Learn the Facts - Safe Playing Fields






Safe Playing Fields & Integrated Pest Management

History:  In 2010 the ban on utilizing Integrated Pest Management (IPM) on elementary school fields went into effect, disallowing sustainable and thoughtful approaches to the control of pests:  weeds and insects, jeopardizing the safety and quality of playing fields. 

Background:  IPM is an effective and environmentally sensitive approach to pest management that relies on a combination of common-sense practices. IPM programs use current, comprehensive information on the life cycles of pests and their interaction with the environment. This information, in combination with available pest control methods, is used to manage pest damage with the least possible hazard to people, property, and the environment. 

IPM has provided for safe, reliable and judicious use of pest control applications in lawn care, turf management, farming and inside buildings.

IPM also: 

  • Allows for well maintained athletic fields and playgrounds, free of pest hazards.
  • Greatly reduces the use of chemical pest and weed controls
  • Prevents injuries to student athletes from rough playing surfaces, weed and insect allergies.  
  • Reduced liability claims against towns and schools due to injuries.
  • Protects the financial investments towns have made in athletic fields and school grounds.
  • Greatly reduces the amount of pest control utilized for maximum effectiveness.
  • Utilizes IPM trained, regulated and licensed professionals for pest control applications.
  • EPA calls for IPM to be in every school by 2015.

Action Needed:  We need to tell the IPM story and you can make a difference.

  • Distribute “Every Athlete Deserves A Soft Landing” brochure, available at no charge from CTEC at 860-586-7508.
  • Local sport associations, Parent Teachers Associations, members of local Boards of Education & Boards of Finance, industry professionals
  • Report the loss of field quality to CTEC, we need locations and photos
  • Contact the Connecticut Environment Committee and let them know your concerns and support for IPM.
  • Have your local association join the list of IPM supporters, call CTEC.