Dear Editor:I spoke at the [school] board meeting on November 23 about the Board of Education’s proposal to install synthetic turf in the Pit at Livingston High School. I represented the students of Livingston that are advocating against this proposal. Beyond speaking, me and my colleagues created a petition to educate the students of Livingston High School and gain support for our cause.Astro-Turf is a synthetic alternative to grass and is used for areas designated for sports games. It has a carpet made out of polyester tire cord as the base and the blades of “grass” are made of nylon or polypropylene. Astro-Turf is extremely environmentally harmful, made of materials that are poisonous to the soil and water. Synthetic turf is also notably unhealthy and unsafe for athletes.Synthetic turf absorbs and reflects heat, making a hot day even hotter, and it is much easier for players to lose their footing and hurt themselves on Astro-Turf.It is also important to note that Astro-Turf is very expensive to install compared to other sports field surfaces. Maintenance costs are also higher than that of natural fields.The evidence is staggering, an Astro-Turf field is not the addition the sports community of Livingston is looking for. It is not the right fit for our school, our students, our community, or our planet.I hope you can help the students of Livingston High School keep our school safer, and greener,Keith Covan-Rodriguez 17 Dogwood Terrace ...
