Turf Product Guidance

Use the red-to-green product guidance below to select safer product types by avoiding those in red and preferring yellow and green, which are safer for occupants, fenceline communities, and workers.

When selecting turf for athletic fields or other outdoor recreation spaces:

• Choose natural grass over synthetic turf.
  • Choose grass that is appropriate for the soil conditions and climate, and regularly aerate the field.
  • Transition to a turf management program that reduces the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers and strives to eliminate them.
• If using synthetic turf:
  • Select plant-based or mineral-based infills over synthetic infills. If you must use synthetic infill, avoid using crumb rubber.
  • Avoid using turf or infill that advertise antimicrobial protection.
  • If using a shock pad avoid using in-situ pads or prefabricated pads made with crumb rubber or PVC.
  • Ask your supplier about end of life take back, recycling, or extended manufacturer responsibility programs.