Frequently Asked Questions

Q Why install synthetic turf at Barker Field? Why not just build a new field?

A Barker Field will continue to be Valley View’s stadium, even if the district has new buildings in the future. Barker’s grass field needs to be restored next year (this is a periodic expense that has always been covered by the Athletic Boosters and other community partners).

Instead of restoring the grass field again, the Boosters are leading a community effort to replace the grass with synthetic turf, which is a better value and safer for student athletes.

Synthetic turf saves money and is a better value than a grass field.

• No pesticides or fertilizer. No mowing or striping. No expensive restorations.
• No watering saves 22,000 gallons of water a year (reducing urban run-off, too).
• Surface guaranteed for 10 years, and should last longer than that.
• It can be used all-weather, year-round.
• Increased revenues from more events

Synthetic turf is safer for student athletes. The instant drainage and uniform surface will provide a much safer environment than that which Barker’s current surface presently offers. Synthetic turf is proving to reduce certain common injuries like ACL knee injuries.

Taxpayers will not be asked to pay more taxes for this project. The Boosters will raise the money for the synthetic turf primarily from businesses and private donors. In addition, instead of spending $10,000 a year maintaining the Barker’s grass field over the next ten years, the district will give an amount equal to $10,000 a year towards the synthetic turf.

Q Why is the School District contributing money to the project?

A The District's contribution ensures that they pay no more, than what they would have going forward, for the basic maintenance of a grass field over the next 10 years

Since it is a fixed amount this option is also less risky for the district, as weather and heavy usage can drive maintenance costs up significantly as seen during the 2006 fall season. When you couple these savings with the opportunity to drive more events to the field, resulting in more revenue, this ends up being a very good deal for the district and the taxpayer.

With no plans to discontinue the use of Barker Field, even if new schools are built, synthetic turf is the best option for all parties: the district, the community, and most importantly, our kids and our guests from other communities.

Q How long does synthetic turf last before it has to be replaced?

A Certainly this depends on many factors. The Motz Group has provided the Boosters with a two-year extension to their 8-year performance warranty. With proper care and maintenance the 24/7 Artificial Turf System will last well beyond the 10-year warranty period.

Q What about maintenance?

A There’s very little to do to maintain a synthetic turf surface — the main thing is regular brushing to keep dirt and leaves off, and to “re-settle” the infill. This will be done, on average, once per week, and takes half the time that mowing does. The costs involved are a fraction compared to the maintenance required for natural grass surfaces. Over the past 5 years, the expense incurred to maintain the current grass field by the Boosters and the Lions Club alone has been $96,000. These are expenses OVER AND ABOVE what the district has paid to maintain the field.

Q Will my taxes go up?

A No. The majority of project money is coming from private companies, individuals, and the Booster Club. The School District contribution (which is obviously funded from tax dollars) is money that would be budgeted for continued maintenance of the field. Their total contribution is considerably less than what would have been necessary to maintain the natural grass.

Q What are some of the advantages of installing field turf?

A This is just a small list. See Turf Facts in the column on the left.

• Host unlimited field events.
• Research has shown that one synthetic turf field can provide the same play capacity as up to six grass fields.
• Turf fields greatly increase available scheduling options and flexibility of field use, permitting maximum participation for our student-athletes.
• The rapid drainage qualities and consistent playing surface of turf fields provides for safe year-round use in all types of weather.
• Turf fields greatly reduce maintenance costs and provide a uniform, professional appearance for extended periods of time.
• • Results achieved in other communities have shown that improved athletic facilities result in greater attendance, gate receipts, and concession sales, further boosting the return on investment.
• State-of-the-art athletic facilities enhance community spirit, attract new residents and maintain attractive property values for area residents.

Q When will the field be ready?

A Construction on the field is scheduled to begin as soon as the ground thaws sufficiently. If the weather cooperates, the total time it takes to complete the project will be between 8-9 weeks. Given that the fall sports season does not start until August, there is plenty of time available to complete the project prior to the 2007 sports season.

Q How can I help?

A You can help by becoming a volunteer, sending in a donation, or both!

There are two ways to make a donation:

• Multi-Year Pledges — Platinum, Blue, and White, donation levels will be forever enshrined on the Wall of Pride at Barker Stadium. Deadline to have your business or individual name engraved on the Wall of Pride plaque is April 30, 2007. Also those custom contributors who donate at least $1,000 in 2007 will also adorn the Wall of Pride. Download the Multi-Year Pledge Form
• One-Time Contribution — Every little bit helps! Download the Contribution Form