Natural Grass VS Artificial Turf: Separating Myths and Facts

No matter what you call it – Artificial Turf, Synthetic Turf, Plastic Grass – it is a fact that artificial surfaces lack most of the benefits provided by natural turfgrass. Many athletes, coaches, parents and spectators take for granted the significant benefits of natural grass. Choosing the best playing surface for our children and athletes should not be taken lightly. Anyone interested in a sustainable future should be fully informed about the benefits of natural turfgrass to our ecosystem and concerned about the potential negative impact of using synthetic surfaces.

The surface of artificial turf can reach high tempatures causing dangerous burns, as well as certain injuries being seen more often due directly to artificial turf and its inherent make-up and inflexibility. What's worse is that the materials used for synthetic turf fields and infill not only carry harmful bacteria, but trap unsanitary body fluids, opening the way for infection; chemicals used for sanitation create additional problems. It's no wonder more and more players are requesting real grass playing fields. So it's no surprise that Sports Centers everywhere are getting the request for “the real thing” from it’s players more and more.

Natural turfgrass playing surfaces have been used successfully for many years and there is a wealth of scientific data documenting their safety. With proper management and balanced use, natural grass fields have been proven to withstand and accommodate multiple sports team usage. While natural grass surfaces may become worn from excessive use, those portions of the fields can be easily, economically and quickly replaced. With proper management,
the playability of a natural grass field, with a consistent and uniform playing surface, can be maintained year after year for a fraction of the cost of an artificial
turf surface over its projected life expectancy. While artificial turf has made improvements, artificial turf manufacturers continue attempts to simulate the exceptional playing surface that only natural grass provides.

Read more information regarding the myths and facts about natural grass and artificial turf:

Natural Grass and Artificial Turf booklet- PDF
Serious Questions About New Artificail Turf- PDF
2006 NFLPA Players Playing Surface Survey- PDF
Environmental Benefits of Responsible Landscape Management- PDF