Equity, Data, and the Future of Sports Facilities

What makes a great playing field—and who gets to decide? In this episode, we dive into the often-overlooked world of sports field management with Dr. Chase Straw, Assistant Professor of Soil and Crop Sciences at Texas A&M. We explore the unequal access to youth sports facilities, the health benefits of participation, and how data and mapping tools can drive more equitable investment. From the environmental tradeoffs of synthetic turf to the pivotal role field managers can play in facility planning, this conversation unpacks how interdisciplinary research and better decision-making can create greener, fairer play for everyone.

Stay Informed with Cornell Turfgrass: For more insights, research-backed strategies, and the latest turf management updates, visit turf.cals.cornell.edu.

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