To the editor:

“Athletes playing on artificial turf were about 1.6 times more likely to injure their ACL compared to playing on grass. Moreover, research indicates that injuries to the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) in the knee occur three times more frequently on artificial turf than on grass. Also a higher rate of foot and ankle injuries.” (Journal of Sports Medicine.)

“Plastic lawns can overheat in hot weather making them unusable. Artificial grass can contribute to global warming by absorbing significantly more radiation than living grass and, to a lesser extent, by displacing living plants that could remove carbon dioxide through photosynthesis.” (The University of Plymouth.)

“An National Football League Players Association survey revealed that 92% of players prefer to play on high-quality grass, 6% percent were indifferent between grass and synthetic turf, and most of the 2% who prefer synthetic turf are kickers. ‘Grass fields have a lower injury rate,’ Spokesman Howell said.” (The Associated Press.)

NFL Players Association said: “specifically, players have a 28% higher rate of non-contact lower extremity injuries when playing on artificial turf. Of those non-contact injuries, players have a 32% higher rate of non-contact knee injuries on turf and a staggering 69% higher rate of non-contact foot/ankle injuries on turf compared to grass.”

“Fifteen of our NFL stadiums have hybrid grass, a combo of natural grass woven with artificial grass. It’s called XtraGrass.” (Sporting News.)

I’m all for sports, of all kinds, but also concerned for the safety of our kids and the environment. I ran track and played softball at an inner city school on real grass. I don’t wish to contradict a coach and athlete but it’s wise to act for the safety and health of our kids.

Wishing everyone good health and safety.

Sincerely,

Jennifer Zahn

Saranac Lake