Weather and the 3G pitch
[Thursday, 06 December 2012 17:43]
A current question being asked by many fans is "at what stage does our new pitch become unplayable?"
The answer firstly is that the pitch is not "all weather" and in some circumstances explained below will not be able to be played on. It goes without saying however that the new pitch will be in use, when similar conditions have not allowed play on the previous grass one.
The most obvious benefit is that the drainage system below the surface will cope with the heaviest sustained downpour. Over the summer during the installation, you will recall the incessant rain we had at times, and we were amazed at how quickly the water disappeared. So no lost games due to a water logged surface will occur.
Snowfall creates a different problem. A light fall can be brushed by our equipment, but deeper snow gives us the same problem whether it be 3G or grass. Snow can be removed by machine or manually, but we also have to consider access roads and terracing clearance, apart from finding a place to put the snow we have removed !
FROST is the main problem and we are on a learning curve on this aspect. Obviously the pitch installers have given us their advice and further to that Bob Charlton and Martin Gray have visited Airdrie United's ground to speak to their groundsman who has looked after exactly the same surface for over three years. This visit has proved to be invaluable as they received hands on advice and continue to be in touch. We have purchased two tonnes of a expensive specialised salt which counteracts the frost and are currently considering as and when it needs to be applied to keep the park playable. Application of the salt on a daily basis for letting of the park and training may not however be financially viable.
Summing up, the pitch is proving to be an asset already, not only to Forfar Athletic, but also to the many boys, girls and adults who now enjoy the facility. We will be working hard over the winter to keep the pitch open for business, and continue to learn the new complexities of 3G pitch maintenance.
