Pest Management Practices for Athletic Field Turf.

Scrutiny over the use of pesticides on athletic fields is increasing. The Sports Turf Managers Association reports that pesticide restrictions pertaining to athletic field turf are in place in 41 out of the 50 United States, with several municipalities banning the use of pesticides on athletic fields altogether. These regulatory decisions are being made despite the fact that data documenting the scope of actual pesticide use on athletic fields are minimal. Additionally, studies have shown that use of certain pesticides to control weed, disease, and insect pests of athletic field turf can create safer playing surfaces for athletes by reducing the risk of surface related injury. When pesticides are applied, market research data illustrate that herbicides are used most commonly, with insecticides and fungicides being used less frequently. Efforts must be made to better communicate the scope and benefit of pest management practices implemented on athletic fields.