With the lighting for both the softball and baseball fields all set to go, the implementation for field turf surfaces for the rest of the outdoor athletic facilities draws closer and closer by the day.

A field turf surface is something new to ADM after years of utilizing natural grass. The decision to make the switch game after careful planning and consideration from many different parties. ADM activities director Reece Satre told Raccoon Valley Radio that many were in agreement with the turf surface, including some experts in field surfaces.

“We brought in the rep from the field turf surface company as well as a rep from the Iowa Cubs as our expert on natural grass surfaces,” explained Mr. Satre.

Reece also told Raccoon Valley Radio that another big factor in the decision came based on the amount of usage that the surfaces would receive.

“We sat down and dissected the pros and cons while taking into consideration what sports do we play up there and what activities do we wish to offer not just for athletics but also the need to have a nice practice surface for other activities such as marching band. Where we landed was the amount of activity that we wanted to take place up there we would not be able to great a good surface by going with natural grass. Really it was the overall amount of activity taking place,” stated Reece.

Along with the field turf surfaces the track will also be looking at an upgrade as part of phase one.