I'm sure that we have all seen or heard about the turf fields that have been recently constructed in Dickinson CIW, and Newing communities on campus. This may be seen as a positive development since it reduces the amount of mud in intramural sports fields. However, the harm it causes to the environment and to human mental health associated with nature cannot be ignored. With three natural grass fields already converted to plastic and the Mountainview field soon to be as well, it is time that this issue is addressed.

Environmentally, turf is a major concern. Turf fields are made of plastic and when plastic is exposed to the elements and people walking over it, inevitably little pieces will break off. Annually, we are looking at a loss of up to 8% of turf blades, which amounts to up to 3,200 lbs of microplastics A YEAR. These plastics then get into the air, water, and soil, polluting the campus environment. These fields are not a "one and done" situation either; the lifespan of a turf field is only 10 YEARS. Take a minute to compare that to the lifespan of a natural grass field, which can last decades with considerably less maintenance. Of course there are some expenses with maintaining a natural grass field, but it is doubtful that they can even come close to the $1 MILLION that some synthetic fields of this size are estimated to cost. I'm sure that we can all name a few initiatives, resources, and upgrades we would like to see on campus that could be accomplished with the $1 MILLION that will need to be spent EVERY 10 YEARS to maintain these plastic fields.

Yes, turf fields are carcinogenic. Yes, turf fields can contain latex, which is a problem for people with latex allergies. Athletes can get "turf burns," which can lead to infection. And, you are most likely inhaling microplastics when you sit on or walk over a turf field. They may look nice from a distance, but who wants to lay out and read a book on 100+ degree plastic in the summer? Think about the feeling of walking through a parking lot in the summer and feeling the heat waves from the blacktop and you'll understand how a turf field in the summer would also feel.

These fields are unsafe, uncomfortable, and frankly a waste of money. We unfortunately already have three, but there's still a chance to preserve some dignity and save Mountainview Community from this carcinogenic eyesore. Say NO to constructing another turf field! It is on us to hold the university accountable for its harmful actions!