Tru Mark's Trail Blazing Blog

TURF-IE -- turf management covered in news and popular media

2010-01-30T07:32:00.004-06:00

Ross Kurcab has created a TURF-IE Facebook fan page where he covers turf management stories in the news and other popular media outlets.

Ross stated, "I believe part of being a professional is being current with the news of your chosen industry. It can be very educational – who knew they were using recycled glass as a sub-base for natural grass fields in New Zealand?"

I totally agree that as a professional you must develop a life long learning philosophy where you search out educational outlets whether in print media, on-line media, and through personal contact. Tru Mark Athletic Field Marker also is capturing professional related turf management news and product announcements.

Ross reflects, "Don’t be afraid to comment and leave your own links. We at TURF-IE encourage stupidity, high-quality information, fun, and fellowship. I’ve primed the machine, now it’s up to you members to help paint the logo."

Please join Ross's TURF-IE Facebook fan page to learn what is in the turf management news and become better informed as a professional.
[http://www.facebook.com/group.php?v=wall&ref=search&gid=263405963071]

Fewer Injuiries Reported in 3-year Study--College Football Injuries on FieldTurf Versus Natural Grass

2010-01-15T10:09:00.002-06:00

A report on the official study entitled: “Incidence, Mechanisms, and Severity of Game-Related College Football Injuries on FieldTurf Versus Natural Grass: A Three-Year Prospective Study”.

[http://t.love.com/289352408]

The published research concludes that college football games played on FieldTurf synthetic turf playing surfaces resulted in statistically fewer and less severe injuries than those played on natural grass. The peer-reviewed study is published in the American Journal of Sports Medicine.

This report does not necessarily support the findings reported by an 2008 NFL players opinion study report in our earlier blog, March 2, 2009.

Rigid Custom Sports Stencils

2010-01-11T15:23:00.004-06:00

Tru Mark is now offering rigid plastic custom sports stencils. These unique stencils are manufactured from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) sheet plastic using an automated router table. Rigid Sports Stencils are for marking on hard surfaces to enhance special events, parking lots, indoor and outdoor tracks, playgrounds, and sports fields.

We've gone one step further for those responsible for marking running tracks. Review images of our custom made Track Lane and Runway Marking Stencils. Ask us for pricing on different track stencil combinations. Pricing starts at $6.95 to over $50.00. Rigid Custom Track Stencil are manufactured from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) sheet plastic using an automated router table. Sent us a request for quote by email: TruMarkAFM@eSelling4u.com or by Fax: (707) 276-1061. Please include your zip code for determining shipping and handling costs.

Removable Field Marking Paint on Natural Turf?

2010-01-10T05:46:00.004-06:00

What do you do to remove field marking paint from a natural grass turf sports field? That is the question forwarded recently.

"We are a major stadium in Australia that caters for rugby and soccer games.

As these games are televised it is important that the previous sports lines are removed.

Do you have a removable paint for natural turf?
The turf we have is Bermuda couch which is over sown in Winter with Rye seed."

Now to some options.

Most turf paints applied to natural turf are removed by mowing the lines off as the grass grows. One of the keys is to minimize the spray depth on the grass blades which would suggest a lower pressure lower volume airless sprayer system.

I’ve used Simple Green cleaning solution, environmentally-sensitive non-toxic cleaner/degreaser, to help remove field marking paint but it would need some brushing which would most likely damage the grass. I've even added a little Simple Green to the diluted paint solution without turf grass impact and the paint appeared to be removed quicker when I sprayed water under pressure (80 psi).

Another option is aerosol chalk. It is applied just like aerosol paint yet performs like traditional powdered chalk (calcium carbonate or marble dust). Once it dries it will be removed through foot traffic and water.

We also offer a bulk chalk solution that can be diluted and applied using an airless sprayer. This can be shipped by air cargo with less restrictions since it would not be pressurized. Removal would be similar to aerosol chalk.

To help break down the paint/chalk on the natural grass you could use an mechanical brush system, in addition to using the Simple Green and water. One popular model is the Stihl KM series KombiMotors Interchangeable KombiSystem, KB-KM Bristle Brush.

Variety of Field Painting Challenges--Cleaning is #1 Issue

2010-01-07T12:21:00.004-06:00

We recently had a series of communications with a prospective customer asking about our field marking equipment. To help us better understand their requirements we generated a series of questions.

We noticed from your website (soccer association website) that you have access to soccer fields around your community. Are you currently using aerosol paint or are
you already using bulk latex paint? Do you have a central location for your supplies and mixing/cleaning operations? Do you have a team of volunteers to help stripe the fields or have you been able to contract out this service?

Their response below generated a more specific set of information to help them evaluate their situation and how we may be able help.

"We have been doing a combination of things. We have some fields that we do with aerosol (150 cases / yr) and we have been contracting a painter to do the 10 fields at a city facility.

We have full time people who can do the painting. The #1 issue is cleaning and storage. Right now we have no location that has water and I'm not sure what the RS requires for clean up."

Our response now goes into more detail.

Having a running water source will be important but not an absolutely necessary requirement.

1) Left over paint in the tanks is removed by opening a two-way ball valve at the bottom of the two tanks. We came up with an upgrade kit that is now standard equipment. Part #: 90010-121-018, RS-500 Bottom Intake Line Upgrade Kit, can be viewed near the top 1/3 of the following website page.
2) Once the left over paint is removed the tanks should be rinsed with clean water using a spray nozzle if possible, couple gallons each tank, and the diluted paint used during the next mixing process.
3) Next you add clean water to the tanks, a couple gallons each, and run this water through the complete system, i.e., pumps, spray tips, check valves. Because the paint is circulated back into the tank, our paint agitation system, the tanks should be drained once again. At the conclusion of the process you should remove and clean the inline screen (show on image above) below the tanks, the spray tips and check valves at the spray head assembly.
4) Final step is to add a couple gallons of clean water for a final rinse cycle running the system once again. We like to add a product call “pump protector”, 1 to 2 ounces per gallon of water as part of this last rinse cycle. This product can stay in the system. It has the benefit of minimizing the paint buildup in the system. We also recommend using Simple Green all purpose cleaner.

It normally takes me 15-20 minutes to go through the cleaning process. Once a year depending on the use, the pump valve kit will likely need to be replaced which is a fairly straight forward process using Phillips screw driver to remove the pump head (where hoses are connected) (6 Philips head screws) and separating the pump valve kit from the pump diaphragm kit. Over time latex paint will gradually collect on the valve kit thus reducing the performance of the pump (lower pump pressure). Part #: 100-159-031, Pump Valve Kit 3.3 GPM (Viton), on the same website page referenced above (3/4 the way down the page). I’ve attached a copy of the pump configuration (We use a no control pump head versus the electronic control pump head shown.).

This Shurflo pump has been used for many years by the agricultural, food, RV, and boating industries. Tru Mark introduced this 12-volt diaphragm pump technology to the line striping industry in 1995, low volume low pressure, a very minimal safety issue compared to the high pressure pavement stripers and the CO2 and compressed air technologies.

Each tank has its own pump. These are selectable through a toggle switch. The overall striping operation is controlled by a toggle switch on the steering wheel. There is a couple reason for this. It help minimize a single point of failure in the system. If you only have a couple fields to stripe you only need to use one tank of paint (just put water in the other tank for equipment balance). Here’s a website page that shows this configuration that is now standard on all RS-500s. The chassis has changed slightly from the images shown. The engine throttle assembly is now on the left side of the seat.

The unit can be stored outside as long as the unit isn’t exposed to freezing conditions. A inexpensive tarp can be used to cover the unit when not in use. We have trickle charger for the battery so it maintains a good charge between striping operations.

Many times I carry 5-gallon pails of water and paint to the striping locations and do the mixing and cleaning on-site. The Paint Mule would be very helpful in carry the water in the 20-gallon tanks and 5-gallon pails of paint to the field locations.

We have numerous customers tell us they use much less paint with a self-propelled rider and save a lot of time on each field (moving quicker over the field) while putting down a nice crisp line.

Using a field striper and latex paint is like painting a house, if want to use the equipment (brushes and rollers) again then the tools need to cleaned for them to perform the next time.

Sports Facility Specification Guide

2010-01-04T13:40:00.006-06:00

Athletic Business publishes one of the finest reference documents for grounds maintenance, sports facility personnel and youth sports volunteers. Their Sports Facility Specification Guide is one of the most used reference documents that I find myself referring to on a yearly basis. This guide lists numerous field dimensions that is needed by personnel line striping and setting up a field for the first time. The guide covers 15 plus high school, college, and professional field specifications for sports such as football, soccer, lacrosse, rugby, track, field hockey, baseball, softball, and many others.

You can also gain access to several other Athletic Business white papers including, Providing Safe Facilities, How to Avoid a Lawsuit, and Making the Downturn Work for You.

Tru Mark has developed several desktop layout tools using MS Excel for soccer, rugby, lacrosse, and ultimate frisbee. Check out the description of these tools and then send an email requesting a copy of the respective tool.

2010 Sports Turf Management Course Offerings

2010-01-04T09:39:00.003-06:00

Always on the hunt for educational material on sports turf management we have the latest 2010 Rutger's Continuing Education offering.
The Rutgers-NJAES Office of Continuing Education in cooperation with the New Jersey Sports Field Managers Association is offering an Athletic Field Construction and Maintenance short course Feb. 16-18.
In addition to this 3-day course, half-day courses are offered in these special athletic field topics: Understanding Synthetic Fields and Baseball/Softball Infield Skin Construction & Management.
Agenda
Day One
— Soils for Athletic Field Managers
— Insights into Athletic Field Problems
— Sports Field Safety
— Site Preparation and Construction Procedures
— Irrigation Systems – Design and Installation
— Selecting Turfgrasses and Establishment Procedures
Day Two
— Turfgrass Maintenance Procedures
— Operation and Maintenance of Irrigation Systems
— Weed, Disease and Insect Control
— Pesticide Application Technology
— Safe Handling, Storage and Use of Pesticides
— Disease Problems and Their Control
Day Three
— Equipment Maintenance for Performance and Longevity
— Contending With Soil Compaction
— Renovation and Repair of Existing Fields
— Infield Maintenance Procedures
— Striping, Lining and Painting
— Smart Budgeting and Getting the Job Done
For more information or to register, click here.

EPA Study of Synthetic Turf and Crumb Rubber Finds 'Low Level of Concern'

2009-12-15T11:01:00.003-06:00

Further confirmation that synthetic turf fields using rubber infield material have a low risk to youth participants. EPA Study of Synthetic Turf and Crumb Rubber Finds 'Low Level of Concern'

Study findings:

* Particulate matter, metals and volatile organic compound concentrations were measured in the air samples and compared with areas away from the turf fields (background levels). The levels found in air samples from the artificial turf were similar to background levels.
* No tire-related fibers were observed in the air samples.
* All air concentrations of particulate matter and lead were well below levels of concern.
* More than 90 percent of the lead in the tire crumb material was tightly bound and unavailable for absorption by users of the turf fields.
* Zinc, which is a known additive in tires, was found in tire crumb samples. However, air and surface wipe monitoring levels of zinc were found to be below levels of concern.

Tru Mark's Top 10 Time and Money Saving Tips

2009-12-07T11:04:00.014-06:00

Where should you spend you scare resources to produce the most value and greatest support for your sports field operations? Over the past several years we've come across several excellent resources which have been incorporated into our website FAQ page as well as new products and updates to existing products. These tips are not necessarily in any particular priority. You may have experienced some time and money saving tips as well, please share these with others.

Tru Mark Athletic Field Marker Top 10 Time and Money Saving Tips.
1. Convert from aerosol to bulk latex field marking paint. When organizations grow in the number of sport fields needing line striping the best value is to use airless paint striping equipment to reduce your cost of field marking paint as well as save time and improve the quality of lines.
2. Use removable chalk for temporary lines. Either aerosol chalk or bulk chalk can be easily applied to a natural grass or synthetic turf surface without a significant amount of cleaning required to remove the lines. Normally wear and water will remove these temporary lines, just as on a dirt infield. For longer lasting temporary lines on synthetic turf please consider the TrailBlazer field marking product line.
3. Use the various Tru Mark MS Excel spreadsheet layout tools to quickly and accurately layout any sports field to include: soccer, lacrosse, rugby, Ultimate frisbee. No matter the size of the field the desktop tool will calculate the different intersections on the field of play for pulling a string and line striping.
4. Mark the playing field intersections with easily located markers. Use a metal field anchor to quickly located an intersection using a magnet or marking whiskers that can be seen at the mowed grass level. Eliminate the time consuming effort of hunting for a buried intersection at the start of a new season.
5. Use a filled on-site yet sealed sand bag for ballast and barriers. Tru Mark's different style sand bags are designed to be filled on location and sealed to prevent spillage for indoor as well as barrier purposes. Whether holding down a batting tee, door or car stopper, or a door frame or environmental barrier These sand bags will save a lot of time over their years of service.
6. Always strain field marking paint prior to use. Bulk latex paint needs to be stirred prior to mixing with water and after water is added. If the supplier can shake the bulk latex paint prior to delivery that is even better. During the pouring to the diluted paint into the paint delivery container the flow should be strained with at least a 30 mesh screw. Catching the undissolved solids will prevent plugging of equipment, especially the spray tip(s) during field striping operations. Tru Mark offers a paint cleaning and mixing kit, including a screened funnel, to help customers.
7. Join a professional organization to help with your life-long learning opportunities. Whether it is a turf grass and landscaping organization or a youth sport association you will make new connections and opportunities to learn from others. Now with improved communications capabilities these learning opportunities have expanded to more remote learning features. For example, Sports Turf Managers Association is a well respected national professional organization with state chapters and a certification program.
8. Keep on hand the common replacement parts for your field marking equipment. There is nothing worse then being broke down due a $10 to $40 part. When buying a piece of equipment check with the supplier and confirm part numbers of the common replacement parts. Try and keep at least one spare on hand at all times. During the cleaning operation get into a habit of replacing those replacement parts, e.g., spray tips, screens, check valves, pump valve kits. That way you can inspect these items on a more regular basis.
9. When selecting field marking equipment look for products that provide longevity in the operation and parts, especially those parts that receive a significant amount of wear. For example, the paint shoe assembly where the paint spray is limited to a specific area and many times comes in contact with the striping surface should be made of high quality materials that are not easily broken or bent.
10. Prevent rain outs and excess wear areas by purchasing and deploying good quality field tarps and protective covers. A baseball field tarp is essential to maintaining proper soil/dirt moisture for pitching mounds and plate areas. This is especially important during summer months and times of raining conditions. A well maintained tarp can save a tournament or double header from being canceled. Football sideline experience excess wear so protect this area with field cover, minimize turf replacement or track replacement costs.

Ultimate Frisbee Field Layout Tool

2009-11-23T15:25:00.000-06:00

The Tru Mark Ultimate Field Layout Tool is designed for Ultimate organizations and field striping personnel needing a simple yet accurate tool to help in laying out and striping their sports fields. No matter what your requirements you can generate symmetric dimensions for any age group or space restrictions.

The Utlimate field calculation are figured using the length and width of the playing field proper. The endzone distance is a fixed depth 23 meters (25 yards or 75') The player and spectator boundary lines are also at a fixed distance from back of the end zone and side playing field proper, 3 meters (3.25 yards or 10') for the player line and 5 meters (5.4 yards or 16') for spectator line. The Brick and Reverse Brick points are based on fixed distances from the goal line. The Midfield point is the half way distance between the goal lines, on a regulation field it would be 32 meters (40 yards or 105').

The desktop tool uses the MS Excel spreadsheet application with functions that generate staking locations based on user supplied dimensions and the center line of the field through the center point, the goal, end zone, player and spectator lines.

The spreadsheet layout tool allows the user to plug in a value (in feet) into a cell below each listed Ultimate field dimension. The orientation of the layout tool is based on staking out the full length of field down the center line of the field intersecting the goal line through the endzone line, player, and spectator line. The actual field staking procedure requires the use of two measuring tapes. One tape is staked or held at the Midfield (center point at the middle of the field and pulled to the associated intersection points. The other tape is staked or held at the Center Point on the Spectator Line (beyond the end zone and player line). The layout tool calculates the intersections for the two tape measurements listed in feet and inches or just feet. The Ultimate Layout Tool reflects the stake intersections for 1/4 of the Ultimate field (upper left quadrant when looking at a field with goals left to right).

Updated Women's Lacrosse Field Dimension Rules

2009-11-22T08:30:00.000-06:00

In 2006 US Lacrosse Women's Division Board of Governors voted there are now hard boundaries, there is still flexibility in the size of the playing area. The maximum playing area remains at 140 x 70 yards and the minimum playing area remains at 110 x 60 yards. The goals shall be placed no more than 100 yards and no less than 90 yards apart. There must be a minimum of 10 yards and a maximum of 20 yards of space behind each goal line to the end line.

Here are some US Lacrosse website references that you should find useful when laying out a woman's and girl's lacrosse pitch/field: Women's Lacrosse Field Dimensions (2009) (page 5), and Girl's Lacrosse Field Dimensions (2009) (page 89), and How to Line a Field (US Lacrosse).

Community Entities Joining Forces--Community effort matches uses to needs

2009-11-20T14:56:00.001-06:00

I ran across an interesting article from the Park and Recreation Business Magazine, Joining Forces, Community effort matches uses to needs. http://tinyurl.com/JoiningForces

This particular article focused on the Yuma, AZ school district and city working out an arrangement on installing a new aquatic facility in an under served area of the community. This concept has an interesting application for our community, Norfolk, NE.

Connecting the operations portion of the concept to our local YMCA may also be helpful for an aquatic facility.

Our Memorial Park, both football field and pool, is an obvious opportunity for this type of joining forces effort.

While living in Colorado Springs, CO, there was an arrangement on a high school pool that the school district paid for yet allowed the City Rec department operate during non school hours for community use.

How can we include the NECC (community college) into the mix? They seem to have
a large enough tax base to increase their infrastructure investments. What
instruction program, e.g., nursing college, sports services, etc., would be
enhanced through access to a community structure? Would Faith Regional Hospital
be an important partner associated with aquatic rehabilitation services?

Turf Colorant Test Strips Show Effectiveness

2009-11-16T13:45:00.008-06:00

Pictures are worth a thousand words. So is the case in showing the impact that turf colorant applications have on turf grass and conifer trees. Several test strips were made on Kentucky Blue grass in November as it was going dormant as well as blue spruce needles and branches. The Tru Mark SwitchBack Kameelyan Blue Turf Colorant was tested using different dilution ratios, from 1:10, 1:20, and 1:30, 1 part colorant to different parts water. Although not tested, a dilution ratio of 1:40 should provide adequate results when costs are a significant factor and where touch up operations are necessary.

Tru Mark also supplies the SwithBack Kameelyan Bermuda Turf Colorant for those below the cool grass regions.

Earlier blog posting on the subject can be read at
http://www.athleticfieldmarker.com/2009/06/painting-lawn-grass-and-fariway-turf.html and http://www.athleticfieldmarker.com/2009/11/painting-living-tree-for-holiday-season.html

The turf colorant was applied using the Model E-100 12-volt diaphragm pump technology and a spray nozzle bracket modification, Part # 90010-121-0021 with an extended horizontal clamping rod to produce increased line width. The the standard spray wand was adapted for tree spraying using the Conversion Fan Spray Tip Kit
Part Number: 90010-121-0022.

Painting a Living Tree for the Holiday Season

2009-11-05T14:14:00.005-06:00

What should you cover a confer tree (with needles, evergreen type) that has a brown color where you want to make it look greener.

Given the formulation of the DuraStripe Aerosol Paint I would not apply this material to a living tree, especially one that keeps its needles from year after year. I’m afraid the absorption of the material by the needles would be destructive to the tree.

The Aerosol Chalk product would be a better temporary solution, however we do not make this formulation in a green or turf green color.

What I might suggest is finding an arts and craft or hobby store, Office Max, Office Depot, Staples that sells Tempera paint. This paint can be used on many different surfaces and is removable. It comes in powder or paste. I would dilute the material to a one to one ratio and apply using a pump-up hand sprayer that is used by turf companies.

A bulk latex field marking paint product could also be used for covering the tree with little adverse impact. Also you consider a bulk chalk solution but at this time a green color is not being offered by Tru Mark Athletic Field Marker. You would apply the bulk paint and chalk using a pump-up or airless sprayer after being diluted.

Finally another product solution you might consider is a turf colorant. A turf colorant is typically used on dormant grass during the non-growing and dry seasons. This product is diluted typically to 10-20 to 1 ratio and has a longer duration then traditional turf paint. It can be applied using a pump-up or airless sprayer after dilution.

Trouble Shooting Sports Field Marker Operations--Testimonial

2009-10-22T12:09:00.006-05:00

The simplicity of the 12-volt diaphragm pump technology (Shurflo) and the Tru Mark athletic field marker design leads customers through ample opportunities to to diagnose a problem through a process of elimination.

In a recent series of emails and replacement parts ordered for a Model E-100 walk behind athletic field marker, recently inherited by a youth soccer association volunteer, resulted in the following testimonial.

"Finally solved our problem with the new spray tips. I am sure the other new parts and the thorough cleaning helped, but the improvement in the width of the spray was amazing with the new spray tips. We haven't seen that kind of spray performance in years. Many thanks for all your timely advice and support. I particularly appreciated the promptness of your replies. When we are in the market for a new field liner, we will return to TruMark."

Jack, West River Sports Association
Peru, VT

No Dilution Required Sports Field Marking Paint

2009-10-19T07:49:00.006-05:00

Customers continue to evaluate time versus supply cost savings when selecting products and services for their sports complex operations. Some customers are willing to pay more per applied gallon of field marking to eliminate their paint mixing operations.

A majority of field marking marking paints are formulated to support different dilution ratios to achieve the lowest cost per diluted gallon while ensuring sufficient coverage and brightness.

Some of the field marking equipment requires some amount of paint dilution due to viscosity of the paint and the lower pressure pump technology.

Shipping costs also have an impact on field marking paint selection since avoiding the transport of water which can be added locally and mixed makes since for many customers.

There are more customers looking for convenience and saving time as part of paint mixing operations, in many cases eliminating the need to spend time diluting field marking paint before application.

Tru Mark Athletic Field Marker has been testing a field marking paint formulation that is designed to be ready to use directly from the manufacturer, no additional water required and subsequent paint mixing prior to use.

The SwitchBack Cheap Seats Ready to Use (RTU) formulation is for immediate use. The sports field marking paint has anti-settling agents to minimize the solids from separating from the mixture while stored in 5-gallons pails.

Cheap Seats RTU sports field marking paint is ideal for 12-volt low pressure low volume diaphragm pump technologies that typically operate near the 45 psi range.

Check out some of the images where Cheap Seats RTU, white has been applied to a sports complex football field along with SwitchBack Ground Boss Tiger Orange.

For further information contact Tru Mark Athletic Field Marker, (800) 553-6275, TruMarkAthletic@gmail.com.

Field Marker Testimonial--Model E-100 Line Striper

2009-10-06T15:50:00.007-05:00

A customer for 5 years remarks about his Model E-100 walk-behind 12-volt diaphragm pump field marker. Rob, from Sisters, Oregon recently stated, "We continue to make good use of the striping machine we have, and know the school district still has theirs as well."

As a supplier, manufacturer and distributor, of field marking equipment we continue to request feedback on our equipment and service to improve the customer's field marking operations. Many times we have recognized the need to upgrade our product line through upgrade kits and time saving redesigns of our equipment. Also this customer interaction has helped us increase the number of products we've development as well as the number of turf related products that others manufacture and we resell.

With more and more emphasis and future trends placed on green energy technology we believe the 12-volt diaphragm pump technology (battery recharging operations) in conjunction with our ergonomic design and durable manufacturing parts and processes will thrive in the marketplace for the foreseeable future. This will become even more important as we believe legislative pressure will be applied to reducing the use of aerosol paint can methods in the future, e.g., the German manufacturing industries having to replace the use of aerosol paint applicators for adding safety strips on their floors and equipment (unconfirmed but stated by industry representative).

Excess Equipment -- Snapper Mower Deck, B&S Alternator Flywheel

2009-10-06T15:16:00.007-05:00

It is time to clear some excess inventory we've collected over the last nine months, namely the Snapper 33" HiVAC Mower Deck and the Briggs & Stratton 10 Amp charging system (Flywheel and Stator).

These parts are not used to complete the assembly of the RS-500 and RS-500F Self-propelled Rider Field Markers. The mower deck is removed with all parts intact and shipped as a complete item at approximately 105 pounds. This unit sells new for over $500.

The Briggs and Stratton charging system is upgraded to a 16 Amp charging system on all RS-500 units so the standard 10 Amp charging system is excess to our needs. These parts sell for over $100 new by a distributor. These excess items are being offered through an eBay 7 day on-line auction.

Although only one item is being listed for sale on eBay there are several items available. Please contact us at TruMarkAthletic@gmail.com to purchase either of these items.

Also at this time we are offering a used RS-500F unit that was used for 2 years (4 seasons). The unit has been serviced by ourselves and a Snapper/Briggs&Stratton distributor. If you are interested in this opportunity at half the price of a new unit please send us an email, TruMarkAthletic@gmail.com, for further details.

What's the difference ...natural turf paint vs artificial turf paint?

2009-09-21T07:29:00.003-05:00

Most synthetic turf paints are formulated to stick to the different synthetic turf fibers, e.g., nylon, polypropylene, polyethylene. Also many of these synthetic turf paints are designed to be removed using a special cleaning agent which is formulated for their respective ingredients.

If you use a standard natural turf paint on synthetic turf it will start flaking off as soon as it experiences foot traffic because it doesn’t have the binders/adhesives in the formulation.

Most bulk synthetic turf paints are designed to be applied without dilution whereas most natural turf paints are diluted before application. The synthetic turf paints are normally applied (undiluted) with a high pressure airless sprayer (puts out at least 900 psi at the pump) to help atomize the paint.
http://www.athleticfieldmarker.com/Products/Paint.html#BulkSynthetic

Natural Grass Versus Synthetic Turf Benefits

2009-09-04T11:03:00.008-05:00

SportsTurf Managers Association (STMA) has been doing research and documenting the differences and benefits between natural grass versus synthetic turf sports fields. Some recent publications help communities and sports turf manager tell the story to those that will be paying the bills as well as using the surfaces.

STMA's Natural Turf Benefits Informational Sheet.
"It is becoming more common that high schools and parks and recreation departments are replacing their natural grass playing surfaces with synthetic fields. The reason is often due to the belief that synthetic surfaces are less expensive and easier to maintain than natural surfaces. Synthetic is not an effective replacement if lower maintenance costs are the goal. In addition, it is not a solution to natural grass fields if they are being replaced for aesthetic reasons because they are worn out in the center at the end of the season. The following resource provides a detailed look into the benefits, disadvantages and cost effectiveness of maintaining natural grass fields for recreation."
http://www.stma.org/_files/_items/stma-mr-tab2-3300/docs/naturalgrassfields.pdf

STMA has produced a MS PowerPoint slide presentation that can be modified for an individual facility purpose. This 32 slide presentation puts some of the technical language in layman's terms to help a city council, school board, and booster club understand the whole picture between the debate on natural grass and synthetic turf. The presentation makes some excellent points on environmnetal benefits, participants health benefits, injury, player preferences, construction costs, maintenance costs, and uses a case study illustration.

As Fall sports get under way, it is important to make certain your fields are safe and playable. STMA has put together educational bulletins to help your facility be at its best.

• Football/Soccer Field Safety and Maintenance Checklist
• Baseball/Softball Field Safety and Maintenance Checklist
• Football Practice Techniques that Help to Minimize Field Wear
• 8 Steps to an Easy Field Facelift
• Top 10 Tips on How to Create a Successful Partnership with your Field Provider

When it comes to field marking tips Tru Mark Athletic Field Marker has produced helpful information for a variety of field marking tasks, from a desktop field layout tool (soccer, rugby and lacrosse), laying out field stencils to include the amount of paint needed, items to consider when selecting a field marking unit, and painting strategies.

Raptor Nails-- Engineered Polymer Composite Nails

2009-07-22T20:37:00.005-05:00

Here's a new technology that benefits the sports turf industry and makes for safer field of play. Raptor Nails--Engineered Polymer Composite Nails--are relatively mower and landscaping equipment safe.

They are similar in dimension to a 60 penny nail (6 inches in length and 1/4 inch in diameter) at 1/5th the weight and are not susceptible to corrosion and oxidation.
Manufactured by Utility Composites Intl, Ltd, these nails are UV resistant, and virtually unaffected by chlorine, acids and solvents such as gasoline and oil with about twice the tensile strength of nailed wooden connections.

These nails are a great combination with the multi-colored marking whiskers for helping establish sports field intersections, keeping twine tight when line striping and holding tarps and protective field covers in position as well as custom field and large block letter stencils.

Sport Turf Maintenance Tips for Everyone

2009-07-20T17:01:00.011-05:00

Dr Andrew McNitt discussed the fundamentals of turf grass management for athletic fields as part of the STMA Midwest Regional Conference in Ames, IA, June 24-25, 2009. He related many of his tips to several of the field plots that Dr Dave Minner was conducting at the ISU turf plot area as part of the trade show the previous day.

Here are the ideas that were shared with the conference attendees:

Keep the mower height constant and mow often. Stress in August (less water and a lower height with sports field use) is the worst time to change the mower height.
When removing grass clippings you are removing one third (1/3) of your fertilizer. This is another reason for mowing more often to minimize the thatch.
Fast release fertilizer (urea) is the most effective for healthy turf grass. Light frequent applications that must be calibrated is perferred. Phosphorous is held by the soil so if there is mature grass there should be very little danger of having a phoshorous run-off in to surface water drainage. Dr. Minner's turf plots reflected this recommendation based on the fertilization amounts and the rates of application.
Penn State (Beaver Stadium) turf grass specialist implements a "lean & mean" practice in September by cutting back water and fertilizer. You don't want the grass to lush otherwise you'll increase the damage due to divots from traffic.
Don't skip on the quality of seed. The critical note is to buy the grass seed by weight not by seed count! For example a seed mixture that is 80 percent Kentucky Blue Grass and 20 percent perennial rye grass by seed count will actually be 50/50 by weight. Since Kentucky Blue Grass takes so long to establish the Perennial Rye Grass will just out compete it given this percentage by weight results. Dr McNitt stated for high use areas to seed with perennial rye grass because it quickly establishes itself. He supported Dr Minner's research results in that it far better to reseed at a much higher rate one time then to make repetitive seeding with smaller amounts. Dr Minner's turf plots posted in photo album format reflected these recommendations.
Tall Fesc)ue needs to go through 2 cool seasons (e.g., spring and fall, or fall and spring) to provide a wear resistant capacity.
Consider using good quality compost in your fertilization and seeding process.

Impact of Herbicide on Seed Germination

2009-07-04T08:18:00.003-05:00

Dr. Dave Minner, Iowa State University Turf Grass Extension Educator, performed a field trial to learn the effects of herbicide application (broad leaf control) associated with the seed germination.

This test did not follow recommended label instructions, off-label application, on 5 different products.

He was trying to determine whether there were adverse impacts to seed germination and plant growth.

Dr. Minner is looking for time saving steps to help sports turf managers because of the limited opportunities and time to establish a new seed bed, reseed/overseed areas of turf while still controlling broadleaf weeds.

His findings showed that there were almost no impact to seed germination when herbicide is applied at the time of seeding. Two products showed some impact to seed germination when the herbicide is applied 7 days after seeding. There were no noticeable impacts to the seedings at 14 and 21 days after seeding with herbicide application.

A couple images are shown in a photo album depicting the field trial.

To learn more about Dr Minner's research and field trials check the ISU website.

STMA Custom Stencil Painting Demo

2009-07-03T14:46:00.005-05:00

During the first annual Midwest Regional STMA conference at Iowa State University, Ames, IA two students put on a demonstration of the custom logo field painting process.

The referenced photo album steps you through the process with some explanations of what was being performed and specific guidance to help field operations staff when doing the same operations on their fields.

They reiterated the importance of shaking the aerosol can well before using and storing them upside down to improver their overall performance.

Have a printed image of the custom on hand is helpful to eliminate mistakes before they happen.

Painting a white background will help your other colors standout.

Where possible you should consider using a plant growth regulator (PGR) to eliminate the need to repaint these custom logo as often. Read a related Tru Mark blog entry for more PGR details.

Check out additional field painting strategies that were documented as part of a 2004 STMA conference. Also there are rules of thumb on the amount of paint to use for field painting, especially field logos. Read more answers to frequently asked questions on field stencils, painting, and storing stenicls.

Field Tarp Repair Material and Process

2009-07-03T11:46:00.007-05:00

Tru Mark had the opportunity to repair a Wind Weight Tarp, 26 foot diameter (TAF 3426), for the home plate area. Several holes were discovered during the inspection.

A local tarp and awning company, Norfolk Awning Co., 710 W. Norfolk Ave., Norfolk, NE 68701, (402) 371-0440, Ron Skiff, was consulted on the proper material and procedures to be used. He asked that a sample of the material be provided so he could match the patch material and the correct adhesive cement.

The following is the list of material and process used to repair a Wind Weight Tarp. A photo album is available for tarp repair items used and application process.

Supplies include:

tarp patch material as the same as the tarp,
adhesive cement to match with tarp material,
scissors for trimming the patch material,
roller for creating a uniform pressure across the patch,
flat solid surface, and
cleaning material to include towel(s) and cleaning solution such as Simple Green.

Procedures followed to complete the tarp repair:

access the bottom of the tarp surface,
identify and clean the surface of the tarp with water (and cleaning solution),
create patch (rounded edges),ensure plenty of overlap to the damaged area,
apply adhesive cement to both the tarp and patch(rough side if available),
apply patch and then compress from center to outside edge using a roller if possible, ensure you have the solid flat surface under the tarp so the patch is applied evenly,
let adhesive cure for 15 to 30 minutes,
check workmanship.

Do not limit the amount of adhesive applied to both the tarp and patch. The rolling device will remove excess adhensive when pressure is applied from the center to the edge to the patch.