www.stma.org September 2016 | SportsTurf 17
As previously mentioned, this field had a drainage issue.
With the replacement of the synthetic turf eliminating one of the
contributing factors, two still remained. In discussions with the
consultants it was decided to scarify the existing base gravels to
lessen compaction thereby improving their drainage. Second,
was to build a crown on the field. Third, was to install a drainage
pad under the synthetic turf to take advantage of the new crown
on the field. Last, was to install a channel drain between the
track and the edge of the field to pick up the water draining from
the track and not allowing it to disperse onto the field.
An additional part of the project scope was to install a 4-foot
high ball control fence in sections around the majority of the
field to minimize conflict between field and track users.
On March 18, 2013, the contractor started removing the
existing synthetic turf field by cutting it width-wise into 3 m
sections, rolling it up with the fill still intact and placing the rolls
on a tractor/trailer unit for transportation to a recycling plant in
Washington State.
Next was the process of scarifying the gravel base with the
synthetic turf removed and the installation of perimeter drain
between the track and the edge of the synthetic turf. After
scarification of the base gravels was completed water was still
ponding, especially in the southern portion of the field after
rainfall. It was decided to camera the existing drainage system
and it was determined that 520 m was compromised and needed
