Lower Gile Field is slated to be covered with artificial turf  in spring, 2023. Artificial turf is made of plastics that leach PFAS into the environment. These are "forever" chemicals that are not healthy for humans, and are particularly bad for the wetlands area and the Pine Tree Brook, just steps away from the field. These chemicals cause cancer, endocrine disruption, and other serious health issues. The EPA now says there is no safe amount of PFAS for humans.

The environmental impact of plastic turf is often obscured by the artificial turf industry.  The acres of plastic are not recycled in the US, despite claims to the contrary.  After 8-10 years, the plastic grass and backing are hauled to landfills.  Additionally, artificial turf is not safer than natural grass for athletes, as the sales material for plastic fields often falsely claims. Professional football, soccer, and baseball are all demanding natural grass over plastic.

Many people in the nearby neighborhood do not want a plastic field.  The community will lose natural green space, and the field will create a “heat island” near their homes.  On hot summer days artificial turf temperatures can soar to 160°--compared to 87° for natural grass.  The neighbors have many other concerns about the project as well, which includes stadium lighting, mimicking daylight—within 300 feet of homes. The proposal also includes bleachers to accommodate hundreds of spectators and a sound system.  The neighborhood already hosts two other artificial turf fields.  

We, the undersigned, call on the Milton Town Select board members to put a halt to the reconstruction of Lower Gile Field with artificial turf and instead to use real grass with better organic maintenance procedures that will allow healthier access to everyone who uses the field. It will also provide the safest environment for athletes, children, wildlife, and families for many decades to come. It's time to assist mother nature, rather than destroy the very environment we are blessed to have and should protect for future generations.