Across the country, cities and schools are making critical decisions about the future of their athletic and recreational fields. Many are considering the installation of artificial turf—often drawn in by promises of low maintenance, all-weather durability, and high usage rates. But there’s a growing concern that community members aren’t being fully informed of the risks and long-term costs associated with synthetic turf fields. If your city or school district is proposing artificial turf, now is the time to speak up—and speak out.

At West Coast Turf, we believe in safe, sustainable playing fields—and we know natural grass is the gold standard when it comes to both health and long-term value. Here’s what every concerned parent, coach, and resident should know about synthetic turf—and why your voice is essential in the decision-making process.

The Hidden Risks of Artificial Turf

While artificial turf may seem like a modern solution, it’s not without serious drawbacks—especially when it comes to safety and health.

1. Extreme Heat

Artificial turf surfaces can reach dangerously high temperatures here in California and Arizona —often 40 to 60 degrees hotter than natural grass under the same sunlight. That means field temperatures can soar above 140°F on sunny days, increasing the risk of heat exhaustion, burns, and dehydration for athletes, especially children.

2. Toxic Exposure

Many artificial turf fields use crumb rubber infill made from ground-up car tires, which may contain heavy metals, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and other potentially harmful chemicals. While research is ongoing, some studies and health professionals have raised concerns about long-term exposure—especially in younger athletes who are more vulnerable to environmental toxins.

3. Injury Concerns

Synthetic turf has been linked to higher rates of certain injuries, including ACL tears, turf burns, and concussions due to the harder, less forgiving surface. For sports like soccer, football, and lacrosse, this can be a serious consideration for player safety.

4. Limited Lifespan and Disposal Issues

Artificial fields typically last 8–10 years before needing replacement. And when they do, disposal presents another problem: millions of pounds of non-biodegradable, contaminated 

Why Speaking Up Matters

Often, decisions about field installations are made at school board or city council meetings—with little to no input from the families, students, and coaches who will be most impacted. That’s why community advocacy is so critical. By attending public meetings, writing letters, organizing petitions, or simply asking questions, you can help ensure your community makes a fully informed choice.

Questions to ask:

• Have alternative, natural grass options been fully explored?
• What safety and environmental impact studies were considered?
• How will the turf be maintained, tested, and eventually disposed of?
• Is there a long-term cost comparison between natural and synthetic fields?

A Natural Solution: Safe, Healthy Grass Fields

Natural grass not only offers a cooler and more forgiving playing surface—it’s also environmentally beneficial, biodegradable, and aesthetically pleasing. Advances in turfgrass varieties and sustainable maintenance practices have made real grass more resilient and cost-effective than ever before.

At West Coast Turf, we’re proud to help California and Arizona communities design and maintain beautiful, high-performance natural grass fields that prioritize safety, health, and environmental responsibility. We support local voices who want to see safer alternatives in place for their children, athletes, and neighborhoods.

Conclusion: Get Involved—Because Your Field Should Be Safe

Decisions about school and city fields aren’t just about convenience—they’re about health, safety, and sustainability. If your community is considering artificial turf, don’t stay silent. Speak up. Ask questions. Demand transparency.

You deserve a say in what your kids play on. Let’s make sure it’s grass.

Take Action Today

Make your voice heard! If your school or city is considering artificial turf, attend the next board meeting, write to local officials, and share this blog with others in your community.

Let them know there’s a safer, more sustainable option—natural grass.

Contact West Coast Turf to learn how we can help you advocate for healthier, cooler, and more environmentally friendly playing fields. Together, we can protect the spaces where our communities play, grow, and thrive.

Artificial turf has had its moment for many homeowners and facility managers looking for a low-maintenance green space. If you’re transitioning back to natural grass proper removal is key. Done incorrectly, artificial turf removal can damage your subsoil, create unnecessary waste, or even become a safety hazard. At West Coast Turf, we’re all about keeping your landscape healthy—from installation to transformation. Here’s how to safely remove artificial turf the right way.

Tools You’ll Need

• Utility knife or turf cutter
• Flat shovel or spade
• Pliers or turf puller
• Wheelbarrow or disposal bags
• Gloves and protective eyewear
• Optional: power sod cutter for large areas

Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Artificial Turf

1. Prep the Area

Clear any furniture, debris, or landscaping elements from the turf. Turn off any irrigation systems and confirm there are no buried cables or lines underneath the turf.

2. Cut into Strips

Using a utility knife or turf cutter, slice the turf into manageable strips—typically 2–4 feet wide. This makes it easier to roll and carry without injury or excessive strain.

Tip: Cut from the backside where the material isn’t as thick.

3. Lift and Roll

Use pliers or a turf puller to grip one end of a strip and begin rolling it up. Try to roll it tightly to save space for disposal. Take your time—older turf can break apart or stick to the ground due to years of compression or melted infill.

4. Remove Infill

If your turf contains rubber or sand infill, it will need to be removed. As you lift the turf, shake off as much infill as possible. For thorough removal, use a shop vacuum or stiff broom to collect remaining particles from the base.

5. Inspect and Clean the Sub-Base

Once the turf is gone, inspect the sub-base. If you plan to install natural sod, you’ll likely need to remove the compacted aggregate and bring in fresh topsoil. West Coast Turf can help you choose the right sod variety and soil amendments for a thriving, natural lawn.

Going Back to Natural?

We applaud your decision to go green (literally). Whether you’re looking for a lush backyard, a sports-ready lawn, or a drought-tolerant sod option, West Coast Turf offers the highest quality natural sod grown locally in California and Arizona.

Let us help you transform your outdoor space with real grass that’s better for the environment, cooler underfoot, and beautiful year-round.

If you’re unsure where to start, or need guidance on choosing the right sod after turf removal, reach out to the pros at West Coast Turf. We’re always ready to roll up our sleeves and help. Visit: westcoastturf.com for more information.