context that the topic of
artificial turf playing fields (also known as synthetic turf playing fields) has emerged. For those
town residents seeking a way to maximize each playing field to meet the demand for those fields
(particularly from youth sports leagues), artificial turf fields would appear to offer an attractive
alternative. Artificial turf proponents argue that these fields are able to withstand New England
weather while being versatile enough to maximize field playing time without sacrificing the
quality of playing conditions.
Despite the benefits cited by proponents, others have raised concerns about the hazards of
materials used to make artificial turf, the costs associated with installing and periodically
replacing artificial turf fields, and the adverse health effects experienced by those who play on
and use artificial turf fields. Opponents argue that the vaunted benefits of this playing surface
cannot overcome its notable and distinct limitations.
Into this debate the Arlington Artificial Turf Study Committee (ATSC) entered in December
2023. Created by passage of Amended Article 12 at the 2023 Annual Town Meeting, the ATSC
was charged with reviewing and reporting on "artificial turf: its health, safety, and environmental
impacts, and potential mitigation measures, and a comparison of artificial turf to natural turf
fields." Consisting of seven voting members and two non-voting members -- all of whom
represent parts of town government with concerns about and interests in Arlington's playing
fields -- the ATSC sought to provide information to town leaders and residents who see great
potential in the use of artificial turf but have legitimate concerns about its health, safety, and
environmental impacts. With an overarching commitment to take the proverbial "deep dive" into
the subject matter, the ATSC has meticulously and diligently studied artificial turf without fear
or favor, letting science and data dictate its questions and its studies.
This report is the product of those efforts.
Scope of Work
The ATSC was charged with examining health, safety, and environmental impacts related to the
use of both artificial and natural grass turf fields, as well as potential mitigation measures.
Consistent with that charge, the Committee focused its research and discussions on several
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specific areas related to turf fields: access to youth sports and its impact on mental and physical
health; heat impacts on human health and heat related injuries; heat impacts on the environment;
skin/bacteria issues; injury rates; chemical impacts on human health and the environment;
alternative infills; chemical and particulate runoff impacts; stormwater management impacts;
climate change resilience impacts and ecological effects; and a cost comparison of artificial turf
fields to natural grass fields.
Access to Youth Sports and its Impact on Mental and Physical Health
Research shows that exercise and team sports, in particular, improve the overall health of young
people. According to the Science Board that works in the President's Council on Youth Fitness
and Nutrition, participation in sports impacts many aspects of health. Equitable access to youth
programs both promotes exercise and allows children to develop the social interactions that
occur as part of a team. Exercise is linked to a reduced risk of many diseases including Type 2
diabetes, obesity, cancer, depression, and anxiety. When the national youth sports survey looked
at who is not participating in sports, they found that Black, Indigenous, and People of Color
(BIPOC) and low-income households were particularly impacted by access to sports. Lack of
access to playing spaces is a key contributor to the problem. It is important to mention that
Arlington's outdoor recreation spaces and youth sports programs are accessible to families that
cannot afford private sports clubs. However, a lack of field space can impact both enrollment
and access to practice and playing times. 1 2
New England weather complicates the lack of field space created by the high number of children
enrolled in sports programs. The wet weather conditions limit access to grass fields during the
busy season, March 15 - June 15 and August 15 - November 15. According to Arlington's
Department of Recreation, there are many field closures for rain and resting periods after rain
that require rescheduling of games and practice. Often, games can get played (or, on occasion,
Arlington can move to an away site to make up a game), but there is little chance to make up
practice. Artificial turf fields do not have to be closed for rain and they allow for continuous
play and field use. Artificial turf can be used earlier and later in the season and potentially in
winter months. According to Ian Lacy from Tom Irwin Advisors, an expert on both natural grass
and artificial turf fields3, artificial turf fields can be used 1.3x-1.5x more than natural grass
fields. However, this assumes a natural turf field is appropriately rested. In our current situation,
Arlington does not appropriately rest its fields. So while conversion from natural grass to
artificial turf may increase the days where practices and games can be held, it will not
significantly increase the number of playing fields in the community.
It is important that Arlington youth can participate in youth sports and have access to playing
surfaces that promote continuous play when adverse weather restricts play on natural grass
fields. As such, Arlington should consider increasing playing spaces to ensure equitable access
1 https://health.gov/our-work/nutrition-physical-activity/national-youth-sports-strategy/questions-answers#g4
2 https://health.gov/sites/default/files/2020-09/YSS_ScienceBoardReport 2020.09.01_opt.pdf
3 https://www.tomirwinadvisors.com/about-us/mission/
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to team sports for all its young residents.4 In addition, Arlington should consider some strategies
for increasing the usability for existing fields. Some strategies may include:
• Linear sand injection systems. According to turf expert Ian Lacy of Tom Irwin
Advisors, the installation of a linear sand injection system on a natural grass turf field is a
mitigation strategy that may help to address flooding/moisture conditions and may be
relatively inexpensive to install on existing fields.
• Understanding the impact weather has on access to Arlington's existing playing
fields. To better understand how inclement weather affects Arlington's playing fields it
would be beneficial to collect actual data as to when grass and artificial turf fields are
closed due to weather conditions (rain, heat, etc.). Ideally, this data would be collected
annually and could be used to compare one year to another.
An additional strategy is site specific installation of artificial turf, which holds the possibility of
increasing access to youth sports programs in Arlington and usability of playing spaces for those
programs. Although such a strategy may be beneficial to the overall health of Arlington's youth,
there are notable downsides to artificial turf, which will be discussed in this report.
Heat Impacts on Human Health and Heat Related Injuries
The impact of heat on human sporting activities may become an increasingly important issue as
we continue to see the warming effects of climate change. While some research casts doubt on
an automatic relationship between air temperature and surface temperature, there is clearly cause
for concern related to the heat effects of artificial turf fields on their users. Exposure to high heat
levels, on all types of playing surfaces (including natural grass); can have a cumulative effect on
the human body. Children in particular are more vulnerable to high temperatures than adults,
and they are not as adaptable to changes in temperature as adults are. Additionally, children are
less likely to accurately assess the degree of heat strain to which they are exposed, and therefore
their desire to participate and compete may lead them to stay on the field despite a level of
discomfort that might lead an adult to rest instead.6 For these reasons, it is important to look at
how heat may affect a field user on both artificial turf and natural grass fields and determine
what mitigation measures may be necessary during periods of high heat temperatures.
4 Accessibility is a concern for the community,and a main concern of the Massachusetts Architectural Access Board
is"the ability of children with disabilities and parent and friends,to do the same things as abled bodied people do."
See https://www.mass.gov/doc/aab-minutes-41218. Within Arlington's public recreation programs and facilities,
there is support for diversity,equity,and inclusion, and the Town has undergone a self-evaluation process to help
guide its improvement efforts toward those objectives.
See https://www.arlin tonma.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/40400/63647996277210000O.
To be considered an accessible surface,ground surfaces need to be"stable,firm, slip resistant, and maintained with
materials that ensure continued slip resistance." See https://www.mass.gov/doc/521-cmr-2900-floor-surfaces-2006-
pdf/download.
Grass,like some other ground surfaces,may be problematic in that regard.
5 Sand injection is fundamentally similar to regular aeration,with the key difference being that sand injection uses a
pressurized water system to inject the aeration holes with compact sand in real time,as the holes are being punched.
6 https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/heat-waves-affect-children-more-severely/
5
Numerous studies have documented extremely high surface temperatures on artificial turf, and
while there has been limited research on the temperature of the air above the field, data indicates
that players on artificial turf fields have higher skin temperatures, indicating greater heat load,
and perceive a greater degree of heat stress than when on natural grass fields. Most reputable
studies or analyses show that artificial turf fields with crumb rubber infill can get considerably
hotter than natural grass on hot, sunny days. While natural grass fields rarely get above 100' F
due to the release and evaporation of water vapor that leads to cooling, artificial turf fields, in
comparison, regularly rise above 100' F.7 Penn State University's Center for Sports Surface
Research conducted studies comparing surface temperatures of synthetic turfs composed of
various fiber and infill colors/materials and found that the maximum surface temperatures during
hot, sunny conditions averaged from 140' F to 170' F.8 Another study conducted at Brigham
Young University found that the surface temperature of the synthetic turf was 37' F higher than
asphalt and 86.5° F hotter than natural turf.9 This is a concern for many reasons, including, as
neuroscientist Kathleen Michels points out: "Any temperature over 120' F can cause skin burns
with skin contact in two seconds."10 In addition, research on heat stress in college athletes has
shown that a significant heat exposure on one day can result in additional physiological stress
days later. 11 12 However, it should be noted that the most extreme heat issues related to artificial
turf fields have usually been documented in regions of the country where air temperatures are
regularly above 80°, not New England. 13
When examining heat issues related to turf, measuring surface temperatures of natural and
artificial turf fields may not be the best assessment of how the playing surface feels to the user.
A more common quantification is Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT), which measures the
"expected heat stress on the human body when in direct sunlight."14 WBGT is utilized by the
military, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, and the American College of
Sports Medicine, and it is often viewed as the "gold standard" for measuring heat stress during
hot weather and for creating heat-related safety standards.15 16 Arlington High School Athletics
Department staff use WBGT when taking temperature readings on both artificial turf and natural
grass fields. When doing so, they have found the playing environment to be between seven and
ten degrees hotter on synthetic fields than on natural grass fields. 17
Heat-related concerns over artificial turf fields in New England would be most acute in the
hottest months of the year, namely June, July, and August (also known as meteorological
7 https://www.nrpa.org/parks-recreation-magazine/2019/may/synthetic-sports-fields-and-the-heat-island-effect/
s Ibid.
9 Ibid.
10 Ibid.
1 lhttps://plantscience.psu.edu/research/centers/ssrc/documents/temperature.pdf
12 https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/heat-waves-affect-children-more-severer
13 https:Hftw.usatoday.com/2015/08/its-so-hot-in-texas-turf-is-meltin -cleats
14 National Weather Service. "Wet Bulb Globe Temperature:How and when to use it."
https://www.weather.gov/news/211009-WBGT
15 National Weather Service. "Wet Bulb Globe Temperature Informational Guide."
https://www.weather.gov/media/safety/heat/2020-WBGT-Hando
16 Cates J,Rheeling,J. "Wet Bulb Globe Temperature(WBGT)—Why Should Your School Be Using It?"National
Federation of State High School Associations.Apr 2023.https://www.nfhs.org/articles/wet-bulb-globe-temperature-
wbgt-why-should-your-school-be-using-it/
17 Presentation by Arlington High School Athletic Trainer Samantha Jones 2/13/24
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summer). Fortunately for the Town of Arlington, there are few organized athletic uses of
Arlington fields during that time period, meaning far less concern with heat stress or heat
exhaustion on athletes. Arlington's town and school athletic fields receive their greatest use in
the "shoulder seasons" of spring (April-May) and fall (September-November), where
temperatures in Arlington do not regularly cross the 80' F mark. Climate change is raising
temperatures, there will be more hot days even in the shoulder seasons, and surface temperatures
on artificial turf fields in Arlington could reach very high levels even on more temperate days.
There is a greater possibility that heat will be a concern in the future and therefore it must be
addressed. But, unlike some other issues related to artificial turf fields, the heat-related concerns
are very capable of being mitigated, especially in a community like Arlington that is in the New
England climate.
One mitigation strategy used by some artificial turf field owners is to water the fields to keep
them cool on hot days. Such a strategy is not recommended. Watering artificial turf fields is
effective only for a short period of time, and temperatures usually rebound after only about 20
minutes. Moreover, adding irrigation to this type of sports field is costly and, depending on the
type of infill used, could be ineffective, as water could simply roll off the surface and not really
soak in to provide that small window of temperature relief.
There are, however, several mitigation strategies that could improve heat safety for field users
and can be deployed either singularly or in combination with other strategies.
• Using alternative infill materials on synthetic turf fields. Alternative infill materials
(sand, coated sand, cork, Brockfill, etc.) have been suggested as replacements to crumb
rubber that are not only less toxic but may also result in cooler field surface
temperatures.18 However, none of these alternative infills can provide a surface that is
comparable in temperature to natural grass, and they may have other limitations, such as
increased migration from the field or the need for more frequent maintenance and/or
replacement. Information from the Penn State Sports Surface Research Center suggests
that significant temperature reductions may not be possible with infill changes alone. 19
• Installation of signage on playing fields. Often signage around fields includes warnings
about damage to the turf field, but additional signage or an alteration to existing signage
should alert users to the health risks associated with field use on very hot, sunny days.
• Formalized education and training about heat safety for youth sports coaches.
Annual training on recognizing heat strain is provided to coaching staff as part of
Arlington High School's Athletics Department's Emergency Action Plan. Additionally, a
five-day acclimatization program has been implemented for football players whose
exposure tends to be greater due to their use of pads and uniforms, in accordance with
Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) guidelines.20 However, for
non-high school sports organizations, it is unclear what type of training, if any, is
18 Presentation by Ian Lacy,Lead Project Advisor,Tom Irwin Advisors on 2/20/24.
https://www.arlin tonma.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/68878/63844281099273000O
19 https://read.dmtmag.com/i/32290-June-2011/19?
20 Presentation by Arlington High School Athletic Trainer Samantha Jones 2/13/24.
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provided or required for volunteer coaches/parents in regard to recognizing and
responding to heat strain events. Aside from high school events, it is unclear that there is
consistent monitoring of field temperatures in the Town of Arlington.
• Installation of shade cover at all playing fields. During the design of field renovations,
consideration should be given to the installation of shade structures that can protect the
user from direct sunlight during resting periods. Such structures may include dugout
covers and shaded sideline seating. This should be considered regardless of field type, as
hot temperatures outside the summer season are becoming increasingly common.
• Monitoring air and surface temperatures. The Arlington High School Athletics
Department currently monitors field temperatures (WBGT) during the hottest part of the
year and has guidelines for when field use is safe. Practices and tryouts are scheduled for
cooler parts of the day whenever possible. However, it is unclear whether there is
consistent monitoring of field temperatures outside of high school athletics. As such, it
would seem appropriate to establish an air and surface temperature monitoring program
for synthetic turf fields during the hottest part of the year. Such a policy is not unheard of
and, in some circumstances, is quite common. For example, local beach administrators
(like the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation and the Arlington
Board of Health) regularly monitor local beaches for elevated bacteria levels in the water;
if the bacteria levels go above a certain level on a certain day, the authorities close the
beach for that day. The MIAA has established guidelines for the use of athletic fields of
any kind during hot temperatures, with the guidelines stating that there should be no use
of fields when the wet-bulb temperature goes above 86.1° F. In the same way, it seems
both logical and prudent for local officials (like the Department of Park and Recreation or
School Department) to monitor air and surface temperatures at artificial turf fields (as
well as other fields) in Arlington, especially during June-August; if surface temperatures
go above a certain established level, then those fields would be closed to use for that day
— much like natural grass fields are closed when rain or snow conditions prevent their
use.
As an example, the Montgomery County Public Schools in Maryland has developed the
following guidelines for use of its artificial turf fields:
• Anytime the outdoor temperature exceeds 80 degrees, coaches exercise caution in
conducting activities on artificial turf fields.
• When outdoor temperatures exceed 90 degrees, coaches may hold one regular
morning or evening practice (before noon or after 5 p.m.).
• When the heat index is between 91-104 degrees between the hours of noon and 5
p.m., school athletic activities are restricted on artificial turf fields to one hour, with
water breaks every 20 minutes. 21
21 https://www.nrpa.org/parks-recreation-magazine/2019/may/synthetic-sports-fields-and-the-heat-island-effect/
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Heat Impacts on the Environment
It has been established that artificial turf fields are hotter than natural turf fields. 22 But the excess
heat generated by artificial turf fields has impacts on the environment beyond those on the
human body.
The surfaces of artificial turf fields have been shown to be significantly hotter than natural turf
fields, contributing to the urban heat island effect.23 It is expected that climate change will add
13 to 23 days where temperatures exceed 90' F, an increase from the current 8 days per year in
Arlington.24 Artificial turf fields could exacerbate already increasing temperatures in Arlington,
particularly in areas identified as heat islands.
The Metropolitan Area Planning Council performed a heat analysis to ascertain the areas of
Arlington that are most at risk of extreme heat. 25 The hottest 5% of areas, or "hot spots,"
generally follow the Massachusetts Avenue corridor, which is the most densely developed part of
Arlington with the greatest amount of impervious surfaces. There are also "hot spots" in parts of
East Arlington, in a relatively dense residential area north and west of Massachusetts Avenue. It
seems advisable, to the extent practicable, to avoid installing artificial turf fields in or near the
existing hottest 5% areas in Arlington.
In addition to creating heat islands, extreme heat can inhibit wildlife movement and disrupt
ecosystems. Higher surface heat temperatures on artificial turf could inhibit any wildlife
movement across those fields during the hottest days of the year. Furthermore, extreme surface
heat may affect the temperature of any stormwater runoff, which can also affect the ecology of
the aquatic environments that are the receiving waters of the runoff.
Skin/Bacteria
Beyond the obvious impact from extreme surface temperatures on artificial turf fields, such as
heat stroke, are other effects relating to an individual's skin.
Safe Healthy Playing Fields Inc. estimates that skin injury can result from contact with a surface
lasting just several seconds when the heat index runs from 120' — 140' F. 26 Although that is a
serious concern for users of artificial turf fields, there are obvious mitigation measures to address
them. For example, it seems unlikely that someone using an artificial turf field is directly
exposing their bare feet or skin to the surface for extended periods of time; moreover, signage
can make clear that all users of the field must wear shoes at all times. And, as discussed earlier,
there is no reason why the Town of Arlington, were it to have new artificial turf fields, could not
limit or close the fields to use on the hottest days of the year.
22 https://www.turi.org/content/download/13271/203906/file/Factsheet.Artificial_Turf.September202O.pdf.pdf
23 Ibid.
24 https://www.arlin tonma.gov/home/sho"ublisheddocument/51627/637268071185670000
25 Ibid.
26 https://www.safehealthyplayingfields.org/heat-levels-synthetic-turf
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Artificial turf fields also raise questions of bacterial infections. The Massachusetts Department
of Public Health (DPH) addressed this issue directly:
Some studies have measured the levels of bacteria on surfaces of different types of
athletic fields. Very limited research has found fewer bacteria in [artificial turf fields]
ATF than soil and the federal study reported indoor ATF having fewer bacteria than
outdoor ATF. However, many factors (e.g., presence of bacteria, moisture, and
temperature) influence the risk of bacterial infections following the use of any athletic
surface. The frequency and severity of skin abrasions can also influence the risk of
infection. California's Environmental Protection Agency reported that athletes experience
more frequent turf burns (i.e., skin abrasions) on ATF relative to natural fields. Overall,
practicing good hygiene is the best way to prevent getting and spreading infections.
Washing skin abrasions with soap and water can decrease the risk of bacterial infections.
27
As noted by DPH, the threat of bacterial infections from artificial turf is real but limited, and it
can be mitigated through good hygiene practices. For this reason, the Mount Sinai Children's
Environmental Health Center similarly recommends that those who play on artificial turf
surfaces wash their hands before eating, drinking, or adjusting mouth guards, as well as cleaning
cuts and abrasions immediately. 28
Injury Rates
A long-running critique of artificial turf playing fields holds that they have a higher incidence of
player injuries than natural grass fields. That was certainly true with the first generation of
artificial playing surface known as AstroTurf. Physicians and trainers noted that players were
injured with a greater frequency on that turf, including ACL tears, concussions29, and ankle
sprains. 30 In 1992, John Powell from the University of Iowa published a paper that showed that
professional football teams had more major knee injuries on artificial turf when compared to
professionally maintained natural grass. 31 In that era, players complained of greater muscle
soreness on artificial turf as compared to playing on a professionally maintained natural grass
surface. 32
But artificial turf has advanced considerably from its early AstroTurf days, and that includes
improvements in lowering player injuries. Artificial turf manufacturers have made
advancements in simulating more natural surfaces, particularly with the use of crumb rubber
infill mixed with sand, often giving the turf a more grass-like feel. Nevertheless, criticism of
artificial turf as it relates to player injuries remains, and it is not uncommon to hear players
27 https://www.mass.gov/info-details/artificial-turf-fields
28ht1ps://static I.squarespace.com/static/57fe875Od482e926d7l8f65a/t/593b 15421 e5b6c414467a03b/1497044293003
/CEHC+Position+Statement+on+Recycled+Rubber+Turf+Surfaces+2017-5-1 O.pdf
29https://www.hss.edu/condition-list-concussion.asp
30 https://www.hss.edu/conditions_high-ankle-sprain-whats-different.asp
31 https://www.hss.edu/conditions arti ficial-turf-sports-inj ury-prevention.asp
32 https://www.hss.edu/conditions artificial-turf-sports-injury-prevention.asp
10
vocalize their opinions about the difference between the playability of artificial turf versus
natural grass. 33
Recent studies on player injuries provide a mixed picture. While some studies still see a greater
likelihood of sports injuries with artificial turf over grass, other studies see the two playing
surfaces as equivalent with respect to injuries, and one recent study even saw an advantage to
artificial turf fields. 34
A 2023 review of research related to player injuries found that there is a higher rate of foot and
ankle injuries on artificial turf, both old-generation and new-generation, compared with natural
grass.35 That review also noted that high-quality studies suggest that the rates of knee injuries
and hip injuries are similar between playing surfaces, although elite-level football athletes may
be more predisposed to knee injuries on artificial turf compared with natural grass.36
In contrast, a 2022 study found that in a comparison of artificial turf to natural grass, injury rates
were equivalent in most cases.37 A notable exception to that finding was higher rates of foot and
ankle injuries in general, as well as higher knee injury rates among elite-level American football
athletes, on artificial turf playing surfaces.38 But the study found that concussion rates on
artificial turf are decreased compared to natural grass that is maintained by professional
groundskeeping operations.39
And, as previously noted, a 2023 study of football (soccer) players actually found the overall
incidence of football injuries to be lower on artificial turf than on grass. 40
In light of recent studies and research, it seems hard to definitively say whether modern artificial
turf playing fields inherently present more risk of player injury than natural grass fields that are
maintained to a professional standard. There could be a slightly higher risk of foot and ankle
injuries on artificial turf fields versus natural grass fields, but the difference is not dramatic. And
there is some indication that, with respect to sports injuries, artificial turf playing surfaces might
even be better than natural grass, including in the area of concussions. In the end, although there
may be many important differences between artificial turf fields and natural grass fields, player
injuries does not appear to be an area that stands out in that regard.
With the benefit of first-hand local experience on both natural grass and artificial turf with crumb
rubber infill, Arlington High School's head athletic trainer, Samantha Jones, concurred with that
assessment. She stated that she has not seen any measurable difference in the type or number of
injuries associated with playing surface, noting that more frequent injury types are attributable to
factors like differing physiology or player preparedness.
33 https://www.hss.edu/conditions artificial-turf-sports-injury-prevention.asp
34 It should be noted that these studies were focused on professional and collegiate athletics,and very little study
information is available about the casual or municipal user.
35 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35593739/
36 Ibid.
37 https://www.intechopen.com/chapters/83186
38 Ibid.
39 Ibid.
40 https://www.ncbi.nim.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10139885/
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It is also worth noting that studies of sports injuries sometimes compare artificial turf fields to
pristine, professional athletic natural grass fields. In that comparison, it is not surprising that the
artificial turf fields often have a modestly worse record on certain sports injuries. But it is rare
outside of collegiate or professional sports to find pristine, impeccably maintained natural grass
fields. In reality, most municipal grass playing fields across the United States (like those in
Arlington) are maintained to the level that is affordable for municipal budgets. Those fields are
often stressed from heat and rain, and they can be much more likely to cause sports injuries.
Mark Cote, a Mass General Brigham Sports Medicine researcher who serves as director of
Outcomes Research for Sports Medicine and Orthopedic Surgery at Massachusetts General
Hospital, summed up succinctly the state of research on these issues in 2024: "I don't think
we're at a point yet where we can say an injury would have been avoided because a field is turf
or natural grass, nor are we at a point where we should immediately switch every field in
America to natural grass."41 Recognizing that artificial turf may increase the risk of non-contact
injuries and that professional athletes often prefer natural grass playing fields, Cote stated:
"While I'd prefer my own children to play on natural grass, I know an injury can happen on any
surface without proper conditioning. At the end of the day, it's a part of the sport." 42
Chemical Impacts on Human Health
Artificial turf and its infills contain a wide variety of hazardous chemicals. What is not known at
this point is how much exposure results from playing on these surfaces. In general, reducing
exposure to hazardous materials has a positive health effect.
Exposure to hazardous materials comes in one of three ways: inhalation, ingestion, and dermal
contact. While there is almost no data on the level of exposure to these materials in the context
of artificial turf use, in general, when a product contains demonstrably toxic materials,
minimizing possible exposure to them is always going to be better than not doing so. All things
being equal, a reduction in potential exposure should lead to reduced harm to people and the
environment.
Artificial turf fields in Arlington would be used primarily by children, who eat, drink, and
breathe more per pound of body weight than do adults. As their brains and bodies are
continually developing during childhood, the effects of any hazardous exposures are more
significant than would be the case for comparable exposures in adults. For example, recent
research suggests that there is no safe level of lead exposure for children. Their behavior also
differs from that of adults, with more hand-to-mouth activity, which can act to increase potential
exposures.
In terms of duration of exposure, almost all the exposure studies to date have been done on
adults, who are less susceptible to comparable adverse exposure levels to chemicals. Many more
children participate in youth sports programs than was the case 20 years ago, and as a result will
likely have longer periods of exposure to any hazardous components in artificial turf than would
41 https://www.massyeneralbri ham.org/en/about/newsroom/articles/turf-vs-grass-fields-sports-injury-prevention
42 Ibid.
12
an adult. Exposure duration can be an important factor as diseases may have long latency
periods (the time between exposure and disease).
Chemical exposure can lead to negative health outcomes. Chemical exposures can have
cumulative impacts, defined as toxicity risk, carcinogenic risks, endocrine disruption risks, and
reproductive risks. While there is an abundance of research that clearly illustrates the toxicity of
components within artificial turf, there are few if any research studies that examine the potential
for exposure to field users, nor do data currently exist that establish the exact level at which
exposure to a particular hazardous material found in artificial turf results in disease. While one
cancer related study suggested there was no association between artificial turf field use and
cancer in athletes, there were questions raised about the methodology used in the study and
whether or not the study results were valid. 43 44 45
There are also serious concerns related to crumb rubber infill and artificial turf fields. Crumb
rubber infill, used to soften the playing surface on artificial turf fields, is made from very finely
shredded automobile and truck tires, and has been one of the ways in which old tires are
recycled. Used tires contain a wide assortment of toxic materials which have been linked to
adverse human health effects and environmental damage. The small size of these particles
makes it easier for dusts to be generated during field use, which can then be aerosolized and
inhaled, or deposited on clothing or body parts. Dermal contact with these dusts or solids can
result in an ingestion exposure if food is eaten without handwashing. In addition to potential
direct exposures, these materials are a source of"take home" exposures if they are transferred via
clothing, shoes, on skin, or in the hair to field users' automobiles or homes. As such, the
potential hazards associated with crumb rubber should be taken into consideration by Town
officials when making decisions about future projects that may involve this material.
In addition to crumb rubber infill, artificial turf fields contain other chemicals of concern and
hazardous materials, including the following:
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). PAHs are chemicals that exist naturally in
coal, oil, and gasoline. They can be formed by the burning of these materials, along with
wood, tobacco, and even food that is cooked at high heat, such as meat on a grill.
Exposures can result from breathing tiny PAH particles or particles to which PAHs are
bound, eating grilled or charred food, or food onto which PAH particles have deposited
from the air. Some PAHs can be absorbed through the skin. Exposures to PAHs have
been associated with skin, lung, bladder, liver, and gastrointestinal cancers. High rates of
cancer among firefighters are thought to be due to PAH exposures. Animal studies have
shown an association between PAH exposure and reproductive, neurologic, and
developmental effects. 46 47
43 https://kuow-prod.imgix.net/store/ee4a593cdd79b5f'99ee947785173a3O9.pdf
44 https://doh.wa.gov/community-and-environment/schools/environmental-health/synthetic-turf
45 https://www.kuow.org/stories/does-plaing-soccer-on-artificial-turf-increase-cancer-risk-especially-in-kids
46 https://doi.org/l0.1016/i.envpol.2022.119841
47 https://doi.org/l0.1016/i.envpol.2022.119841
13
Heavy metals. Metals such as lead, zinc, and chromium as well as others, are commonly
found in crumb rubber. These metals can have a range of adverse health effects,
including impairment of the nervous system, gastrointestinal and kidney issues, immune
system dysfunction, reproductive system toxicity, and cancer. Indications are that the
primary route of field users' exposure to metals would be through ingestion rather than
inhalation. 48
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl compounds (PFAS). PFAS is the umbrella term for the
thousands of fluorinated compounds, which are commonly referred to as "forever
chemicals" due to their extreme resistance to breaking down in the environment. They
have been used in any number of products, including nonstick cookware, firefighting
foam, stain-resistant upholstery, and rainwear. It has been estimated that nearly all
Americans have been exposed to PFAS through drinking water contamination, using
products made with PFAS, or breathing PFAS in the air. A number of these compounds
have been banned for use in children's toys and other consumer products, and many
manufacturers are trying to come up with safer alternatives. However, for other
consumer products, including artificial turf, compliance with the ban is totally voluntary.
New fluorinated compounds are continually being developed and used. Because there
are many opportunities for exposure, and PFAS are resistant to breaking down, they can
accumulate in our bodies. Data suggests that the amount of PFAS in our blood can be
one thousand times greater than the EPA's proposed level for drinking water. Adverse
health effects include alterations in metabolism, altered thyroid function, higher risk of
being overweight, lower fetal growth rates, and reduced effectiveness of our immune
system. 49 50 51 52 53
Phthalates are often referred to as plasticizers. They can make plastic products flexible
and longer lasting. They are used in a wide variety of products including food packaging,
medical products, personal care items, and sporting goods. The CDC states: "People are
exposed to phthalates by eating and drinking foods that have contacted products
containing phthalates. Some exposure can occur from breathing phthalate particles in the
air. Children crawl around and touch many things, and then put their hands in their
mouths. Because of that hand-to-mouth behavior, phthalate particles in dust might be a
greater risk for children than for adults. Inside a person's body, phthalates are converted
into breakdown products (metabolites) that quickly leave the body in urine. Research has
documented a wide variety of adverse health effects resulting from chronic exposure to
phthalates, including disruption of the endocrine system and abnormal functioning of
some organ systems. This can affect pregnancy outcomes, child growth and development,
and reproductive systems in both young children and adolescents. 54 55 56 57 58
48 https://www.nature.com/articles/s4l598-023-38574-z
49https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC 10718084/
50 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6348874/
51 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10423336/
52 https://factor.niehs.nih.gov/2022/10/science-highlights/pfas-liver-injury
53 https://www.healthandenvironment.org/che-webinars/96609
54 https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9032/9/5/603
55 https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/news/features/the-big 3-why-phthalates-should-be-restricted-or-banned-from-
consumer-products/
14
Microplastics: Comparable to investigations into the human health effects of PFAS and
phthalates, research on the health effects of microplastics in both aquatic species and
humans is extremely limited and in its early stages. Exposure to microplastics occurs
through inhalation, ingestion, and food consumption, and is an increasing worldwide
concern. Research indicates that ingestion of microplastics is harmful to aquatic and
animal species, resulting in inflammation, oxidative stress, and cytotoxicity among other
adverse effects. Translocation of these tiny plastic particles has been found to occur in
mice after ingestion, including passage through the blood-brain barrier. It is believed that
these may be seen in humans as well. One study showed behavioral changes in mice
following short-term microplastic exposures.59 In addition to the plastic particles
themselves, there are concerns about the toxicity of compounds that have been either
added to or are adsorbed to the surface of the base plastic, such as colorants, phthalates,
and other chemicals which are used to provide specific properties, or heavy metals, which
could result in other harmful effects.60 61 62
While the chemicals above are in the highest quantities in the crumb rubber, they also can exist
in the grass blades. While nearly all Americans currently have some level of exposure to both
PFAS and phthalates, virtually all of the papers addressing health issues around PFAS and
phthalates in artificial turf acknowledge that there is inadequate research in terms of exposure,
and that much more research is needed. For example, while there are standards for PFAS in
drinking water, there are currently no definitive levels for PFAS or phthalates at which adverse
health effects will occur, making it difficult to associate specific levels of exposure with disease.
An additional chemical that has recently been discovered in used tires is 6-PPD Quinone.
6-PPD is an antioxidant compound which is added to the rubber in automobile and truck
tires to prevent cracking and early aging and to increase their lifespan. When exposed to
ozone and oxygen it transforms into 6PPD-quinone, further discussed in the section
"Chemical and Particulate Runoff Impacts"below. 6364
The limitations of existing personal sampling equipment make collecting inhalation exposure
information during actual play or other representative field activities extremely challenging.
New methods for both sampling and analysis are continually being developed and will hopefully
be able to shed additional light on this important topic in the future. There is a long history of
chemicals being found to cause harm at levels well below that originally thought to be
56 https://doi.org/l0.1016/j.cbpc.2023.109645
57 https:Hjoumals.lww.com/co-pediatrics/abstract/2013/04000/phthalate_exposure_and_children_s_health.l6.aspx
58 https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2017-08/documents/phthalates_updates_live_file_508_O.pdf
59htips://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/24/15/12308
60 https:Hdoi.org/10.1021/envhealth.3c00052
61 https://particleandfibretoxicology.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s 12989-020-00387-7
62 https://www.ncbi.nim.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8800959/
63 https://www.epa.gov/chemical-research/6ppd-quinone
64 https:Hdoi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165240
15
problematic, and it is not unreasonable to ask whether people should voluntarily add to their
existing exposure levels when it may not be absolutely necessary.
The use of less toxic materials will
mo�t Hierarchy of Controls always be better than more toxic ones,
effective
even without exposure data, as that
................. Physjca�Hy rernove
the Nazar reduces the possibility of exposure to a
Replace toxin. This is the basis for the
/ jj� /,,// /////////////// / the hazard Occupational Safety and Health
Isollate peop�e Administration's (OSHA) hierarchy of
40-""""011",P
frorni the hazard
controls which call for (in order of
effectiveness) eliminating the
Change the way
'low, people work hazardous material entirely,
Protect fl°iie�worker with substituting safer chemicals for more
Personal Protecfive EqWpment
Least hazardous ones, implementing
engineering controls to capture
emissions or guard against mechanical
hazards, administrative controls such as work practice changes, and finally using personal
protective equipment as the final and least preferred alternative. 65
Based on the available research it seems advisable to move away from crumb rubber infill. As
to what alternative infill material is preferable, continued research will be necessary. A portion
of the Toxics Use Reduction Institute (TURI) comparison of infill materials is shown below.
01, Rriesent, Present Present !senf Below Absent in.some,
detection cases
Present P�res Pteserit Preson,t p1resen, ftesent in,,,s fnive,
casetuuuuuuuuuuuul s,
Priesent Ptesent Present, Priesent One,additional Present
metal:PreseIII
nt'
Present Present IPresent Generally Expeaiedto,be Zeohte�when
abselat ai,,bsent, P,,,,,,r,,e v,pose,,,s sent
serious resp,,Itatory,
Present' Pre,ent May be �Pr sentl E pectedto be
loweOf present,,but absent h,a zo Plan t-based
subject to RSL M'',ate"'rjal!s,fcan pose
EXpecterd to'b[V, conucerns tat toy
P,,,resenf Pmsent Expectedto Flresxent
('1ower In be pr)esennt, flower)18, aiilbsent dlust�,flungii,,or
soml,e, hut su�Jectll'to alf1jefgeas.,
cam,potjfare sa fir.
d
h1g,her In
phthialates are
othef,,s,)1
expecte(s,-toi be,
Present, Present May be Priesent Below ailbsent,VOC-s,and
(lower)f prels,ent,but 00'We'09 dej ectioln PkRs,are,expected
sub"ect to i RSL limit, to be low or absentll
Present Preswnt Present 'Presient(below,10 mog/kg)"),
,(higheSt"). (20 rng/kg) (55,m,g,,/,,Ikg, ) 66
(548 mg/kgg)
65 htlps://www.osha.gov/sites/default/files/Hierarchy of-Controls—02.01.23—form—508
16
Aside from discontinuing use of crumb rubber infill, another recommended mitigation strategy
could include pre-installation testing by an independent laboratory to ensure that the materials
are PFAS-free -- since once they are installed, it can be difficult to determine if any PFAS
present is from the field materials or from PFAS that is already in the environment.
Alternative Infills
The environmental impact of artificial turf infill, in particular tire crumb rubber, has been
identified as an issue of concern. 67 68 69 There are, however, alternative infills. According to
TURI's comparative assessment of chemical contents associated with alternative infills: 70
No infill material was clearly free of concerns, but several are likely to be somewhat safer
than tire crumb. Some alternative materials contain some of the same chemicals of
concern as those found in tire crumb; however, they may contain a smaller number of
these chemicals, and the chemicals may be present in lower quantities.
Recently, several Massachusetts towns such as Lexington, Milton, and Malden have specified
alternative infills to help mitigate chemical pollution and increased surface temperatures from the
artificial turf fields permitted. Although certain alternative infills such as Brockfill and
Greensand may hold promise for being more environmentally friendly and generating less heat
than crumb rubber infill, there is not sufficient peer-reviewed research data at this time to
definitively endorse them. Nevertheless, given the early promise of these alternative infills, as
well as the widely accepted negative data on crumb rubber infill, it seems that future artificial
turf projects should be looking exclusively at working with these alternatives. As time goes by
and more reliable data on alternative infills is available, the case for these alternatives should be
bolstered considerably.
Chemical & Particulate Runoff Impacts on the Environment
One of the most significant concerns surrounding artificial turf fields is their impact on wetland
resources and waterways. Artificial turf fields can act as sources of harmful chemicals, including
PFAS, metals, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and others identified under the
"Chemical Impacts on Human Health" section of this report. 71 72 73 74 75 76 The State Wetlands
Protection—Act and its regulations, along with Arlington's Town Bylaw and its regulations,
66 https://www.turi.org/var/plain_site/storage/original/application/b9727dedf5860ae7e83e3226d058b7ee.pdf
67 https://www.epa.gov/chemical-research/July-2019-report-tire-crumb-rubber-characterization-0
68htlps://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.estlett.2cOOO5O
69 https://www.turi.org/content/download/13271/203906/file/Factsheet.Artificial_Turf.September2020.pdf.pdf
70 https://joumals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/1048291120906206
71 https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/DEEP/artificialturf/DEPArtificialTurfReportpdf.pdf
72 https://www.epa.gov/chemical-research/July-2019-report-tire-crumb-rubber-characterization-0
73 https://joumals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/1048291120906206
74 https://www.turi.org/content/download/11980/188623/file/TURI+Report+2018-
002+June+2019.+Athletic+Plaing+Fields.pdf
75 https://www.turi.org/content/download/13271/203906/file/Factsheet.Artificial_Turf.September2020.pdf.pdf
76 https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cscee.2022.100280
17
require the protection of a variety of wetlands. Wetlands serve many functions and values in the
community. These include groundwater supply, flood control and storm damage prevention,
prevention of pollution, wildlife protection, plant and wildlife habitat protection, and protection
of the natural character or recreational values of the wetland resources. A table outlining the
potential negative impacts of artificial turf fields on each protected wetland interest can be found
below and a map showing the proximity of recreational facilities (existing athletic fields) to
wetland resource areas is included in Appendix 1.
Wetlands Values Table
Artificial Turf Field
Wetland Value/ Meets Wetland Possible Mitigation for
Interest Value/ Interest? Artificial Turf Field
Public or Private
Water Not applicable
Supply
Engineered Green Infrastructure (e.g., Bioretention
Ground Water Supply No Cells) may reduce some chemicals and microplastics
pp y but more research required to support this
mitigation strategy
Flood Control No- impervious engineer field design and controls
Erosion Control and
Sedimentation Maybe engineer field design and controls
Control
Storm Damage Maybe engineer field design and stormwater management
Prevention y g g g
Engineered Green Infrastructure (e.g., Bioretention
Prevention of No Cells) may reduce some chemicals and microplastics
Pollution but more research required to support this
mitigation strategy
Wildlife Protection No No mitigation available
Plant or Wildlife
Habitat No No mitigation available
Aquatic Species and
Engineered Green Infrastructure (e.g., Bioretention
their No Cells) may reduce some chemicals and some
habitats microplastics but more research required to support
this mitigation strategy
Natural Character or
recreational values of No No mitigation available
the wetland resources
Climate Change
Resilience Alternate infills may reduce some heat impacts; but
[Section 32, Arlington No no mitigation is available for loss of Carbon
Wetlands Regulations, sequestration; Sustainability issues/fossil fuel use
March 2023]
18
Artificial turf fields can contaminate the natural environment through leaching, airborne dust,
volatilization, and physical migration of artificial turf components. Elevated concentrations of
PFAS have been shown to have adverse effects on aquatic organisms, and PFAS environmental
impacts from artificial turf are under-studied, though part-per-trillion (ppt) levels have been
shown to be harmful. Elevated concentrations of the PFAS compounds PFOA and PFOS in
aquatic ecosystems can result in death of aquatic organisms and affect their growth and
reproduction. PFAS has been shown to leach from artificial turf fields and components.
Additionally, tire crumb rubber, which is an infill material for most artificial turf fields, contains
a newly discovered compound called 6ppd-quinone, which is acutely toxic to some freshwater
fish. These chemicals, individually and in combination, pose a potential hazard to wildlife, water
quality, and aquatic organisms, with an overall negative impact on the environment.
Furthermore, microplastic particles from infill and weathered grass blades can also enter
waterways, causing additional harm.77 78 As observed in Arlington at the Arlington Catholic
High School artificial turf field and referenced in Arlington's Conservation Commission
submissions to the May 2, 2023, Artificial Turf Forum and the ATSC, the tire crumb rubber infill
from the school's field has migrated toward the nearby brook and within the protected wetland
resource area of Mill Brook.
Though there is recent scientific evidence of the potential to use bioretention cells to reduce
6ppd-quinone concentrations in stormwater runoff impacted from oxidized tires / tire crumb
rubber 79, it is unclear if these systems could be scaled-up to provide stormwater mitigation for an
80,000 square foot athletic field. The European Union recently acknowledged the negative
impact of tire crumb rubber infills as microplastic pollution and in September 2023 enacted a ban
on the sale of products containing intentionally added microplastics — specifically including in
this ban"granular artificial turf infill". 80
Natural turf fields can act as a natural filter for chemical and particulate pollution. Artificial turf
fields typically do not contain systems to mitigate the chemical and particulate contamination in
stormwater infiltration or runoff. 81 Artificial turf fields that border wetlands, waterways, and
other sensitive areas and resources are of most concern. Other areas are also impacted by
artificial turf fields, as some chemicals can be volatilized and others may cling to clothing, shoes,
and equipment, migrating off the fields to surrounding areas. Any stormwater drainage from an
artificial turf field will eventually reach a wetland within Arlington. This extends environmental
concerns beyond immediate proximity to sensitive areas. A field that drains to the public
stormwater system may leak contaminants into a wetland or waterway downstream.
It should be noted that concerns about chemical runoff may arise with respect to natural turf
fields, as well. Neither the Town of Arlington nor the ATSC has tested the natural grass playing
fields in Arlington for concentrations of various chemicals of concern, including PFAS and
77 https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/1048291120906206
78 https://www.turi.org/content/download/11980/188623/file/TURI+Report+2018-
002+June+2019.+Athletic+Playing+Fields.pdf
79https://pubs.acs.org/doi/epdf/I 0.102 I/acs.estlett.300203
80 https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.est.4c00047
81 https://www.sportsfieldmanagement.or,g/natural-grass-athletic-fields/
19
phthalates. Existing natural turf fields may also contain some amounts of those chemicals.
Further study in this area is suggested.
Stormwater Management Impacts
How stormwater is retained, infiltrated, or discharged is important to the consideration of the
environmental impact of artificial turf fields. Perhaps the most critical issue in this regard is the
permeability of the playing surface, since permeable surfaces provide better stormwater
management by allowing precipitation to infiltrate into the soil, rather than running off into
storm drains or detention basins. The ability to manage stormwater will become ever more
important as precipitation events become more severe and more unpredictable with expected
climate change impacts.
The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) is considering officially
classifying artificial turf fields as impermeable surfaces under the Wetlands Protection Act. This
change, if finalized, would potentially affect the siting and maintenance of artificial turf fields.
MassDEP's latest proposed revision from December 2023 would define impervious surface for
the "purposes of stormwater management (310 CMR 10.05(6)(k)-(q))" as follows:
any surface that prevents or significantly impedes the infiltration of water into the
underlying soil, including, but not limited to artificial turf, Compacted Gravel or Soil,
roads, building rooftops, solar arrays, parking lots, Public Shared Use Paths, bicycle
paths, and sidewalks paved with concrete, asphalt, or other similar materials. 82
The permeability of artificial turf fields is a subject of debate, with some sources stating that they
can be made permeable with the proper design and maintenance, and others stating that as an
artificially constructed field, they are difficult or impossible to make permeable. While artificial
turf fields can certainly be designed to quickly drain stormwater off the field (in many cases,
more effectively than natural grass fields), the stormwater generally drains to perimeter drains
and then to a detention basin or some stormwater management system. Since artificial turf fields
are typically constructed on top of another engineered surface (rather than directly on top of the
underlying soil), the real question then becomes whether the stormwater drains to a permeable
surface, which depends on the specific design of the field.
There are techniques and systems that can allow for the capture and storage of stormwater, which
can then be allowed to infiltrate into the soil and/or be released more slowly into the stormwater
system to avoid overwhelming the system and causing flooding. Currently, artificial turf fields
impede infiltration of water into the underlying soil, although this may change in the future as
better systems are developed for managing the stormwater and allowing for improved
stormwater infiltration to occur.
At a baseline, natural grass fields are considered permeable because they consist of natural grass
over soil (unless the subgrade of the field is more heavily engineered). However, it is important
to recognize that maintaining true and effective permeability requires ongoing maintenance of
the fields, including proper aeration and grooming. Without that maintenance, the dirt
82 https://www.mass.gov/doc/310-cmr-1000-wetlands-proposed-revisions-redlinestrikeout/download
20
underneath the playing surface can become highly compacted and will not function as effectively
as a permeable surface. Even under these conditions, a natural turf field may remain more
permeable than an artificial turf field, but the exact comparison will depend on the design and
maintenance of the field. It is difficult to make general statements about the permeability and
stormwater management performance of artificial turf and natural grass fields, because the
statements are highly dependent on the design, construction, and maintenance of the individual
field, along with other factors such as topography and adjacent land use.
Climate Change Resilience Impacts and Ecological Effects
Issues surrounding climate change resilience and adaptation are increasingly critical as it
becomes clear that our climate is changing in real time and we need to adapt our natural and built
environment to address the threats associated with climate change, including extreme heat and
precipitation. MassDEP defines Climate Change Resilience in guidance documents as follows.
The capacity to prevent, withstand, respond to, adapt to, and/or recover from climate
change impacts and to build the capability and ability of an area/site/system to minimize
the adverse impacts of climate change. 83
Artificial turf fields are inconsistent with climate change resilience in that they do not minimize
anticipated adverse effects and, in fact, can exacerbate climate impacts.
Arlington has long been a leader in climate change resilience and mitigation, meaning that the
Town adopts strong policies to minimize greenhouse gas emissions. Leaving aside the carbon
footprint associated with artificial turf field construction, installation, and disposal, there are also
climate impacts from the change from grass to artificial turf fields. While natural turf fields offer
some mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions, especially carbon dioxide, artificial turf fields
offer none. 84 Carbon sequestration is the process of creating long term storage of carbon
dioxide, either geologically or in terrestrial ecosystems such as forests, fields, and other natural
carbon sinks. 85 Natural turf fields create an opportunity for carbon sequestration in the field
grass and soil, particularly if the field is well maintained and not regularly disturbed or fully
replaced (since the removal and replacement of the turf will likely result in the release of some of
the sequestered carbon). 86 While the amount of carbon sequestration that is possible through a
natural turf field is more limited than would be possible in an unbuilt naturally vegetated
environment, there is still a meaningful amount of carbon sequestration. 87 In contrast, an
artificial turf field is a fully artificial environment that does not provide any standalone
opportunity for carbon sequestration.
In the context of climate change, one must also consider the sustainability of artificial turf field
components. There is mixed data related to whether meaningful recycling of artificial turf fields
83https://www.Ispa.or /index.php?option=com dailyplanetblog&view=entr&year=2022&month=10&day=06&id=
3 76:lspa-climate-change-mcp-toolkit-available
84 https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.159974
85 https://read.dmtmag.com/i/27931-april-2011/7?
86 https://acsess.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.2134/agronj2002.9300
87 https:/www.mass.gov/doc/healthy-soils-action-plan-2023/download
21
is currently happening (or happening consistently) in the Northeastern United States. The
recycling question is an important one, because artificial turf fields must be replaced every 8-10
years. The recurring need for replacement over the lifetime of an athletic field must be
reconciled with principles of sustainability and the risks that disposed components will migrate
off site and become contaminants. If not recycled, components will be landfilled, incinerated, or
subject to chemical decomposition; all of these options have negative climate change impacts
and do not represent recycling into new plastic products. The Synthetic Turf Council states that
"the carbon footprint of a particular recycle/end-of-life option (such as trucking long distances)
may be integrated into the decision-making process and lead responsible parties to invalidate
such an option". 88
Installation of artificial turf can also have ecological effects. Habitat loss in urban settings is a
significant threat to biodiversity and ecosystem health, including the systems that humans rely on
for our quality of living. 89 Artificial turf replaces habitats, leading to a loss of plant and animal
species diversity in the area. The removal or diminishment of a hub in the natural network has
consequences for the whole system.
Cost Comparison of Artificial Turf Fields to Natural Grass Fields
In addition to health, safety, and environmental concerns, another area that is relevant to this
topic is the life cycle cost comparison between artificial and natural grass turf fields, which
includes installation, maintenance, replacement, and disposal costs.
While there are many variables to such a cost comparison, a true estimate is not possible without
assessing and considering the site-specific field conditions. Additional factors related to cost
include the potential funding sources for construction/rebuilding recreational fields, the overall
municipal budget for field maintenance, and the availability of Town staff to regularly perform
field maintenance, as opposed to outsourcing all or parts of field maintenance to contracted
landscaping companies.
As stated by Ian Lacy of Tom Irwin Advisors, "you can't compare a natural turf field to an
artificial turf field because they are completely different systems." 90 Artificial turf fields are
designed and highly engineered systems, whereas the majority of natural grass fields are
indigenous fields that have been adapted over time into playing fields. While there are many
benefits and limitations to both types of fields, there is no way to get the same level of usage
from a natural grass field as from an artificial turf field, especially with New England's weather.
Additionally, it is very challenging to assess a dollar amount to the number of hours and days in
which a playing field, either synthetic turf or natural grass, can be utilized. As such, it would
seem that a variety of factors, in addition to cost, would need to be considered when choosing the
surface and maintenance program of an athletic playing field. Some of these factors include, but
should not be limited to, the location, usage, and existing conditions of the field. Prior to major
renovations or construction of its fields, the Town of Arlington should consider the best and most
88 https://www.syntheticturfcouncil.org/page/guidelines
89htlps://www.ipbes.net/global-assessment
90 Presentation on 2/20/24 by Ian Lacy,Lead Project Advisor,Tom Irwin Advisors.
https://www.arlin tonma.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/68878/63844281099273000O
22
cost effective playing surface given site-specific conditions through a comprehensive assessment
by a professional/consultant with experience in construction and maintenance of athletic fields.
The two major sources of funding for park and playground projects in Arlington are the Capital
Plan and funding from the Community Preservation Act (CPA). In recent years, the Town has
also benefited from parks and playground funding through the American Rescue Plan Act, which
was a one-time infusion of funding from the federal government and is largely expended. It
should be noted that CPA funds are prohibited from use for the acquisition of artificial turf for
athletic fields. Although communities may still use CPA funds for other aspects of a field
project, non-CPA funds must be appropriated to acquire the artificial turf surface. 91
The Committee reviewed a variety of resources to try and better understand the costs associated
with construction and maintenance of natural grass and artificial turf fields. Because no two
resources were completely consistent in detailing what specifically is included in the cost, as
such, it is hard to know how accurate these comparisons are at this time. Those resources
include but are not limited to the following: presented material from Ian Lacy of Tom Irwin
Advisors; the Toxics Use Reduction Institute (TURI) document "Building an Organic
Maintenance Program for Athletic Fields: Guidance from Experts and Experienced
Communities"; the Turfgrass Resource Center document "Natural Grass and Artificial Turf:
Separating Myths and Facts"; as well as the maintenance costs reported by the Town of
Arlington and Arlington Public Schools. These comparisons include the costs for the field itself
and do not include costs for other typical elements of a playing field, like bleachers, lighting,
fencing, etc., or the soft costs for design and construction management.
Installation Costs (per field)
Organization Artificial Turf Natural Grass Field
Tom Irwin Advisors 92 $1,0001000 $40000
Turf grass Resource Center 93 $8501000-$1100000 $50,00046001000
• Tom Irwin Advisors- costs are based on a soccer sized field used for high school/college
play. A high school/college sized soccer field is 81,000 square feet or 1.86 acres. 94
Detailed information about what is included in the installation was not available.
• The Turfgrass Resource Center- costs are based on 85,000 square feet or 1.95 acres and
compare several types of natural grass fields to that of artificial turf fields. The artificial
turf field costs vary from basic to premium construction and account for a ground rubber
infill. The cost of natural grass fields varies depending on the soil base conditions and
the preparation needs.
91 https://www.communiiypreservation.org/allowable-uses
92 Presentation on 2/20/24 by Ian Lacy,Lead Project Advisor,Tom Irwin Advisors.
https://www.arlingtonma.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/68878/63844281099273000O
93 https://www.saratogasod.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/NaturalGrassArtificialTurf.pdf
94 https://jobsinfootball.com/blog soccer-field-dimensions/
23
Annual Field Maintenance Costs (per field)
Organization Artificial Turf Field Natural Grass Field
Tom Irwin Advisors 95 $151000 $3000
Turf grass Resource Center 96 $1300-$391000 $80044900
Town of Arlington $13NO $11M004401000
• Tom Irwin Advisors: detailed information about what is included in the maintenance
costs was not available.
• Turfgrass Resource Center
o Artificial turf includes the following: painting/removal, top dressing/inf ill,
brushing/sweeping, disinfecting/fabric softener, carper repairs (rips; joints),
water cooling, and weeding.
o Natural grass field includes the following: painting, top dressing (sand),
dragging,fertilizers,pesticides, aeration, sod replacement, and irrigation.
• Town of Arlington
o Natural grass field maintenance contract includes the following: Aeration
3x/year; slice/seeding 2x/year; over-seeding on wear areas 2x/year; fertilizing
4x/year; and soil testing 2x/year. This does not include mowing/trimming,
painting, or irrigation costs.
o Artificial turf field is the responsibility of the Public Schools. According to
Arlington's Athletic Director, the current maintenance contract includes the
following: 6 visits (2 decompaction visits and 4 grooming visits), minor seam
repairs, GMAX testing, and line painting for lacrosse and field hockey.
End of Life Costs (per field)
Organization Artificial Turf Field Natural Grass Field
Tom Irwin Advisors 97 $66500 $15000
(carpet replacement and (Resodding g 10 years)
disposal costs g 10yrs)
Turf grass Resource Center 98 $1491000-$191 1000*
• Tom Irwin Advisors: includes removal and replacement of carpet at 10 years.
Information about transportation charges was not available.
• Turfgrass Resource Center: includes disposal of carpet.
o Does not include carpet replacement, transportation, or landfill surcharges that
disposal may incur.
95 Presentation on 2/20/24 by Ian Lacy,Lead Project Advisor,Tom Irwin Advisors.
https://www.arlin tonma.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/68878/63844281099273000O
96 https://www.saratogasod.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/NaturalGrassArtificialTurf.pdf
97 Presentation on 2/20/24 by Ian Lacy,Lead Project Advisor,Tom Irwin Advisors.
https://www.arlin tonma.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/68878/63844281099273000O
98 https://www.saratogasod.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/NaturalGrassArtificialTurf.pdf
24
Importance of Field Maintenance
One major factor which contributes to the life expectancy and usability of both artificial and
natural grass fields is the maintenance of these surfaces. Ian Lacy of Tom Irwin Advisors has
referenced a study he conducted at the FIFA headquarters in Zurich, Switzerland, in which he
and his colleagues analyzed the maintenance needs of artificial turf used by a soccer association
for 10 hours/day over a one-year period. As a result, he and his colleagues created maintenance
frequency charts for both synthetic and natural turf surfaces, which can be found in Appendix 2.
While these charts are based on usage of 10 hours/day for 7 days/week, they are not suggesting
Arlington's fields need a similar level of maintenance. However, to extend the life expectancy
and usability of its fields, a maintenance schedule for Arlington's specific needs (based on field
usage related to type of activity played and number of hours per day the field is used) should be
considered, budgeted for, and adhered to. Lacy stressed that despite municipal budget
limitations, ongoing maintenance frequencies and costs must be considered in the cost of the
initial project.
Given the limited number of playing fields in Arlington, better maintenance alone will not
increase the field usage among user groups. One major challenge is Arlington's densely
populated community and lack of additional open space to construct new playing fields.
Similarly, converting one or two existing grass fields to artificial turf will not increase the usage
or allow for the expansion of new or current recreational programs, although it would allow for
user groups to access the fields earlier and later in the shoulder seasons and for some practices
and games to continue when rain occurs during the season, thereby reducing a backlog of
makeup games/practices.
While the Committee did not evaluate the full scope of field maintenance or management
options, the Town of Arlington has developed a Public Land Management Plan which outlines
those options and advises on the treatment of lands, such as playing fields, and includes
recommendations of best practices. 99 As such, the Public Land Management Plan could suggest
pathways for considering what type(s) of chemicals and maintenance make the most sense once
regular maintenance is achieved.
Findings and Recommendations
After extensive research and discussion, the members of the Artificial Turf Study Committee
reached a consensus with respect to the use of artificial turf in Arlington. Although no one on
the Committee supported a moratorium or ban on the construction of artificial turf fields in
Arlington, Committee members expressed concern with some of the environmental and health
shortcomings of the product. In particular, the materials used in the production of artificial turf
raise concerns about the impact on its users and the natural environment, including possible
chemical pollution in aquatic ecosystems, particulate and plastic pollution, and increased heat.
Committee members noted other environmental shortcomings of artificial turf, including its lack
of carbon sequestration, the use of fossil fuels in its production, subsequent environmental
impacts due to its required replacement every 8-10 years, and inconsistent recycling at end-of-
life.
99 https://www.arlingtonma.gov/Home/Components/News/News/11931/265 Pcommunity=development
25
On the other side of the ledger, Committee members recognized the merits of artificial turf, none
more important than its accessibility and durability even in harsh New England weather.
Although there is great appeal to the concept of natural grass playing fields, the simple reality is
that those fields do not allow for the same degree of use as artificial turf fields. This Committee
recognizes that young people greatly benefit from usable playing fields. A natural grass field
does not serve its purpose if it sits unusable in early spring and late fall due to weather damage or
overuse. Particularly in the shoulder seasons of March-April and October-November, artificial
turf fields offer far more extensive opportunities for use than their natural turf counterparts.
Moreover, Committee members acknowledged that many of the health and environmental
shortcomings of artificial turf can be mitigated by using non-plastic and non-crumb rubber infills
—with natural, alternative infills offering great potential.
On the whole, the Committee saw the benefits and drawbacks of artificial turf fields and
carefully evaluated them. While Committee members opposed a ban on future artificial turf
construction in Arlington, they could not fully embrace the option either. The Committee
believes that artificial turf should be an option for future field planners in Arlington, after careful
evaluation of the practicality and feasibility of natural turf options.
To the extent that future field planners choose to seriously evaluate artificial turf as an option,
the Committee feels strongly that the following points should be considered by those planners for
all future projects 1 oo:
• Crumb rubber infills should not be used in artificial turf fields in Arlington.
• Any artificial turf installed at an Arlington field should be certified by an independent lab
(not just the manufacturer) as being free of PFAS and other toxic chemicals before
shipment.
• Any artificial turf field (and, for that matter, any natural grass field in Arlington) should
be held to strict heat standards on the hottest days of the year, meaning those fields
should be closely monitored by a designated Town of Arlington official to ensure that the
fields are closed when surface temperatures exceed a certain recognized threshold.
• Any decision about where to place an artificial turf field should consider if placement of
the field is in or near a designated heat island in Arlington (i.e., the hottest 5% of areas in
Arlington, as determined by the Metropolitan Area Planning Council's published
analysis).
loo The Committee emphasizes that its discussions did not concentrate on any particular field or project. Any field in
Arlington that is already artificial turf(like the Arlington Catholic High School field)or is far along in the planning
and development stage(such as the new Arlington High School fields)was not a focus of this Committee's work or
discussion. This Committee's findings and recommendations should inform future development at those fields
when the time comes for the artificial turf fields at those locations to be replaced.
26
• When the Town of Arlington considers renovations of its fields, whether as natural grass
or artificial turf, it should examine equitable access to high quality playing surfaces and
balance the needs of different neighborhoods in that planning process.
• There should be no purchase of an artificial turf field until the Town of Arlington
contractually mandates that the manufacturer will take full responsibility for ensuring that
the materials will be recycled in the most environmentally sensitive manner possible at
the end of the product's life.
The Committee wishes to emphasize that every future field development project in Arlington
should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, keeping the recommendations of this report in mind
when doing s o.
Regardless of whether Arlington builds any artificial turf fields in the future, the Committee feels
strongly that all of Arlington's fields (artificial and natural turf alike) require high-quality
maintenance programs. No future field should be developed (or re-developed) in Arlington
without the costs of those high-quality maintenance programs being fully factored into the
financial analysis for those projects. Even if Arlington never constructs another artificial turf
field, it is absolutely essential that the Town maintain its existing natural turf fields to a higher
standard than it has been doing in the past, which includes proper resting of the fields.
The Committee wants what is best for Arlington's field users, especially its youngest: healthy,
well maintained playing fields that allow maximal use, enjoyment, and safety. Like any
manufactured product of the modern age, artificial turf has its strengths and weaknesses. The
Committee is now quite familiar with both. In the final analysis, the Committee believes that
artificial turf fields can be an option for Arlington's future field projects (a) after careful
evaluation of the practicality and feasibility of natural turf options, and (b) with proper health
and environmental safeguards in place.
27
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Zuccaro,P.,Licato,J.,Davidson,E.A., Thompson,D. C.,&Vasiliou,V. (2023).Assessing extraction-analysis methodology
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31
Appendices
32
APPENDIX I
RECREATION FACILITIES AND WETLANDS JURISDICTION
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33
APPENDIX 2
MAINTENANCE FREQUENCY- SYNTHETIC SURFACE & NATURAL TURF
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