Best Management Practices for Carolina Sports Fields (2nd ed.)

Sports fields in the Carolinas and Southeastern US are among the finest available in the world. With facilities ranging from local municipal to professional ballparks, the Carolinas have a wide-range of fields. Many of these are high-profile and TV revenue-generating parks while others are local community assets. Providing a desirable appearing, yet, safe playing surface for participants maintained in an environmentally responsible manner, is the ultimate goal of this publication.

This book is intended as a reference guide for sports field manager, assistants, facility managers, owners/general managers, students, and regulatory agencies in their efforts to grow and maintain some of the world's most prestigious fields. When published, the authors made every attempt to insure the information was as complete and up-to-date as possible. However, management and pesticide recommendations are constantly updated. New products, grasses, and management techniques continue to evolve, while older ones often disappear. Contact your State University Turf Specialist, County Cooperative Extension Service office, and attend the various Turfgrass Field Days and Turfgrass Association's Annual Conference and Trade Show for the latest recommendations.

The authors of this document, Dr. Bert McCarty from Clemson University and Dr. Grady Miller from NC State University, are well known experts in the field of Agronomy. They are both heavily involved in turf research, turf extension services and educating the next generation of Sports Turf managers. Agronomic professionals throughout the country, continue to rely on their valuable input, expertise, and knowledge. Both possess the ability to present information in such a way that it can be

easily translated and used on a practical level. Through their knowledge and expertise this BMP was developed to promote a culture of safe, playable and environmentally-friendly athletic surfaces.

Whether it be through involvement in youth or recreational sports, professionally, or simply watching sporting events as fans, team sports have an inherent ability to connect people both young and old. Providing safe and environmentally cohesive playing surfaces is the goal of every Sports Field Manager and this book.