Action Alert ‼️ Stand Up for Toxic-Free Spaces to Play!
Last Wednesday, December 3rd, a group of us attended the Climate Conservation and Parks Committee meeting in the City Council Chambers. After Dale Bickell gave an overview of Ogren Field and its relationship with the City, Donna Gaukler from Parks and Rec gave a presentation about the pros (and some cons) of replacing the natural grass at the baseball stadium with artificial turf. It seems the City has been in negotiation with Big Sky Baseball and the Paddleheads for quite some time, as the Big Sky Rep also gave a presentation and answered many questions posed by City Council Members (instead of Gaukler). The main point centered around accessibility for (mostly young) athletes during shoulder seasons, as well as the allegedly relative lower level of maintenance (still not really "proven"). Many questions were left open: What evidence did the Paddleheads/turf reps have for their claims about easier maintenance (i.e. snow removal and replacement of worn-out sections of turf). What is Cool Play technology and how does it work? What is "Carbon Catch"? What about the re-usability (as claimed) of turf or the claim that turf is 100% recyclable? The presentation (by the City and Big Sky Baseball) also largely ignored the health hazards presented by artificial turf to athletes and the environment. The claim that the technology has improved in the last two decades does not mean that it is safe. There are too many unknown factors (despite the improvements); knowledge that is still "to be determined."
In general, we need more evidence from the City and from Big Sky Baseball to substantiate their claims of safety and new, improved technology. We need to see Safety Data Sheets, proof of no PFAS/PFOS (as claimed) with testing method and sampling rates. We need proof of no phthalates--again with testing methods and sampling rates. What about the degradation rate of the material over time -- and recharge and refill rate for infill? Where does the runoff go? What about proximity to the Clark Fork? What are the responsibilities and costs of monitoring water, air, and soil on the conditions post construction, and public reporting and transparency of the contamination levels. What are the product specific warranty requirements including coasts of required special maintenance equipment?
Also: The Paddleheads recruited non-profit organizations in Missoula to speak for their generous community support. This is NOT the issue. We all support the Paddleheads and are thankful for their community engagement. We do NOT support installing artificial turf. These are two different issues.
The City Council Committee appreciated our public comment. Thank you to the many who showed up and spoke. There were so many of us who wanted to speak, that we will be given a second chance this coming Wednesday (the 10th). The Committee will be in the Chamber starting at 10:10 until 12:40, but we are the first item on the agenda. Please let us know if you are willing to speak against turf.
When: Wednesday, December 10th, from 10:10- 12:40 pm MST
What: Climate Conservation and Parks Committee
Where: City Council Chambers, 140 W Pine, Missoula MT
Details: We are unsure as to how the meeting will proceed since the City's presentation was last Wednesday. We do know that the public will be allowed to speak (3 minutes per person).
What You Can Do Before the Meeting:
Email or Call City Council and tell them “I support Option A, please vote for natural turf.”
Send email here to the entire City Council
Call (406) 552-6012 to leave a voicemail for the entire City Council
