| It’s
better to do a little planning before you start.
That way you'll incorporate the right materials, equipment, and labor
to get the job done.
Let’s
look at some basic ‘need to know’ information first, and then some
choices for whipping your field into shape.
- The
best way to begin is to conduct a pre-season audit of the
field. Using the checklists you can evaluate the dirt and turf
playing surface. Identify the problems you need to fix and the
improvements you want to make.
- Most fields
have some sort of problem or another... soil buildup, lips, ruts,
uneven surfaces, or worn out areas. The turf
maintenance and dirt
maintenance sections tell you everything
you need to know before you start.
- Next you
need to know something about the field you are working with. What
size is it? little league, high school, college? See the
diagrams and field layouts section for the
official measurements you need to follow.
- And you need
to know what kind and how much seed, fertilizer, or topdressing
you need based on the size of your field. And what kind of equipment
do you need to do the job? Find this information in the equipment
and products
section.
- If you're
like me, it's always good to see a real example. The
case
studies and projects section has examples from simple maintenance
to full scale renovation and reconstruction. I know you're
anxious to get started, but taking a look at these will really
help you a lot.
Each section
includes tips & hints as well as common mistakes to avoid. And if
you really want to see some maintenance
goofs that will turn your stomach, check out
this section. You definitely don't want these to happen to you!
Do some planning before you get started on your project.
Now you have
a plan. You know the products and equipment needed and you have
an idea how much labor is going to be required.
So
how do you pay for this? Most of us coaches and parents don't
have much money to work with. So, how to do you get started if you
don't have much money? You'll find some great ideas in the
funding section. Included are ideas for getting immediate discounts
and donations as well as putting in place longer term sources of
everything it takes to get the job done.
You might be
asking , 'How
do I make a successful presentation of my plan to my board members,
ayhletic directors, or park officials?' I've included some great
examples for you to start from.
The
biggest obstacle to your project will not be lack of money.
It won't be lack of equipment and it won't be lack of supplies.
It will be this - someone taking the initiative, putting together
a plan, and getting a few good helpers. That's what it takes. And
it is easy.
Still
have questions? Check out the FAQs or Frequently Asked Questions
to get you going.
Looking
to be a complete field maintenance master? Check out the 2015
edition of the baseball field maintenance handbook:
Baseball
Field Maintenance Handbook
|
 |
