Tru Mark's Trail Blazing Blog

Tchoukball -- Non-contact Team Sport for PE Classes and Intramural Programs Coming to a School Near You

2012-02-02T09:04:00.008-06:00

Tchoukball, a Swedish originated sport is now being introduced into junior and senior high school physical education programs. This non-contact sport encourages teamwork. An AthleticBusiness.com report on The Columbus Dispatch article, "Fast, Friendly Fun" by Jeffrey Sheban states, "Tchoukball (“CHOOK-ball”) is equal parts physical fitness and social engineering, with an emphasis on sportsmanship and problem-solving." The author shares that "Because of the ban on physical contact and overt intimidation, tchoukball is an ideal coed sport."

There is a US Tchoukball Association that has been modeled after the Fédération Internationale de Tchoukball international organization where you can learn more about this sport that is sure to gain acceptance in the US.

A video provides a better understanding of the fast pace nature of the Tchoukball game. It is interesting to watch the techniques used by players to throw the ball off the rebound/spring loaded net to prevent the opponent from catching the rebound. Leaning how to play Tchoukball can be done very quickly.

A detailed description of the rules of the Tchoukball game is available form the FITB organization website (PDF).

For a quick method to help layout out a Tchoukball playing area we would recommend using the Ultimate Frisbee Field Layout Tool to achieve squared corners no matter the space available.

This sport lends itself to an extracurricular school program as well as YMCA and other youth sponsor activities to increase physical fitness and teamwork. There are similarities to Ultimate while not allowing physical contact or player "challenges".

For hard floor marking tape you should consider 3M Vinyl Tape 471. Contact Tru Mark for pricing and color availability. For outdoor use you can use temporary marking solutions like Aerosol Chalk or Bulk Chalk (diluted with water and applied with airless sprayer) or more permanent field marking paint just as Aerosol Paint and Bulk Latex Paint.

Ultimate Frisbee Field Layout Tool Converted to Meter Calculations

2012-01-23T08:46:00.010-06:00

A recent visitor to our Ultimate Frisbee field layout tool website recognized the need to convert the tool from a feet and inches MS Excel spreadsheet template into a meters calculating tool.

Now when requesting a copy of the Ultimate field layout tool you will have access to both versions of the tool, no charge.

The layout tool is designed to use three common points (both ends of the field (center line) and the center of the field) to calculate the intersection points that are then located on on the field using two tape measures. Walking to the intersection distances specified by the layout tool guarantees a square field no matter what dimensions you start with.

Thanks to Hans Kerns from Nederlandse Frisbee Bond for updating the spreadsheet to use meters versus feet and inches.

We would like to see the Soccer, Rugby, and Lacrosse field layout tools converted to meter calculations. Any help would be appreciated and your efforts will be acknowledged (if desired).

Backpack Tool for Repairing Sports Field Divots--DivotPack

2012-01-21T09:10:00.002-06:00

How do effectively repair divots on sports turf fields following events? Please consider the DivotPack for filling those divots and getting grass to grow again.

It is always interesting to visit trade shows to learn about new products being introduced to the sports turf industry. Many times products that are introduced into the golf industry can also be used in the sports turf industry. I found the DivotPack is a good example when I attended the 2012 Iowa Sports Turf Managers Association conference in conjunction with the golf, lawn care, and park and recreation groups in Des Moines, IA.

Katie Schwegman, Founder/President, DivotPack, was on hand to demonstrate her latest invention. The rugged yet light weight unit features a well made shoulder harness with a midsection belt clip. The divot mix is added to the top of DivotPack after opening the top flap that more than protects the contents as well as prevents spillage. The ingenious dispensing spray handle (patent pending) allows the operator to regulate the amount of divot mix to apply. Katie has done an excellent job of incorporating ergonomic principles into the design, using USA products, and having it manufactured in the USA.

Here are a few of the DivotPack Features:

Easy-to-use handheld control valve
Lightweight, durable, UV, water and tear-resistant backpack
2.5 inch-wide adjustable shoulder straps
3 inch wide adjustable waist belt
Three-gallon tank capacity
Bag dimensions: 14.5 in x 11.5 in x 6 in
Check out more images of the DivotPack

From a sports turf managers perspective this is a time and fatigue saving tool that can be operated by any staff member. By adding grass seed into the divot mix the turf manager has a much better chance of filling the divots and providing a safer playing surface for athletes.

To minimize the "wart" looking effect of the divot mix application a sports turf manager might also consider using a Shurflo battery operated backpack sprayer to apply a turf colorant and micro nutrients. With irrigation the "wart" looking divot will quickly be covered with new growth and the root zone reestablished for better footing.

How to Design a Soccer Field?

2011-12-12T09:18:00.013-06:00

A recent exchange covered helping out a middle school that is designing a soccer field and what should be turned over to the customer after the project is completed. The series of questions didn't include irrigation operations.

"We are designing a middle school landscape with a turf grass soccer field, and think we should mark the field when turning over the project to the school district. What are the various material options for marking a soccer field? Do you have a comparison chart of the various approaches giving various attributes? Which options are most permanent? Should we have the contractor turn any materials over the athletic director upon completion of the project? Anything else you think I should know?"

Before we can answer most of your questions we'll pose a couple of my own to help clarify the project and the customer’s use of the facility.

How much space do you have outside of the touch lines? The reason I ask is there any requirement to easily relocate goals so as to not to wear out the field in the typical high wear areas? It helps to be able to move goals over 20-30 feet for each season or rotate the field. Will the program plan to use the field for small sized games and practices, in other words have fields marked within fields?

"It’s only one field and it’s a pretty tight site plan. So there won’t be any rotating possible. We will probably spec RTF fescue sod, which seems to hold up a bit better than Kentucky Bluegrass blends." I agree the fescue will be a better for turf wear and will tolerate drier weather conditions. It may not look as green but will perform better.

At the minimum I would have permanent line anchors for the 4 primary corners of the field. These anchors should be easily found from one season to the next. We offer several different solutions. We offer corrosion resistant metal anchors so they can be found with a magnet or you can use a whisker plug to help locate the intersections.
http://www.athleticfieldmarker.com/products/anchors.html

Many of our customers will use the marking whiskers to identify all the intersections beyond the four primary corners, e.g., midline, midpoint, four corners of the goalie and penalty boxes, and penalty kick spot. What is nice about the marking whiskers is you can use different colors for the different sized fields.
http://www.athleticfieldmarker.com/products/marking-whiskers.html

We will gladly provide you with our soccer field layout tool (Microsoft Excel template) that will calculate on the intersections no matter the dimensions. Please let us know if you would like access to this tool. The customer may like this to setup for all the small sized fields as well.
http://www.athleticfieldmarker.com/soccerfield/

Other than FIFA and NCCA rules on field size there are no set standards on field size, just recommended ranges in sizes based on facility limitations and small sided matches. Your layout right now looks appropriate and should satisfy the ranges for size. If the state high school or district/regional youth soccer associations have recommendations I would review that information.

Our field layout tool allows you to do “what-if” drills on size, e.g., width and depth of goalie and penalty boxes. You can go out to the facility to do a quick visual layout and use some type of marker stake/cone or marking whiskers and then walk the playing surface to confirm it is reasonable.

For line striping the customer will need a spool/string winder of string/braided twine and stakes. There are a lot of alternatives. We would recommend 1500’ of sting on one string winder or two string winders with 600’ each.
http://www.athleticfieldmarker.com/products/string-winders.html

The customer will need a means to paint the lines of the field. You have aerosol paints with an inexpensive line striper. This may work best if the customer is only worried about one field. If there multiple fields then a bulk latex painting option may be more appropriate using an airless line striper. We have several options here as well.
http://www.athleticfieldmarker.com/products/walk-behind-striper.html
http://www.athleticfieldmarker.com/products/paint.html

For paint usage I’m going to refer you to our website for some additional information.
http://www.athleticfieldmarker.com/faq
http://www.athleticfieldmarker.com/faq#faq-paint-usage
http://www.athleticfieldmarker.com/faq#faq-aerosol-cans

I would make the contractor mark and stripe the field for the first time use and then turn over the equipment to the customer. This will allow the customer to actively watch, ask questions about what is happening, how the equipment works and what to look for if there are problems.

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Multipurpose Indoor Facilities on the Rise

2011-12-03T10:50:00.013-06:00

Over the past couple of years we have received numerous calls from facility/recreation/athletic managers trying to increase the value of their indoor recreation/sports facilities. One method is to put field marking lines on synthetic turf fields that are temporary and removable after extended use.

This type of facility is becoming a trend across the USA especially for communities in the cooler winter regions where activities move indoors. One company that has been expanding its presence is the Total Fitness Connection Three Springs operations which includes collaboration with sports academies such as the Doyle Academy for Baseball and Softball. Todd Stinson, Athletics Supervisor, now has 19,000 square feet of synthetic turf playing surface so he can accommodate a multitude of different activities from after school programs, skill development training to league play.

Todd did an extensive search for the surface to meet the multiple requirements he faced. He settled on a 32 ounce pile surface that doesn't use any infield material yet includes an one inch pad to improve the impact absorption. For an indoor facility and the participants he decided against an infield solution, primarily due the tracking problem from static electricity causing the collection of crumb rubber and/or sand on participants. He decided against sewn in lines so he'll use a temporary/removable field marking paint solution so that increases the flexibility of the activities supported throughout the year.

The Three Springs facility will use the Tru Mark TrailBlazer Season Ticket removable field marking paint for synthetic turf application. Todd decided that he wanted lining solution that would cover a season long use yet could be removed without the ghosting effect. His plan is to tape or pull a string and then cover the turf using a traditional 1/4" thick nap paint roller. This will provide even coverage without adding a significant amount of material to the turf. He was not worried about using manual labor to complete the project versus using an airless paint striper such as the Titan Speeflow Powrliner 850.

The Bowling Green, KY is centrally located where there trade area is similar to Norfolk, NE. Many people travel many miles to get access to indoor facilities. For example many families will commute up to 2 hours to Omaha and Lincoln to participate in sport camps and leagues, many of them conducted indoors. With the increasing transportation cost and our busy schedules more communities will be making the investment to host activities in multipurpose facilities.

For example, an existing structure such as the Norfolk City Auditorium which is experiencing the transfer of city staff offices to another facility could be a future site. The basketball floor which has been home to community college basketball games up through the 80s and a local high school into the early 2000s, and now support city and YMCA recreation programs. The City has put in a new guaranteed roof and boiler in the last 8 years to extend the use of the facility for many years into the future. This could be an excellent public/private venture opportunity for the community, similar to the Barnstomers of Nebraska Airport Restaurant and Lounge hosted in the former Karl Stefan Memorial Airport passenger terminal which will be an attraction as part of the Nebraska Airfest 2012 event being held in conjunction with the Great American Comedy Festival, June 13-17, 2012.

Tru Mark Titan Paint Shoe Assembly Accessory

2011-11-24T09:35:00.012-06:00

Innovation, problem solving, and customer service are the three legs of the business ethos for Tru Mark Athletic Field Marker.

The lasted innovation that solves a line marking problem is the Tru Mark Titan Paint Shoe Assembly Accessory. It is designed with the Tru Mark Terrain Following Paint Shield technology not matter the condition of the sports turf field. The terrain following paint shield technology was first used on the Tru Mark first production walk-behind Model E-100 field marker, then integrated into the RS-500 self-propelled riding field markers, and more recently the Model EZ-70 12-volt sealed battery operated walk-behind field marker.

The Titan Paint Shoe Assembly is an accessory configured to be mounted on the Titan Speeflo Powrliner 850 and 2850 line stripers. The assembly uses a separate Titan handle bar lever and cable assembly that are already available as part of the spray gun operations. The handle bar lever is attached to the left hand handlebar assembly and cable routed in the same fashion as the spray gun control cable assembly. The paint guards are designed to be adjusted from 2 to 10 inch widths.

Check out the a series of images in a Tru Mark Titan Paint Shoe Assembly photo album.

Tru Mark Titan Paint Shoe Assembly is mounted on the Titan fixed square tub bracket with the handle bar cable assembly connected to Paint Shoe Guard lifting rod assembly. This allows the lifting of the Paint Shoe Guards off the terrain when making turns and completing a paint line using the handle bar control level. This eliminates the double parallel lines generated by fixed paint shields as a result of the over spray.

The height of the Paint Shoe Guards ensure minimal spray drift problems yet allow easy access to Titan spray gun adjustments and operations.

Lifting rod assembly is long enough to support wide area marking, up to 10 inches wide . The locking set collars on the Paint Shoe Guards are tighten in place using a brass tipped set screws to maintain placement without damaging the lifting rod. The Paint Shoe Guards can be rotated out of the way when conditions dictate without interfering with spray gun operations.

Tru Mark RS-500 Engine Winterizing Process

2011-11-22T06:26:00.008-06:00

Tru Mark's self-propelled riding RS-500 model field markers utilize the Briggs & Stratton Intek overhead valve technology with electric start. The current RS-500 models use the B&S model 31G777-0297-B1 engine, a 17.5 HP unit.

Tru Mark rotates the engine on the chassis so the muffler exhaust exits the rear of the unit versus the side and the charger system has been upgraded to a 16 ampere charging system to support the two 12-volt diaphragm pumps. A specialized muffler guard has been added to ensure a safe barrier. The B&S gas, air, and oil filters are still easily accessible on the chassis with the swing out paint tank brackets.

When it comes to winterizing the unit we recommend following the Briggs and Stratton procedures as shown in the video.

Engine Winterizing Process (5:34 min.)

For references purposes please use the B&S 17.5 Operator's Manual-English (PDF).

For more detail parts lisitng check the B&S 17.5 Illustrated Parts List-English (PDF).

Turf Stake Plus to Hold String Line for Stake All

2011-11-20T06:55:00.009-06:00

How to hold a line marking string in place while using an existing sports field ground anchor?

Tru Mark continues to find innovative yet simple solutions to common field marking problems. Sports field marking staff need to string a line to support painting the boundary and internal lines. How to effectively hold the string line in place, especially when there is a ground anchor already in place, can be greater challenge than expected.

Since Tru Mark started of marketing the Stake All integrated marking whisker and hard plastic stake there was an opportunity to integrate a mechanism to hold string line. Tru Mark already developed a low cost multipurpose Tru Mark Turf Stake from a 1/4 inch fiberglass rod and plastic hose handle.

Now by introducing a slightly smaller 1/2 inch outside diameter hose section with a 1/4 inch internal diameter the Tru Mark Turf Stake Plus provides a secure holder for string line. A small groove has also been etched into the 1/4 inch fiberglass stake to help hold the string in place during tightening operations. Picture shows for 4 Tru Mark Turf Stake Plus items with one inserted into the Stake All.

Tru Mark now offers both a steel and plastic sports field marking anchor solutions that has marking whisker identification features as well as capability to hold string line for field painting operations.

As a volunteer sports field line painter I continue to look at how we can enhance products for sports field marking operations while saving time and money. The Tru Mark Turf Stake Plus in another one of those stories.

Multi-purpose Cable Tightening Kit for Sandbag Ballast

2011-11-18T20:00:00.008-06:00

How do maximize the effectiveness of a sandbag around a canopy leg while sitting on a solid surface?

Tru Mark has designed a traditional cable tightening and tie down kit to hold a sandbag in a vertical position with maximum tension on a fixed object above the sandbag. This is especially important when holding a tent canopy in place during winding conditions while on a solid surface. The adjustable tie down kit can be used for holding paintball bunkers/barriers and inflatable games in place for indoor activities as well as increasing the ballast efficiency on pedestals and trade floor displays.

The cable tightening and tie down kit includes approximately 5 feet of 3/16 inch parachute cord, threaded through a wood dowel with two lightweight carabiners and a cord loop for attaching to a fixed object. The wood dowel acts as the tightening lever on the parachute cord while one carabiner is attached to the sandbag and the other carabiner is attached to the loop cord that has been connected to the fixed object.

A picture album shows how the cable tightening kit is installed.

The Cable Tightening and Tie Down Kit is sold as a set of 4. The kit is designed to support the standard 6 inch nylon handle that is constructed in all Tru Mark Sandbags, whether it is the 10#, 15+# (double wide), 20#, 35# (double wide), 45# (long), and 55# sandbags. Custom length parachute cords can be order.

15 Pound Plus Sandbag for Canopies, Pedestals

2011-11-17T16:34:00.004-06:00

Tru Mark Athletic Field Marker has come out with their latest sandbag innovation, the 15 Pound Plus Sandbag. This is the smaller version of the Tru Mark 35 pound sandbag with an added Velcro strap to hold the sandbag upright and around a canopy leg or similar vertical pole equipment item. Check out more photo album images of this multi-purpose 15 Pound Plus Sandbag.

The 15 Plus sandbag holds 15 plus pounds of sand ballast in two inner bag inserts that are closed by wire tie, cable tie, or folded over for preventing spillage and then closed off using the sandbag's Velcro closure. It comes with a 6" nylon webbed hand strap for carrying as well as securing to a cable/rope to increasing the ballast capability, especially for open air canopies. The 15 Plus double pocket sandbag is sized 13 inches wide by 16 inches tall plus 6 inches for the nylon hand strap. The 15 Plus is initially be offered in black and depending on demand in red. Contact Tru Mark for a price quote and lead time on custom colors.

As with all smaller Tru Mark Sandbags and their nylon strap they make excellent ballast bags for inflatables whether for paintball barriers, playgrounds, advertizing and holiday displays.

Youth Sports Fund Raising and Publishing

2011-11-11T09:22:00.004-06:00

Tru Mark returned from the Nebraska State Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (NSIAA) Fall Convention in Kearney, NE where personnel were introduced to a number of new products and services.

Fund raising is always a challenge for youth sports programs, whether for high school programs or youth sports associations. With the internet, image and video capture and editing capabilities, selling of advertising, and blogging tools a new offering is being promoted by Big Teams, Warrenton, VA 20186.

This new website based service helps sports supporters, whether students, coaches, administrator, and parents incorporate relevant content into the website to include images and videos. The company then helps youth organizational sponsors solicit advertising by helping post the advertisers information to include images and text for banner type ads.

The website becomes a communications portal for a variety of purposes, such as text messaging alerts when participants opt-in, allowing the posting of material from smartphones, collecting monies for photo sales and an on-line store.

According to the staff member this product has been under development for 8 years while continuing to incorporate new capabilities. Pricing is determined by the number of students/participants involved and whether advertising is going to be allowed. For a small school, less than 700 students, the initial setup cost is $100 plus a $25.00 per month hosting fee. The company receives a small percentage of any advertising that is posted on the site which the company implements on the website while working with the advertiser.

For schools that produce a yearbook and newsletters/newspapers this tool can be part of the overall process of capturing stories and images while the student publishers worry about the editing and layout for the physical/digital product. This can go along way to help student develop team building, collaboration, networking, critical thinking, creative and problem solving skills.

Do you have a tool that is worthy of mention on the Tru Mark blog? Please send details and we'll attempt to get the information posted. Examples of tools that have beneficial include the different desktop field layout tools, soccer, lacrosse, rugby, ultimate frisbee. Looking for additional field marking tips then check out our FAQ webpage.

Minimizing Sudden Cardiac Death in Youth Sports

2011-11-08T17:40:00.002-06:00

Tru Mark returned from the Nebraska State Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (NSIAA) Fall Convention in Kearney, NE where personnel were introduced to a number of new products and services.

Doug Adams from Screening America, Sioux Falls, SD, discussed a new service his company is offering to try and reduce the number of sudden cardiac death, or what many say is caused by hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Media reports continue to highlight this health issue associated with youth sports.

The company's concept is to schedule screenings at local venues such as schools, churches, and community activity centers, to conduct a typical protocol done which in the past completed in a heart specialist's office. In an office setting technicians hook up the participant with monitoring equipment. Now a Screening America team of technicians come out to the local venue and collects the health data electronically directly from the patient. Once the data is collected it is then forwarded to a certified cardiologist for a reading and an initial valuation. The participate is notified with the test results and if necessary recommended to follow-up with a provider for further consultation.

The company is looking for cardiologists, especially in the Nebraska region, to conduct the reading and initial valuations.

They are looking for a minimum of 15 participants to schedule local screenings and they are currently offering a "full" screening for $79.00. Doug mentioned that communities, especially with several schools in the near vicinity are working together to host the screenings.

There are several different economic and health trends that are being introduced by this firm that will likely start showing up in other sports health areas. With the health equipment becoming smaller and the data digitally recorded more and more services are being offered in mobile settings versus a fixed infrastructure setting. Also once the data has been collected it can be delivered to almost any location that is connected by the internet. This allows doctors and medical technicians to provide more services for patients that are not in their facility. Also more services can be provided to more customers without large equipment and facility investments.

Soccer Field Marking Contract Bid Information

2011-11-05T09:34:00.003-05:00

A landscaping company is preparing a contract bid to mark soccer fields in their local community. Using our past experience we offered them the following information.

This is what Tru Mark knows that will help provide an appropriate response.
- 2400 yards of 4"line = 7200 linear feet
- 4 soccer fields
- 9 month playing season

Given this information here are some rules of thumb I like to use.
- 300 linear feet per diluted gallon of paint
- Weekly field striping with irrigation and regular mowing. You may be able to do less striping if you use a plant growth regulator like Embark or PrimoMax applying every fourth week (1/2 to 1 ounce per gallon of diluted paint (NO overlapping)

If you locate a local paint distributor in your area they will likely offer a bulk latex formulation that will be diluted 1:1 (One 5-gallon pail produces 10 gallons of diluted paint). These paint formulations are going to run around $40-$50 per pail, possibly less with bulk order (pallet quantity). A better quality paint such as our SwitchBack Ground Boss field marking paint formulation will achieve good coverage on a 2 or even 3 to 1 dilution ratio. (This can very if the grass is really growing with a lot of mowing and irrigation.) This product is currently $64.50 per pail (not delivered, so you should add probably $12.00 per pail). One pallet 24 5-gallon pails is going to be about $1,836.00 delivered.
http://www.athleticfieldmarker.com/products/paint.html
http://www.athleticfieldmarker.com/products/paint/switchback-ground-boss-natural-turf-white-5-gallons-24-pails.html

7200 linear feet per week/300 linear feet per diluted gallon/3 (2:1 dilution ratio) = 8 gallons of paint per week (for 4 fields) x 36 weeks = 288 gallons / 5 gallons per pail = 58 pails per 9 months

Now for field marking equipment.
- We can offer two different technologies, airless 12-volt battery operation diaphragm pump technology and gasoline powered airless compressor, both in walk behind units for increase accuracy.
- The Model E-100 walk-behind field marker uses a Group 24 deep cycle marine battery supplied the customer ($85.00) that will more than support striping 4 soccer fields with one battery charge.This unit is going to run about $100-200 a year in replacement parts (primarily tips, pump parts (value kit), or a Field Kit). Plan on initial purchase cost Field Kit, battery, and delivery of $1,900.00.
http://www.athleticfieldmarker.com/products/walk-behind-striper/tru-mark-model-e-100-athletic-field-marker.html
- The Titan Speeflo 850 walk-behind gasoline powered field marker provides more versatility where the unit can apply diluted as well as undiluted paints (for synthetic turf and pavement striping). We are currently prototyping a paint shoe assembly similar to the Model E-100 that guarantees a uniform and crisp line no matter the terrain. This new accessory is likely going to cost in the $170.00 range. This unit will likely run $200-400 in replacement parts (primarily tips and pump rebuild). Expect delivery cost near $1,900.00.
http://www.athleticfieldmarker.com/products/walk-behind-striper/titan-powrliner-850.html

Personally I think the key cost driver is how often do they expect you to mark the fields (man-hours). We have soccer association volunteer customers that can stripe a full sized soccer field in 20 minutes. However, the paint is already mixed and brought to a quick reload location. You'll have a 10-20 minute clean/rinse process after each striping operation, no matter which machine you choose. If manpower is an issue and access to water is a problem then you might consider our SwitchBack Cheap Seats Ready-to-Use (RTU) field marking paint formulation, open the pail, remix if necessary, and start striping.

The other thing, whose is responsible for field lay out, staking and stringing the field? Many organizations will move the fields around to reduce wear in front of goals. Our desktop soccer field layout tool will drastically reduce your layout and staking time. You should be able to layout a field in 20 minutes or less using only one person. Our different marking whisker solutions allow you to find field intersections very quickly, especially if you have to pull string on a regular basis (check out our Tru Mark string winders which will save time onsite using a cordless drill).

Let us know if you would like a copy of this Soccer Field Layout Tool MS Excel spreadsheet template.

Rental Revenue from Youth League Turf Fields

2011-11-01T10:20:00.005-05:00

More and more youth sports associations and sponsors are installing synthetic turf fields. With the large initial investment these organizations are looking at options to rent the facilities to organization sponsoring other sporting events. Here's a recent request for information.

"I am on the BoD of a youth football league and we recently completed the construction of two synthetic fields. We've had rental inquires and I'm trying to figure out how to stripe the fields for other sports and which colors to use. These layouts (Tru Mark's Soccer, Lacrosse, Rugby, and Ultimate Frisbee Field Layout Tools) will be a huge assistance. I'd also welcome any advice on the standard color for soccer vs. boys LAX vs. girls LAX vs. Flag football."

I’ve seen several different color combinations on synthetic turf fields. While most fields have the white lines sewn in for football, I’ve also witnessed yellow for soccer (our local field used black), and red for lacrosse. Flag football typically shortens the field using cones and marking yard lines using foam or plastic triangle standing sideline numbers.

The real key is what type of field marking products to use and who has responsibility for applying and cleaning/removing lines.
http://www.athleticfieldmarker.com/products/paint.html

Here are a couple related posts that may be helpful.
http://trumark.blogspot.com/2011/10/aerosol-chalk-versus-aerosol-paint.html
http://trumark.blogspot.com/2011/08/synthetic-turf-trends-minimizing-static.html
http://trumark.blogspot.com/2011/08/movable-soccer-goal-safety-act-enacted.html
http://trumark.blogspot.com/2011/05/looking-for-removable-field-paints-for.html
http://trumark.blogspot.com/2011/02/how-many-cans-of-spray-paint-to-line.html
http://trumark.blogspot.com/2010/11/synthetic-sports-turf-fields-temporary.html

We’ve had numerous customers comment on the success of using the Aerosol Chalk for temporary line marking which requires no special cleaning agents nor much “elbow grease”. This material is similar in performance to a traditional powdered chalk but without the thickness buildup.

We offer bulk liquid chalk, currently only in white, SwitchBack Double Play Liquid Chalk, that is applied with an airless paint striper and performs like a traditional powdered chalk (diluted 1 to 1, water to chalk). We hope to offer this in yellow, blue/black in the near future. No special cleaning agent is needed to remove, only foot traffic/broom and water.

Both the aerosol and bulk chalk solutions are designed for one time or tournament (with touch-up) play.

Also there is removable turf paint, TrailBlazer Rally Day and Season Ticket, that is applied with an airless line striper (at least 900 psi pump performance) and is not diluted. This paint can be removed using a cleaning agent such as the Trail Wash or Solar Wash. These paints are designed for up to a season long use.

We also offer a permanent field marking paint, TrailBlazer Solar Trail, that can be removed using the Solar Wash product.

The board might want to try using the aerosol chalk product first to confirm performance. We can offer a mixed case of colors at the colored case price.

Indoor Soccer Turf Field with Rubber In-fill

2011-10-17T17:23:00.004-05:00

Aerosol Chalk Versus Aerosol Paint

2011-10-12T13:53:00.006-05:00

The following questions were asked concerning the use of aerosol chalk. The image to the left is a scuff test on synthetic turf.

"I’m writing to find out some additional information on the aerosol chalk product. I noticed that there is aerosol paint and aerosol chalk so I can only assume these are different products. Is the chalk substance truly like a standard chalk material used to line fields? I ask because there are certain applications that we’d like to use it for our youth organization but I’m very hesitant to use if by spraying it, it actually discolors the dirt. However, with it being chalk, it would be a much finer material. Please confirm. Also, what is the spray expectancy of 1 can? 100’? 200’?"

Here's the response that clarifies differences and similarities to aerosol paint.

Yes aerosol chalk is a different product than aerosol paint, yet priced similarly.

The aerosol chalk is applied using the same tools or by hand similar to aerosol paint. The application is a traditional T-tip for upside use.

Once applied the aerosol chalk performs similar to traditional dry powdered chalk. Applying it to the skinned area of an infield should be done after the area has been wetted down otherwise you’re going to cause a lot of dissipation and dust from the propellant. The aerosol chalk application will be a much thinner than the dry powder chalk.

The aerosol chalk, 20 ounce can with 18 ounces of material, will typically cover about 200 linear feet, possible more or less depending on the pace. As with aerosol paint, aerosol chalk is sold 12 cans per case. Tru Mark will support a mixed case of different colors.

There should be no discoloration other than what you would find with a build-up of chalk in a specific area or along a line. Foot traffic and water will quickly dissipate the dried chalk.

Tru Mark also offers the SwitchBack Double Play liquid chalk solution that is applied with similar equipment as bulk latex field marking paint. Both the aerosol and liquid chalk have similar performance characteristics once they dries, mainly no special cleaning agents to remove, just foot traffic or a broom and water.

http://www.athleticfieldmarker.com/products/paint.html

Custom Stencil Used to Help with Parking and School Spirit

2011-10-12T12:11:00.011-05:00

A community service project supports a school district with parking directions and school spirit as well as leaving a legacy, both visually and through ownership.

Tru Mark Athletic Field Marker was contacted to produce a custom stencil that would be used in painting a horse shoe logo on the pavement areas surrounding four school complexes in the Olive Branch School District, Olive Branch, MS.

Raina Hanna helped get this project off the ground and collaborated with volunteers, school officials, and suppliers to pull off the pavement painting event over a fall school break, Monday, October 10, 2011. She posted images of the proposed logo locations.

The event was covered by a Memphis, TN media outlet with an article that shared interviews and a picture of one of the 100 horse shoe painted logos.

Check out some of the other Tru Mark custom stencil images that helped support customer sport facility requirements.

http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2011/oct/12/mustang-fans-trot-in-paint-pathway/

http://www.commercialappeal.com/photos/2011/oct/11/246658/

http://www.facebook.com/groups/186133594789448/photos/

High School Sports Fund Raising Trends

2011-10-12T10:29:00.004-05:00

Most if not all high school sports programs are struggling to achieve successful programs through many different fund raising activities. Two recent local media news reports cover related topics.

A couple high schools have banned streaming video at their football games. Besides the possible loss of revenue they also indicate that opposing teams will be able to more easily scout them. This was even with the firm sharing in the revenue. Many of the nearby teams don't seem to share in the boycott. A local Norfolk, NE media outlet started covering three local football teams that play on the same city owned field which was recently renovated with a synthetic turf play surface. They hope to carry winter sports programs as well from the local area high school gym/sports facilities.

Sports booster clubs and school districts are raising moneys through more elaborate sponsorship programs. Learn more about how sponsorship programs are bringing in funds to support high school activities.

Please share the fund raising activities that have helped your schools, school districts and youth sports programs. Tru Mark will post them for others to consider.

SportsTurf Managers Association Releases Updated Website

2011-10-11T14:10:00.005-05:00

Keeping up with the latest technology, systems, equipment, supplies, and industry resources continues to be important to the sport turf industry including the leading professional association, STMA. They have just released a new look and feel to their website with some social networking resources including RSS feeds. STMA increases learning opportunities to the industry and supports regional and state chapters to support grass roots efforts.

Tru Mark Athletic Field Marker appreciates the educational value that is available, especially through their annual conference held in different parts of the country, normally in the middle of January.

There are numerous references on the website that can help many of the volunteers to include parents, coaches, and athletes that aren't necessarily the expert or responsible for field, yet helps them be better consumers and supporters of sports field operations.

Nebraska Class A High School Upgrading Football and Track Facility

2011-10-04T10:47:00.006-05:00

After next summer (2012) there will only be one Class A high school playing football games on natural grass. Columbus Nebraska is the latest community after Norfolk, NE (completing their project this summer) for installing a synthetic turf football playing surface.

Many field upgrade projects are minimizing built-in custom logos on the synthetic turf fields as reported in the article due to costs. The going rate, according to the article, is $20k to $25K for a custom midfield stencil and $2,100 per letter for an end zone stencil. With improved manufacturing processes and ingredients there are now more custom logo solutions in the form of permanent and removable paint as wells as aerosol and bulk chalk. Tru Mark continues to introduce solutions to solve sports field and facility managers field marking requirements.

Tru Mark's TrailBlazer permanent (Solar Trail) and removable (Rally Day and Season Ticket) formulated paints for synthetic turf paints help minimize initial and maintenance costs. The Tru Mark SwitchBack Double Play Liquid Chalk, the latest introduction, is formulated to apply like paint using an airless line striper, yet performs like traditional powder chalk requiring no special removal agents nor extensive cleaning actions. Also, Tru Mark offers an aerosol chalk solution for those quick marking tasks using the traditional aerosol line striper.

Tru Mark also offers football and custom field stencils for upgrading the playing surfaces. Have a logo that you are considering then send Tru Mark a good quality digital image attached to an email for a free price quote.

http://columbustelegram.com/news/local/govt-and-politics/article_a946b166-e913-11e0-a7dd-001cc4c03286.html

Google + Implemented for Customer Service, Networking and Collaboration Efforts

2011-10-03T08:25:00.006-05:00

Google + Being Implemented for Improved Business Operations.

Tru Mark continues to investigate and implement customer service solutions. General Manager, Mark Hall, has been using Facebook Business Pages, LinkedIn, and Google Blogger through the Trail Blazing Blog site to increase awareness, improve marketing, increase innovation and offer different custom service solutions. The company is also using Google Picasa Photo Album and YouTube capabilities to provide additional information to customers and prospects.

The latest business process adoption is Google + which allows the identification of different types of personal connections, e.g., customers, suppliers. We look forward to making an on-line connection through one of these capabilities. In many cases we can respond to requests for information during non-office hours.

Time Elapsed Football Field Painting Video

2011-09-30T09:53:00.003-05:00

A college football head coach is an active participant in field painting operations. Not unheard of in high schools around the country, but not that routine at college level, especially in this particular case.

The Omaha World Herald staff writer, Marjie Ducey, captures a great story that started back in the 1980s on the value of presenting a good looking playing field for players and fans. At the time graduate assistant and now Chadron State football coach Bill O'Boyle has been able to apply his creative flare on the the football field canvas. His latest creation is an interlocking C and S letter with the American flag features. The Chadron State staff has been able to capture a time elapsed video of the many different steps required to paint a college football field.

As always good field paint equipment and supplies are an integral part of a successful sports field painting operations. Saving time, minimizing costs and mistakes are top goals of most staff responsible for field painting. Tru Mark Athletic Field Marker strives to exceed those goals when it comes to offering equipment, tool, supplies solutions and customer service.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o8fG1uPRHzs

http://www.omaha.com/article/20110929/SPORTS09/709299775

Stake All Integrated Marking Whisker and Plastic Stake

2011-09-29T14:24:00.013-05:00

Smi-Carr, Inc. has recently released their latest innovation in landscape marking. Called the Stake All, they have taken their 6" marking whiskers in multiple colors and integrated them with a 6" hard plastic stake that can be driven into the landscape and sports fields as well as marking out parking stalls, inflatable gyms, flea market spaces, etc. No more inserting a nail or mounting on a wooden stake and then driving the unit into the landscape. View more photo album images of the Stake All Integrated Marking Whisker and Plastic Stake including Installation Tools.

Tru Mark has created two installation tools, Standup Driver and Hand Driver, for quick and easy application no matter the terrain or surface hardness. These installation tools are all steel zinc plated for longevity. The Tru Mark Standup Driver includes a 34" 1/2" diameter rod that holds the Stake All and slides inside the driver ballasted pipe. The Tru Mark Hand Driver is a 12" 1/2" diameter rod for holding the Stake All unit and using a hammer.

Tru Mark sells the Stake Alls in 5 per package and in sets of 3 (15) Stake Alls and sets of 5 (25) Stake Alls in three colors, white red, and yellow. If you need one of the other traditional marking whisker colors (pink, orange, green, blue) send Tru Mark an email.

The Stake All and Tru Mark installation tools will save you time when completing landscaping and field marking operations. The Stake All plastic stake will also receive a line stringing tool, corner flag springs/fiberglass rod, and springs for marking pylons for events such as football. Excellent means to mark the boundaries of cross country courses along with holding the taller marking flag.

Stake All Integrated Marking Whisker and Plastic Stake
Tru Mark Standup and Hand Driver Installation Tools

Tru Mark is offering savings when purchasing a Standup Driver and a set of 5 (25) Stake Alls and Hand Driver and a set of 5 (25) Stake Alls.

Check out the more of the Stake All and Tru Mark Standup and Hand Driver images.

Tru Mark Titan Speeflow Powrliner 2850 Line Striper Introduction

2011-09-09T06:45:00.009-05:00

Tru Mark is jumping in as a new Titan Tool distributor for Titan's updated line striping and field marking product line. The latest introduction is the Titan Speeflo Powrline 2850 series. This is an updated model to their earlier 2800M unit with additional features to save time (and money) and improve line striping performance.

The 2850 series field marker now has an optional 2 gun configuration, improved spray gun holder and lockable and swivel front wheel.

This a intermediate performance unit, a step up from the Titan Speedflo Powrliner 850, and competes with the Graco LineLazer 3900 and 5900 series units on capabilities.

Titan Tool continues to improve their popular standard larger wheel configuration, a must for natural grass and synthetic turf line striping. In addition the telescoping handle bars will support any personal preference to minimize operator fatigue.

After working with field markers for over 9 years the Subaru 126cc OHC gasoline powered pump only runs at high RPMs when there is a need for pump pressure. This reduces the wear and tear on the pump as well as the operators hearing. I especially like these design solution for their series Titan Speedflo Powrliner 850.

The only thing missing on this unit (and the Titan Speedflo Powrliner 850) is the Tru Mark Paint Shoe Guard Assembly for sports field striping operations. Tru Mark Athletic Field Marker is developing a bolt on accessory tool to minimize over spray and maintain a crisp line no matter the turf conditions. We'll keep you posted on how the prototype Tru Mark Paint Shoe Guard Assembly is progressing. The initial design is completed which features the unmatched industry standard Tru Mark Floating Paint Shoe Guard technology. The next step is integrating a handle bar control assembly to allow for lifting of the Paint Shoe Guards at the end of striping a line (minimize the parallel line affect) and allow for easy, unobstructed turning.

Synthetic Turf Trends--Minimizing Static Electricity

2011-08-11T16:45:00.009-05:00

Do you experience a crumb rubber buildup on your players due to static electricity? Currently facility managers are using an approved wetting agent or some are using Downy Fabric Softener with a wide area sprayer to help minimize the static electricity buildup. Also an irrigation sprinkler application has helped.

Now the synthetic turf manufacturing industry is designing solutions into the fibers to minimize the buildup of static electricity. One of the latest introductions is a new technology by ForeverLawn announcing their Playground Grass Ultra with Patent Pending XStatic™ Technology. This technology is being first applied to playgrounds due the high usage with high contact activities. I suspect it will be introduced into sports turf facilities to help minimize maintenance costs and reduce the nuance of crumb rubber buildup on uniforms and players.

Two important synthetic turf reference sites include the Synthetic Turf Council and the Sports Turf Managers Association.

There have been several recent articles in trade journals that help explain the changes in the synthetic turf industry. Synthetic Turf Fields Benefiting from Latest Fiber Technology, by Paul Steinbach, in Athletic Business magazine covers some of latest trends over the last year (prior to April 2011). Park and Rec Business published an article, Natural Grass Or Synthetic Turf?, by Mary Helen Sprecher, where she covers pros and cons of both field solutions and suggestions on how to move forward in making a decision.

Tru Mark has been distributing field marking solutions for synthetic turf fields to include Tru Mark TrailBlazer removable and permanent field marking paint, aerosol and Tru Mark Switchback bulk liquid chalk (removal without using cleaning agents), as well as field line striping equipment (Tru Mark Model E-100, Graco FieldLazer, Titan Speeflo Powrliner 850).

Simple Yet Elegant Design Maintains Value--Tru Mark Model E-100 Field Marker

2011-08-08T09:29:00.014-05:00

The original Tru Mark design for the Model E-100 athletic field marker was produced in 1995 following an initial Model E-50 prototype. There are several features that lend itself to the simple yet elegant definition. Two photo albums help visualize these features in more detail, from the 3-wheel deck configuration and the easily maintainable Shurflo 12-volt diaphragm pump.

1) The Model E-100 brings together the use of a commercial grade 12-volt diaphragm pump that successfully performs with water soluble paints and a rechargeable Group 24 deep cycle marine battery. Common replacement parts are typically available through local commercial pump and spray parts distributors.

2) An innovative floating paint shoe assembly which almost guarantees a crisp line no matter the terrain.

3) A wide 3-wheel open deck design with a wide handle bar assembly provides for easy maneuverability, easy access for trouble shooting and repairs, and an ergonomic solution to minimize operator fatigue. The configuration helps ensure straight lines even on rough sports turf fields. The 10 inch pneumatic saw tooth wheels help provide for smoother and easier to walk-behind unit even when fully loaded.

4) The spraying application mounted near the front wheel along with the wide deck allows the operator an almost "paint down the line" visibility. The two nozzle bracket assembly improves paint coverage on a single pass.

5) The low volume low pressure pump commercial grade 12-volt diaphragm pump by Shurflo continues to be a proven solution for the biggest jobs yet can be successfully maintained by youth sports club volunteers.

6) The powdered coated and zinc plated steel components along with brass and stainless parts ensure a durable and lengthy service life.

There are other line striping technologies to choose from. During any evaluation we suggest starting out with information sheet on "How to Select and Athletic Field Marker". Please compare with other solutions and learn why Tru Mark customers come back to purchase additional Model E-100s when their field marking responsibilities increase. Tru Mark's Frequently Asked Questions web page answers numerous questions and provides field marking tips to include field layout information and tools.

Titan Speeflo Powrliner 850 Walk-behind Line Striper

2011-08-06T07:46:00.013-05:00

Tru Mark's latest sports field line paint striper offering--Titan Speeflo Powrliner 850. This is the latest gas powered version featuring a new pressure regulated pump--from 200 to 3000 psi, swivel front wheel, removable spray handle for use with stencils and touch-up, adjustable height and removable handle bars, spray gun handle rotation feature for curb and specialty areas. Probably the least expensive gasoline powered walk-behind field and pavement line striper on the market with expanded capabilities for operators.

The switchable pump pressure allow for a lower volume lower pressure application with diluted paint, especially for products like Tru Mark's diluted bulk liquid chalk application on synthetic turf. One of the other important features for synthetic turf facility managers is the efficient application of non-diluted Tru Mark TrailBlazer removable (Rally Day and Season Ticket) and permanent field (Solar Trail) field marking paint using the up to the 3000 psi capable pump.

Now with the swivel capable front wheel on the three wheel chassis, no-flat tires, the field maintenance and volunteer field marking staff can apply soccer field circles and arcs with ease. Also this feature will help ensure even application of pavement zone marking paint on a curved curb in a street or parking lot. Along with the capability to rotate the spray handle this helps ensure a smooth application on curb curves.

In addition the latest update includes the quick removal of the spray wand to support painting of stencils and touch-up operations.

Another very valuable feature is the capability to use the TR2 line striping tips--two tips in one (go from a 4" pattern to a 10" pattern in 1 second. This will be extremely helpful when doing a wider goal line or coaches box as well as X-out areas on parking lots and curbs.

Titan Speeflo Powrline stripers include a industry leading warranty and services program.

Lifetime Motor Warranty
35-Day Satisfaction Guarantee
Lifetime Drive Train Warranty
Express Parts Program
4-Year Manufacturer?s Defects
3-Year Gas Engine Warranty
WearGuard? Convenience Program

Check back soon for additional images of this updated version of a popular gasoline powered line striper

Example of a Good Instructional Video--Playing Catch Mechanics

2011-08-05T17:46:00.009-05:00

How do you improve your skills, professionalism, and quality of life? What tools can help make a difference in your business and increase the value for your customers? Obviously hard work, diligence, learning and executing the proper methods, and a passion to improve. With improved communication and video technologies the visualization of the skill development (and product development) has made a big difference from the telling, showing, to having the means to confirm execution.

Growing up my passion was playing baseball, actively playing from 5 yrs old through a American Legion baseball and town team program. In addition I had the opportunity to play fast and slow pitch softball which is a much different game. For 10 plus years I've helped coach in youth baseball programs. I was fortunately to be exposed to good instructional programs for youth coaches and learned much. Now with improved video and the internet there are more tools available to help make sense of how to take your game to the next level and help players better understand the purpose behind the skills you are teaching them.

One of the better video instructional series is by IMG Baseball Academy which covers multiple sports through the YouTube website. What I liked is they have incorporated the "why and how" into the video series. They have used terminology that has become standard in learning the game of baseball and preform to a higher level.

Tru Mark has taken some early steps in helping with customer education by incorporating a Tru Mark business blog, a product and services photo album with captions to describe what is depicted, and a Frequently Asked Questions section that has a lot of helpful material on Tru Mark products and field marking tips.

Tru Mark in the near future will be using video clips to help expand the "understanding" of the different product offerings. For example, a video that answers why marking whisker plugs with the field line anchor and turf stake help with your field marking operations.

Movable Soccer Goal Safety Act Enacted into Law

2011-08-04T09:43:00.021-05:00

Over the years numerous injuries and deaths have been associated with soccer goal tip-overs.

Recently, Illinois law makers passed and the governor signed into law the Movable Soccer Goal Safety Act. This law was implemented by a lengthy effort by a family who lost a son to a goal tip-over incident. They created the Anchored for Safety, a non-profit organization to help promote and educate communities and youth sports associations on soccer goal safety concerns and solutions.

There are numerous soccer goal anchoring solutions from auger -- helical (spiral) in shape, semi-permanent connections, staking, to sandbag for synthetic turf and mobile applications. The Anchor for Safety organization has also listed appropriate storing procedures for soccer goals. For example, turning the soccer goal so the goal mouth is facing a fixed object to prevent tipping (see image above).

Tru Mark Athletic Field Marker developed the 35 pound Sandbag solution ( see image above) to help prevent soccer goal tipping problems. This 35# sandbag is designed with two filled pouches so that it can be laid length wise across a soccer goal ground bar to maximize the ballast characteristics yet minimize overlap exposure, net interference and tripping hazards to participants. Adding several of these easy to carry sandbags that a customer fills on site provides versatility while improving the ballast requirement for soccer goals, especially on synthetic turf fields. Check out the 35# sandbag photo album for images depicting the design and use characteristics.

If you have specific sandbag specifications please contact us and we'll provide you with a price quote. Tru Mark sandbags are made for outdoor and indoor use that feature materials that increase longevity while presenting a professional image when in use. Customers are using these sandbags for doors stops, holding photo equipment in place, trade show booths, to car stops and doorway barriers.

What Does Outstanding Service Consist Of?

2011-07-15T15:17:00.008-05:00

I'm always looking to do business, whether on a personal or business level, with individuals that provide outstanding service when I'm not expecting anything out of the ordinary. I've experienced two positive customer service examples in the last week.

At home we needed to replace and adjust some sprinkler heads in 8 zones. Yes, I could probably have done it myself but it would have taken twice as long besides going to the store to purchase the correct replacement heads.

I called Alex Weaver, owner of Guaranteed Lawn and Irrigation, from the Norfolk, NE area. I gave him the situation over the phone and asked him to stop by to survey the situation in more detail. He said he would probably make the stop several days later on Friday or Saturday. Alex said he would call first.

On Friday at lunch time I did get his call. Alex was between jobs so he asked very politely if he could stop over. He showed up in 15 minutes and we took about 10 minutes to survey and flag those irrigation heads needing replacement from the 8 zones and over 50 sprinkler heads in the yard.

Not expecting him to start at that moment Alex indicated he would see what he could get done in the next hour before his next appointment.

Well in less than one hour he had replaced 5 sprinkler heads, a couple large capacity and the other small capacity heads, in a very professional manner, putting grass back in place with sprinkler heads at the correct height. Then Alex Weaver went through all the zones readjusting the sprinkler head spray patterns, over 2 dozen needing some adjustment.

Now that is service. I will be asking him to do more in the future. Besides irrigation installations and service Alex is in partnership with his father in an ever expanding business that includes mowing, fertilizing, weed control, aerating, power raking, seeding, sodding, snow removal.

Alex Weaver, Owner
Guaranteed Lawn and Irrigation
503 Opal Lane
Norfolk, NE 68701
402-640-0047

I asked Alex what sprinkler heads he preferred, Rainbird irrigation sprinkler heads were his first choice followed by Hunter sprinkler heads.

In my situation, Alex had the parts with him to replace the broken sprinkler heads. Tru Mark Athletic Field Marker normally has field marking replacement parts on hand for immediate shipment to the customer. Tru Mark equipment was designed so there is little or no special equipment involved, primarily simple hand tools, to replace common wear items. In most cases Tru Mark offers field kits that include the common replacement parts to minimize any downtime during the field striping operations throughout the sports season.

Remote Internet Access with WiFi Waterproof Solution

2011-07-13T14:39:00.020-05:00

Turf, recreation and facility management professionals are increasing their dependence on internet access to effectively complete their jobs in less time. Entrepreneurs in the boating industry have come up with a small waterproof and effective tool to extend internet access for customers while on board their boats and out of reach of typical land line connections. This same capability can be used in recreation and sporting facilities as well as on construction sites. The "remote" WiFi capability will be helpful to customers that are using these same facilities as an "value added" benefit and service.

Cruising Compass on-line magazine highlighted the wireless long distant WiFi and access point WirieAP product. The Wirie website provides additional information on waterproof wireless WiFi and access point installation/mounting options, setup procedures, and operations capabilities. The frequently asked questions section of the website does a good job of covering many of the concerns a potential customer might have concerning the "remote" installation and operation. The primary operational requirement is access to a power outlet. The website indicated the setup is straight forward using a personal computer web browser.

One of the handy features is the device operates as an access point which allow multiple devices to share the networking capabilities. With wireless printers and other wireless enable devices the Wirie device can become a "remote" office without a significant amount of infrastructure costs. With more smartphone devices these wireless network capabilities will only enhance work productivity and customer service.

I'm looking forward someday to use this technology (internal clock and timing) along with GPS signals to increase the precision needed to drive a straight line when field marking. Once the field dimensions are loaded into a WIFi capable handheld device, the device automatically determines the intersections distances (or wave points) (using the Tru Mark field layout tool solution) and then using a light bar or navigation enabled steering guide to assist the athletic field marker operator. Thus you can eliminate the staking and pulling string to line a sports field complex with minimal equipment costs.

Turning Brown Turf Green with Sports Turf Colorant

2011-07-08T13:25:00.020-05:00

Saving water by using a turf colorant that is safe and long lasting is gaining acceptance in the lawn care business.

It started in Southern California during a down housing market and is now moving to Texas where the grass has turned brown from the extended drought and water restrictions.

Lawn care entrepreneurs are using golf course solutions to help residential customers. Turf colorants, whether a darker bluegrass tint or a grayer bermudagrass tint, are being applied to lawns to reduce the use of water while maintaining a greener looking yard.

The San Antonia TV station KSAT reported that Dan Agold, owner Texas Green Grass, Inc., has been applying the turf dye at about $0.18 per square foot which lasts about 3 months unless it is mowed off.

Tru Mark starting marketing comparable turf colorant products several years ago, SwitchBack Kameelyan Blue Turf Colorant and SwitchBack Kameelyan Bermuda Turf Colorant.

These turf colorants have been successfully tested on evergreen trees as well.

There are no metals, salts nor EPA restricted materials in these turf colorants. You can change the tint by reducing or increasing the dilution ratios using water. The turf colorants have been tested from 9 parts water to 1 part colorant to 19 parts water to 1 part colorant with excellent color holding performance over a 2-3 month period.

Sports Turf Managers Association (STMA) conference members from golf facilities are reporting they are typically applying the turf colorant in the late fall before the grass turns dormant (still has some green color) and again late winter just as the grass is coming out of dormancy. The STMA members stated that the fall application helps maintain a green color longer. They believed there was less absorption by the leaf with more colorant staying on the leaf surface. Also with the late winter early spring application the STMA members felt that the growing process was accelerated with more of the suns energy being absorbed by the leaf due to the darker color.

A recent article was posted in the Superintendent golf course magazine (July 2011 issue) on the topic of turf colorants and industry suppliers reporting on the improved products coming to the marketplace.

Sports Field Marking Paint Impact on Natural Grass

2011-07-05T12:45:00.025-05:00

At the part of the educational session of the Southeastern Regional STMA conference, June 2011, Dr. Grady Miller, gave a presentation on the affects of field marking paint on natural grass sports fields. He included some on-line documentation that should be useful to sports field managers and volunteers striping sports pitches.

The test plot results indicate that colored paints, in this particular case, red, had a direct and noticeable impact on the health of natural grass. From my analysis it would appear that sports turf managers should minimize the weekly use of colored paint, or at least increase the dilution ratio of the color paints thus helping improve the overall turf health. When the facility doesn't have to support back to back home games then this minimal application policy should be included in weekly activities.

On a side note, when visiting the Texas A&M football facilities as part of the 2011 annual STMA conference on wheels, the turf managers indicated that turf paint ingredients need to be scrutinized. They indicated that some of the turf paints they have used had a significant amount of metals and salts that impacted the grass on logo areas of their fields.

Dr. Miller also included in the Southeastern Conference educational material was a comparison chart from an August 2010 Field Day presentation (end of educational slides referenced above). In the paint usage chart he compared the coverage rates and costs associated with aerosol and bulk latex field marking paints. A ready to use bulk latex formulation was part of the study. Given the information on bulk latex cost and application rates it appears that the turf marking paint was diluted approximately 5 gallons of water to 1 gallon of paint (to achieve 1900 liner feet per gallon (assumed to be undiluted)). From our experience we achieve about 300 linear feet per diluted gallon of bulk latex paint. Thus when evaluating field marking paint it is important to consider the recommended dilution rate, or range of dilution rates, to properly compare costs of the different bulk latex paints between each other as well as with aerosol paints.

$/5-gal	Ratio	Diluted	Linear Ft	$/Diluted Gallon
		Gallons	(300/gal)
$40	1:1	10	3000	$4.00
$60	2:1	15	4500	$4.00
$60	3:1	20	6000	$3.00
$70	4:1	25	7500	$2.80
$150	8:1	45	13500	$3.33

New for 2011, Tru Mark is also offering a ready to use paint formulation, SwitchBack CheapSeats Ready to Use (RTU) that performs very will even with 12 volt diaphragm pump technologies. As easy as opening the lit, stir and pour or use directly from the pail.

Tip of the Day: Always reseal a paint pail lid when leaving diluted as well as non-diluted paint in a 5-gallon pail. You will minimize the amount of settling of paint solids when the pail lid is securely fastened.

Tru Mark recently completed a settling test with the SwitchBack Ground Boss field marking paint formulation. Ground Boss can be diluted up to 4 parts of water to 1 part paint with good coverage. Two dilution ratios were setup, one at a one to one (1:1) ratio and the second at a two to one (2:1) ratio (water to paint). The paint was diluted and stirred then the paint pail lid was resealed. The dilute paint was then check later at three months and again at one year to discover whether there had been any significant paint settling. Both the 3 month and 12 month duration periods showed there was no "sludge" collection at the bottom of the pail and even at 12 months there was only an 1/4 inch of a thicker paint solution that was easily stirred into even dilution.

Irrigating Synthetic Turf -- Pros and Cons

2011-06-01T12:35:00.009-05:00

Adapted from two article printed in the SportsTurf Magazine, May 2011 issue, pg. 16 & pg. 18, pg. 32 & 34 with numerous interviews of sports turf and facility managers of different sport complexes.

Those interviewed indicated that irrigating the synthetic turf to reduce the temperature affects were only slightly successful, and only for a short period of time, typically 30 minutes. Many avoided irrigation before events due to time constraints.

A majority of the managers indicated that adding water helped to settle the infield, especially those using crumb rubber, after it was groomed as well as minimize the static build-up.

One individual indicated that the athletes liked a "wet" field which helped improve the "not grab" as much field surface for the cleats versus playing on a drier field.

One of the biggest issues the sports turf managers face is the build-up of organic matter on the field from dust, dirt, body fluids, leaves, hair, debris, etc. Many of them indicated that removing a growing medium was critical to minimize the growth of bacteria and plants. Once the surface is cleaned, whether through mechanical means such as a blower and a vacuum and then spray disinfectants, the facility managers felt is was important to rinse the turf fibers using irrigation methods. Some used water cannons or in-ground sprinkler system around the edge.

The key is removing the "dirt" which a brush will not do, but rather "pushes" it into the infield material. While the brush may help agitate the fibers and infield material it doesn't necessarily clean either one. So one author indicated that it is important to understand what was being accomplished with the respective maintenance procedures.

One mentioned the analogy is with a locker room, if the shower area of locker room is kept clean then there is less opportunity for bacterial infections. Just rinsing the surface will not necessarily "clean" the surface.

The synthetic turf equipment industry trend, from this author's point of view, is more vacuum technology that filters the material allowing the infield material to fall back to the surface. For example, further adaptation of the LawnShark equipment for synthetic turf surfaces is a possibility in my estimation.

Overseas Shipping Options for Sport Field Marking Equipment and Supplies

2011-05-23T13:11:00.007-05:00

In the past couple months we've received several inquiries on shipping equipment, tools and supplies outside of the lower 48 states, specifically to non-US countries.

For small sized shipments, less that 70 pounds and small carton dimensions, we typically try and use the US Priority Mail International (to 190 countries) with 6-10 business days.

On larger and heavier cartons (e.g., for field markers, field marking paint) we have arrangements with UPS Supply Chain Solutions, air freight consolidated services. These shipments are typically priced from shipper location to the nearest international air freight terminal where the customer is responsible for duty and custom fees.

For pallet size shipments it works much better if the customer has a freight forwarding contact in the USA at one of the seaside ports.

Give us a try and we'll see if we can make it happen. We've shipped to China several times, the United Kingdom, Lagos, Nigeria, Cumbaya, Ecuador, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Canada from Florida to Washington, California to Maine, Montana to Texas, Hawaii and Alaska.

If we don't have the product we'll try and direct to a supplier.

Looking for Removable Field Paints for Use on a Sports Event

2011-05-08T05:50:00.006-05:00

A recent email inquiry generates a couple different options depending on event duration and available resources.

"I have noticed your product Trail Blazer. Just how easy is it to remove the paint and will it leave any ghost marks on the turf. We are looking at drawing 4 soccer pitch on the a regular soccer pitch."

Yes the TrailBlazer removable paint product line is designed to eliminate ghosting when using the Trail Wash cleaning solution and a turf fiber agitation process (e.g., brush/broom/mechanical ).
http://www.athleticfieldmarker.com/products/paint/trailblazer-rally-day-removable-turf-paint-white-5-gallons.html ($200.00 per 5-gallon pail)
http://www.athleticfieldmarker.com/products/paint/trailblazer-trail-wash-turf-paint-removal-agent-5-gallons.html ($110.00 per 5-gallon pail)

If the lines are only going to be very temporary, say for a weekend, then we would suggest the SwitchBack Double Play liquid chalk product, diluted one part liquid chalk with one part water. This product performs once dried similar to a powdered chalk that is typically used on ball field skinned areas.
http://www.athleticfieldmarker.com/products/paint/switchback-double-play-liquid-chalk-all-turf-white-5-gallons.html ($100.00 per 5-gallon pail)

Here’s a list of tips on the amount field marking paint that you should consider.http://www.athleticfieldmarker.com/faq#faq-paint-usage

For plan on 4-5 gallons of undiluted bulk paint for each full sized soccer pitch and about 6 gallons of diluted (3 gallons undiluted) bulk liquid chalk per soccer pitch. Depending on the number of matches the bulk liquid chalk may have to applied a couple times in the high wear areas.

The TrailBlazer undiluted paint product needs to be applied using an airless sprayer that puts out at least 1000 psi at the pump to atomize the material. The Double Play bulk chalk after dilution can be applied using a low volume low pressure sprayer such as our 12-volt diaphragm pump technology field markers.

Yes we can ship to Singapore using UPS Supply Chain Solutions consolidated air freight services. The best pricing is typically from our warehouse location to the nears international air freight terminal where the customer is responsible for the customs and duties. We can provide the commercial invoice, letter of instructions, and bill of lading. Their delivery service is typically 7-10 business days for international shipments. For an price estimate you should consider about $2.00 to 3.00 per pound shipping expense. Each 5-gallon pail weighs approximately 60 pounds. Right now for four(4) 5-gallon pails at 60 pounds each will cost close to $500.00 with delivery to nearest international air freight terminal in Singapore.

You might try a flat exterior latex based paint that you dilute one part paint to one part water and apply using an airless painter. This type of paint typically flakes off fairly quickly and can normally be cleaned using a product called Simple Green, biodegradable/non-toxic, cleaning solution along with a broom/brush action. Even testing with a pump hand sprayer might be a worthwhile test on as secluded area of the pitch.

What to Do with Unused Liquid Chalk and Field Marking Paint?

2011-04-26T19:55:00.011-05:00

I do have a question, they want me to do a small test area, if I mix a small portion of the liquid chalk [Tru Mark's SwitchBack Double Play Liquid Chalk] with an equal part of water and do a demo, can I use what I've mixed at a later date or will it dry out and not be usable? [This is an application using an airless field marking unit on a synthetic turf sports field.]

For the unused pail of liquid chalk (not yet diluted) you should reseal the lid securely for the next use. Just remix the liquid chalk in the 5-gallon pail before you go through the next dilution process. The key is to keep the lid sealed, not just sitting on the top of the pail. Always add the chalk/paint to a pail/container of water. Never add water from a hose (especially with the hose end exposed to the air) into a pail of chalk/paint as you will add air to the diluted mixtures causing pump performance issues.

Put the diluted liquid chalk in a container that you can closed. You can reuse this, however in most cases the solids will settle out over time. During the next use process I pour out the majority of the liquid into another pail for remixing. I then use a putty knife to peel off the solids from the bottom of the pail, then add a little water and stir with a paint paddle to get the solids back into suspense. I use this previously diluted chalk for the next mix cycle with a new batch of undiluted liquid chalk.

For test purposes I would try and use one gallon of liquid chalk with one gallon of water to make two gallons of diluted liquid. This will be more than enough for a couple test strips since you should get up to 300 linear feet out of one diluted gallon, depending on how fast you walk with the line striper.

Check with the facility manager and apply two test strips, one a single pass, and the second a double pass (try and let the first pass dry (give it 10-15 minutes if possible between passes). This will be a good test, especially in a high traffic area, e.g., entrance to the field or facility. Try and let the material dry for an hour if possible. If it is outside with a breeze and sun it will dry pretty well in 30 minutes. Once it dries you can then perform the scuff/broom/removal tests. I would have a pump up sprayer (or battery powered backpack sprayer) with water in it to help remove the dust following the scuff/broom/removal process, especially if this is indoors.

If the line striper pump has a pressure regulator you want to dial the pressure down to minimize the amount of liquid chalk that goes deep into the turf fibers. Otherwise, the faster you walk the more you minimize the “over application”.

Those without an airless field paint striper should consider the aerosol chalk solution. This is applied just like aerosol field marking paint, yet performs similar to dry powdered chalk used on baseball and softball fields. The different colored (red, yellow, and blue) aerosol chalk solutions has been popular for many club sports programs.

Spring Savings--Sports Field Marking Whiskers with Raptor Stakes and String Winders

2011-04-04T15:34:00.015-05:00

Check out our latest spring savings for helping laying out a new sports field.

Tru Mark Athletic Field Marker is now offer a savings on sports field marking whiskers with Raptor stakes. These marking whiskers with the latest technology in composite nails will cause minimal damage to any landscaping equipment and improve safety for participants. Save 10% or more when order a single set of 25 marking whiskers (multiple color options) and 25 Raptor stakes. Pound the head of the stake with marking whisker into the turf approximately a half inch below the surface. Trim marking whisker to height of the grass or just let the mower trim the whisker to the grass height. We've found soccer clubs use different colored marking whisker for the different age sized fields to quickly line a field within a field.

Also featured this spring is the Heavy Duty String Winder at a 10% plus savings. Order one or three (and get even more savings) without or with 500' or 1000' of braided #18 twine for a terrific savings in time when it come to reeling in the line using a cordless drill. Just pull the corner stakes and let the cordless drill do it job in seconds versus minutes. This all steel construction with steel ball bearings will hold up under the harshest construction and field maintenance operations. We'll add an additional 500' for $14.95 to the 1000' which will more than outline a full sized soccer or football field.

Don't forget to review our latest athletic sports field marking tools, Marking Whisker Plugs. These multiple purpose field marking flags can be inserted into the Field Line Anchor for extremely quick identification between events and a succeeding season. Also these special use marking whiskers can be inserted directly into the skinned area of a ball field, e.g., help outline the batter boxes without the use of a template, using a 3/4 inch drill bit to hollow out a hole to bury the plug for season long use. Save additional field striping time by including the sports Turf Stake for holding the line striping string.

Synthetic Turf Industry Receiving a Black Eye

2011-03-19T10:21:00.003-05:00

It not a good sign when a major industry market leader has filed an approximately $30M lawsuit against its primary synthetic turf manufacturer.

This could put into question all the past installations, installation underway, and proposed projects from different vendors that are representing FieldTurf. FieldTurf has very recently filed lawsuit against the turf manufacturer TenCate (an alleged inferior product being provided). From another source in the industry there has apparently been numerous warranty reports submitted by FieldTurf customers where the product has failed in some degree associated with their 8 year warranty. This lawsuit was filed in Georgia Northern District Court which is in the jurisdiction of where TenCate has its manufacturing operations.
http://www.scribd.com/doc/50114371/Fieldturf-TenCate-lawsuit

FieldTurf has a big target on their back partly because of their market share and large operations thus they have a fair number of law suites registered. Besides putting into question the whole industry, this could damage FieldTurf's reputation (and future business) in the industry and the number of new products they've promoted and introduced over the years.
http://dockets.justia.com/search?q=Fieldturf+USA%2C+Inc.

I suspect the sports turf managers supporting synthetic turf fields would like to see this recent lawsuit resolved quickly and that they can expect their turf warranty will stay in force if problems arise.

Tru Mark Search Engine Optimization Presentation at MarkeTECH

2011-03-17T07:41:00.004-05:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MarkeTech Conference partners marketing with technology

MARCH 15, 2011 (HOLBROOK, NEB.)—Tired of being stuck in the slow lane where increased revenue is concerned? The 2011 MarkeTECH Conference will help fast track your business to the technology express lane.

Sponsored and hosted by GROW Nebraska, the conference will be held Thursday, March 31 at Northeast Community College Learning Center in Norfolk.

“Nebraska is fortunate to have a tremendous community college system,” said Janell Anderson Ehrke, CEO, GROW Nebraska. “We consistently encourage entrepreneurs to take advantage of classes available to them through their local community college. Our partnership with Northeast Community College on the MarkeTech conference allows us to showcase this valuable resource.”

Joseph Knecht, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Vipa Solutions, is this year’s featured keynote speaker. Knecht’s presentation, "Your Web Site is a Tool ... Now How to Use It!”, will show you how to incorporate dynamic content, eCommerce, blogs, and virtual customer interactions in your Web Site.

Additional sessions will focus on three tracks Web Sites, Social Media and Basic Business and will feature topics including eCommerce, Search Engine Optimization, Analytical Tools, Web Site Content, Twitter Time Savers, LinkedIn Personal & Company Profile Branding, Facebook/Blogs/Auto Responder Integration, Set Up Tools for Success, Identifying and Protecting Intellectual Property, Developing a Reliable Sales System with Mathematics, and Loans and Other Business Opportunities.

Registration is filling up fast so you’ll want to register online as soon as possible at: http://www.grownebraska.org/services/marketech_conference.php

For more information about speakers, the conference agenda, or how to showcase your business products and services, visit the GROW Nebraska Web Site. If you have any questions, contact Shawnna Silvius, Conference Coordinator, at 402-873-4027 or email marketech@grownebraska.org.

eSelling4u.com, Inc. dba Tru Mark Athletic Field Marker, Mark Hall, General Manager made presentation on Search Engine Optimization, Making it Work For You, "Learning to Fish." Mark Hall presented the SEO -- Learning How to Fish presentation in front of 30 indviduals. Several questions were asked between the numer of Google searches listed in the Google Keyword Seach Tool and the number of times a keyword/keyword phrase has been indexed by the Google search engine bots. The emphasis is how to use the "best" keywords through the number of opportunties on a web page.

Field Marking Service Front Range Denver, Colorado

2011-03-17T07:16:00.004-05:00

More businesses are incorporating field marking operations into their landscaping and lawn care business.

Bob Mueller, Mueller Turf Maintenance, 303-550-2088 (m), has expanded his operations in the Denver, CO area to include field marking services to include synthetic turf line striping. He has a Graco LineLaser 3900 adjustable pressure unit that has the capacity to apply synthetic turf paint without dilution and liquid bulk chalk without over pressure application.

Give Bob a call to get your sports field professionally lined.

Nine Companies Bid on Norfolk, NE Synthetic Turf Field

2011-03-10T05:56:00.008-06:00

On March 3, 2011, City of Norfolk administrators opened bids along with the engineering firm DLR Group of Omaha for a football and soccer synthetic turf field for the Veterans Memorial Park. The project is described in more detail in an earlier post.

The bidders were required to provide two separate bids, one for completion in late August 2011 and another for completion in August 2012. The earlier bid allows for a 30 day installation period following a one week inspection of the sub-grade. The second bid allows for a 60 day installation window. According to the Norfolk Daily News, March 4, 2011, City/Region section, page 15, there were 34 bids to be evaluated using a matrix of performance characteristics. Bidders could offer multiple turf technology solutions.

Bids ranged from $306,750 to $377,000 for a 2011 completion and $315,120 to $422,000 for a 2012 completion.

The final award will not be announced until after there has been a review of the overall general contract effort (parking lots, seating, consolidated bath house, locker rooms, rest rooms, and concession stand) and matching the costs relative to the two different installation options. The 2011 installation allows for a period of less than 90 days to get the sub-grade prepared to include aggregate(s) application, packing, laser grading, drainage, and curbing as well as other efforts surrounding the field of play.

A vendor selection recommendation will be presented to the City Council members at a meeting on March 28th.

As a side note, I spoke with a local concrete and paving firm and the owner stated that his firm and three other local firms reviewed the general contracted effort. After evaluation and considering the project as a local team effort they determined that the "local team" could not complete the parking lot paving requirements in the time allowed in the contract schedule.

http://trumark.blogspot.com/2011/02/mult-use-synthetic-turf-field-specified.html

On March 28, 2011, Norfolk City Council selected the Sprintturf solution for the football and soccer field complex. You can read the Norfolk Daily News account of the meeting and more about how this product selection, although not the lowest submitted bid. Now the general contractor which was also selected at the same meeting has about 90 days to prepare the base, the concrete border, and drainaged for the Sprintturf installation which is scheduled for a 30 day period.

How Many Cans of Spray Paint to Line a Field?

2011-02-26T13:40:00.018-06:00

We get this question on many occasions throughout the year depending on the sport involved. There is some variability in our assumptions yet we tend to following these guide lines when comparing different painting options.

A typical 18-20 ounce aerosol can of spray paint is going to produce a 2” to 4” wide line that is between 200 to 300 linear feet depending on how fast you walk and whether you make a second pass. For example 100 square feet of paint coverage translates into 300 linear feet for a 4 inch line.

Using a more conservative figure of 200 linear feet for line coverage here are some examples for soccer, football, and lacrosse.

Full sized soccer field, 360’ x 225’, penalty and goalie box, center circle, generates approximately 2300 linear feet (adding spectator boundary lines adds another 1400 linear feet). Thus you need 12 cans of aerosol paint (another 7 for spectator boundary lines). By using 300 linear feet you reduce the amount to 8 cans and 5 cans respectively.

Full a full sized football field with 5 yard lines, 360’ x 160’, is approximately 4200 linear feet, add 1300 linear feet for spectator barrier, plus approximately 500 square feet for numbering (50 sq ft/1 aerosol can for coverage). On conservative end you would use 21, 7, and 10 cans for field, spectator boundary, and field numbers respectively. By using 300 linear feet per aerosol can the respective number would be 14, 4, and 10 cans per field.

For a full sized men’s lacrosse field, 330’ x 180’, generates approximately 2200 linear feet. This field would require 11 aerosol cans of field marking paint.

Now for costs we’ll use $60/12 can case of aerosol paint or $5/can.

For bulk latex you’ll achieve approximately 300 linear feet per diluted gallon of field marking paint. So for example if we used a $60/5-gallon pail that is diluted 2 gallons of water to 1 gallon of paint (2:1) to produce 15 gallons of diluted paint for a cost of $4/diluted gallon.

We’ll use the larger field measurements and the conservative paint usage for comparison purposes:

	Aerosol		Bulk Latex
	# of Can	Cost	# of gal	Cost
Soccer	19	$ 85	12	$ 50
Football	38	$ 190	24	$ 95
Lacrosse	11	$ 55	7	$ 30

Visit our website for all the latest field marking paint solutions, whether for natural or synthetic turf.

Using these comparisons and the number of fields and the number of times an organization lines their fields help justify the investment in bulk latex field marking equipment. Besides saving on supply costs the user will produce better quality lines that will hold up longer and apply the lines in less total time even when including mixing and clean-up.

Sports Complex Sustainability Techniques--environment, economy, and social good

2011-02-25T06:34:00.016-06:00

2011 SportsTurf Managers Association Conference and Trade Show included several sessions on sustainability techniques that have been used in golf course and city park and recreation operations that save on supplies, pesticides, equipment wear and tear and reduce man hours.

One session in particular was very informative, Implementing an Environmental Stewardship Program for your Sports Facility, presented by Dr. Dave Minner, Iowa State University, and Jim Sluiter, Audubon International, Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Programs.

A brief introduction was made on the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program and how this can be incorporated into you day-to-day activities, e.g., site assessment, implementation plan, and documentation. There is a certification plan that can be implemented over a 3-year effort. The program involves the intersection of the environment, economy, and social good. The method to achieve "being green" for a sports complex is to reduce the use of pesticides, fuel, water, energy and labor while improving community relationships and marketing.

Several testimonials were given by Kevin Mercer, superintendent of grounds at St. Mary’s College of Maryland, who was awarded the President’s Award for Leadership by the Sports Turf Managers Association (STMA) during the 2011 conference.

The presentation team provided a Gallup Poll finding from 2009 that stated 83% of those polled were worried about water bodies. Once of the lessons learned is to start taking water readings from your water bodies, track trends, and develop measures to improve results (before you are directed to by state or federal authorities).

Integrated Pest Management was discussed and is centered on scouting, record keeping, and reducing not eliminating pesticides. One of the techniques is to establish buffer zones to improve natural filtration and dedicated spaces that are no spray zones. Dr. Minner indicated that he believe IPM would become a mandated practice for those receiving federal funds such as schools.

Other sustainability techniques discussed included deep and infrequent irrigation (adding soil sensors to better manage water usage), introducing drought tolerant plants, using plant growth regulators to reduce thatch and minimize mowing operations, and conducting an irrigation audit to verify performance.

One of the best practices that generated a lot of discussion is creating a "picture frame" in your mowing operations by adjusting the mower deck height to create an offsetting landscape thus reducing the number of times specific areas need to be mowed over the course of a growing season. Just this technique can reduce the fuel, man hours, and maintenance on equipment.

Paint usage is a challenge for sports field operations. It is important to implement wash pads to collect paint runoff and allow it to disseminate through a turf sediment and filtration area.

Dr Minner, endorses a University of Iowa publication, Golf Course Pollution Prevention Guide, that can be easily adapted to sports field managers.

Many other recommendations were mentioned during the presentation to include, composting (e.g., using the coffee grounds from food service which is an excellent mulching material), using waste oil in low cost waste oil heaters, introducing motion sensors in facilities to minimize use of lights, and helping educate the community by incorporating signage in areas where stewardship practices are being implemented.

For example in an earlier blog post discussed how the use of turf colorants is a money saving practice by reducing the amount of overseeding. Tru Mark continues to help field marking staff better appreciate the justification for converting from aerosol to bulk latex paint operations, saving paint, containers, and time (and the environment).

Multi-use Synthetic Turf Field Specified for Norfolk, NE Project

2011-02-17T06:52:00.007-06:00

The City of Norfolk, in conjunction with three area high schools and citizen committees, has specified a multi-purpose synthetic turf field to replace the natural grass City's Veteran Memorial Field. DLR Group, architect for the project, has specified that the turf will manufactured as a mono-filament or mixed fiber material. Because soccer will be played on this synthetic turf field it was felt that a split film only fabric turf would not be sufficient to replicate the playing surface for soccer.

The request for bid included two options, one to complete the turf installation by end of July 2011, and the end of July 2012. A general contractor (bid request and award trailing the turf bid and award by a couple weeks) is responsible for the sub-grade installation, drainage and curbing. The winning turf vendor will have approximately a week to complete inspection to accept the sub-grade for installation and then approximately4 weeks (2011 installation) or 8 weeks (2012 installation) to complete the work.

The request for bid response is due the early part of March with a award date toward the end of March. The bid request is targeting companies that have extensive experience with the numerous product offerings and a successful installation history. An 8 year warranty with yearly safety inspections and warranty service has been incorporated into the project. Cost is not the only evaluation criteria as DLR Group is using a matrix for the evaluation process and presentation to Norfolk City Council to make the final selection.

Suggested turf maintenance equipment was identified but will be purchased under separate purchasing arrangements.

How Does Turf Colorant Save Resources (and improve appearance)?

2011-02-12T10:56:00.012-06:00

Turf colorant operations were one of the more popular topics during this year’s annual SportsTurf Managers Association conference. Dr. Grady Miller, North Carolina State, presented the latest results from his research started in 2008. He explained how and why a practice that has been adopted by golf course superintendents is now being incorporated into turf manager operations across the country. Many of these same practices are being used in the lawn care business to improve the sale of real estate.

One of the biggest costs for golf courses is the fall overseeding program to maintain a green course when the warm season grasses go dormant. Dr. Miller’s research results have generated some recommendations for sports turf managers. The earlier you apply the turf colorant the longer the colorant lasts on the plant tissue. He attributed this to when the grass is still green there is less absorption of the material, thus more on the leaf as it goes into dormancy. Also dilution ratios, the gallons per 1,000 square foot, and whether to make a double pass have a direct impact to the results in color and how well it lasts. He found that an earlier fall application, before the turf went dormant, would hold up to for 2-3 months.

His typical application rate was in the neighborhood of 1 gallon of diluted material covering 1,000 square feet. Thus for every gallon of turf colorant you are covering approximately 10,000 square feet (1 to 9 dilution ratio) for about $50.00 (plus labor and equipment costs). Now compare this to your cost of a overseeding program.

Another benefit was how quickly the grass came out of dormancy, the colorant promoted more heat absorption similar to the effect of putting down a protective mat/tarp to keep the ground warmer.

Dr. Miller also evaluated several products at different dilution ratios on his turf grass plot. Approximately twelve different turf colorant formulations at the time were used, the more well know products ranging in prices from $45 to $65 per gallon, that recommended dilution ratios from 1 to 7 to 1 to 10, 1 gallon of turf colorant to x gallons of water. The higher concentration of turf colorant did have a positive result when it comes to color and longevity.

His series of images reflected that depending on the angle of the sun and where the observer stood had some significant differences on “how well” the application performed. This is similar to cutting grass between the 5 yard lines in different direction to get staggered appearance.

Our own turf colorant tests on cool season grasses and trees reflected these same observations. Check out our Turf Colorant Picasa photo album on test that were completed in the late fall of 2009. Dr. Miller indicated that since the yellow pigment in the turf colorant is typically less stable than the blue pigment that you see the application turning blue as time goes on.

During application it was noted by several in the audience that you don’t want turf colorant to come in contact with concrete as it acts like a die similar to a wood stain, it doesn’t come out. All your equipment will turn green. Dr Miller suggested that the appropriate spray tip selection is in the range of 11005 and 11008. This stands for 110 degree spray fan and either a 0.5 or 0.8 gallons per minute at 45 PSI. The spray boom was at a height where they tried to achieve a 10” spray fan when reaching the turf.

Although Dr. Miller indicated that diaphragm pump technology did not perform as well as piston drive unit, Tru Mark has been very successful in using 12-volt Shurflo diaphragm pump technology to apply turf colorants, whether in a Shurflo electric backpack sprayer or a Model E-100 Field Marker with Spray Boom Accessory. This is in stark difference with a more caustic material such as deicer solutions that quickly oxidize metals on the applicators.

One of the final tests Dr. Miller is performing is “rub off” test. He is using a white cloth that is weighed and then dragged over the turf where colorant was applied. There have been reports that different turf colorants may perform better for sports turf application and reduce the amount of colorant transfer to a participant’s clothing when coming in contact with the turf (not that grass stains are any less problematic) thereby aggravating the sports teams appearance.

The same principles for calibrating a sprayer for pest controls should be used when apply turf colorant.

Here’s some additional background information on Dr. Miller’s research. Update on university turf-related research projects, Part I, Evaluating the use of green turf colorants as an alternative to overseeding warm season turf grasses. (near bottom of report dated 01/25/2010)

Another current Turf Magazine article, A Fresh Coat of Paint? by Don Dale, Take winter turf from brown to green quickly.

One of the industrial leaders, Becker Underwood, in turf colorant business recently announces some new products.

Tru Mark Athletic Field Marker offers two color formulations of Turf Colorant, Switchback Kameelyan Blue Turf Colorant and SwitchBack Kameelyan Bermuda Turf Colorant.

Another recent article, on how a turf colorant can be used as a spray indicator dye to show where you’ve been when applying pesticide controls.

We would enjoy hearing about and seeing your own experiences of turf colorants.

Sideline Protective Turf and Track Mat

2011-02-09T16:58:00.011-06:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Norfolk, NE (February 9, 2011)

New protective turf and track products from Aer-flo Products and offered by Tru Mark Athletic Field Marker include a series of Sideline Protective Turf and Track Mats. These protective mats consist of the same material found in the Bench Zone Sideline Track Protector and Cross-over Track Protectors, but without the wind weighted border.

They are manufactured either with or without grommets and in two colors, grey or black. Customers have experienced excellent protection yet wanted this durable and breathable material without a weighted chain border. These mats protect high traffic athletic sports surfaces such as the softer Mondor and rubberized tracks as well as natural grass fields.

Sideline Protective Turf and Track Mats with or without grommets are an excellent solution for indoor covers for tracks, courts and other surfaces where you are looking for additional protection from excessive and abnormal wear activity. With grommets they can be staked to natural grass surfaces. Also multiple mats can be quickly coupled together using cable ties or bolt and nut attachments.

These mats are an excellent and inexpensive protection for sidelines and track areas where there is an extensive amount of standing and feet shuffling, especially when steel spiked and flat soled shoes are being worn. The mats will help extend the life of any sports surfaces such as natural grass, especially in the high traffic areas like entrances to fields and courts.

Check out the Bench Zone Track Protectors photo album showing them in place at a Nebraska high school football and track complex.

Ready Play Innovative Sports Field Technology

2011-02-03T06:52:00.014-06:00

Baseball and softball fields typically experience water-logged or hard as concrete conditions during the late spring and summer periods. Ready Play^TM, Let the Games Begin, Wolfforth, TX, has developed a patented sports field technology that looks to change the management of the skinned areas of sports fields. The company is only 7 months old according to Calder Hendrickson, CEO, where he manned a trade booth at the annual SportsTurf Managers Association meeting in Austin, TX, on January 14th, 2011.

Three products were on display and the staff went through demonstrations on the trade show floor.

Ready Play Drying Agent^TM, sold in packs of 8, 24"x2"x12", advertised at $149.00. The product absorbs approximately 8 times the amount of typical clay products according to sales staff. Lay it down to allow for saturation, then remove and wring out the water. The pad is expected to hold up for 100 times of use before being replaced.
Ready Play Surface Dry^TM, sold in plastic buckets of 25 pounds each, is advertised at $55.00 per pail. the Surface Dry granules hold up to 8 times its own weight. The sales staff indicated that it will perform equivalent to 250 pounds of Turface or calcined clays. The product is spread over the surface area and can be raked in to help with moisture capturing. The benefits include holding moisture for quicker prep time.
Ready Play Field Magic^TM, sold in 50 pound bags or in bulk, advertised at $89.00 per bag. Sales staff indicated this product will hold 12-15 times its own weight in water which helps reduce the amount watering to maintain a safe playing field. The material should be worked into the top surface area of the playing field. Depending on the amount of material used it can be integrated into the top 2 inches of the skinned area.

The company is looking for distributors for this new product line that will accept delivery for subsequent resale and delivery to customers.

I'm also familiar with a similar performing product called Rain Out, LLC which when applied to a water logged surface needs to be aggressively raked into the sports field skinned area. There is a very instructive video listed from the website.

It is good to see more alternatives for field maintenance operations.

Sports Field Marking and Lining Tools Package

2011-02-01T06:24:00.015-06:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

How to Save Time and Improve Sports Field Marking and Lining Operations

Tru Mark Athletic Field Marker, Norfolk, NE (02/01/2011)

Having a hard time finding the soccer or football field intersections in the fall from the earlier season field marking activities? Does securely holding a string at a corner when field painting seem to be more than a hassle?

Your sports field operations should then consider the Tru Mark Field Marking and Lining Tool Package. By updating and integrating several field marking tools into a package Tru Mark will save the sports field marking and lining staff time when locating and lining the field of play.

The field marking and lining tool package consists of the Field Line Anchor, Turf Stake, and Marking Whisker Plug, in a sets of 4, SKU: 100-179-008, consisting of the following three product SKUs, FLA353, 100-130-004TS, 100-179-006. Now with a zinc plated steel anchor installed at the appropriate locations, a marking whisker plug to quickly visually locate, and a turf stake to secure twine line for paint striping you have all the tools to maintain your sports field lines (other than painting). Add in a time saving string winder and you are set for a year of field marking and lining operations. For the soccer community you can further add the soccer corner and marking flag to your tool set.

By purchasing the Tru Mark Field Marking and Lining Package you'll benefit in a total savings over individually purchasing the tools, $89.97 for a set of 4, with a choice between white or orange marking whiskers.

To better understanding how these tools support different parts of the field marking and lining operations review a Field Line Anchor, Turf Stake, and Marking Whisker Plug photo album.

These Tru Mark Marking Whisker Plugs can also be used separately to mark baseball and softball batter boxes. Locate the intersections once, drill a 3/4" diameter hole approximately 5" deep and then bury the marking whisker plug. You'll no longer have to pull out the batter box template to outline the box, just line up the marking whiskers and go to chalking the lines.

Having a hard time squaring up your field using different size field combinations? Looking for a quick method to layout a sports turf field? Check out the soccer, rugby, lacrosse, and ultimate frisbee layout tools using a MS Excel template to input field dimensions where the tool automatically calculates the distances to the different staking points. You'll achieve a perfectly squared field of play in a fraction of the time!

How to Locate Faded Sports Field Lines--Turf Stress Detection Glasses

2011-01-31T06:49:00.015-06:00

Have you found yourself not getting sports fields lined before the lines get mowed off or faded out, then taking the extra time to restake corners and pulling a string using a string winder to follow and repaint the field(s)? The answer can be found by using turf and plant stress detection glasses and lenses.

During one of the 2011 annual SportsTurf Managers conference educational sessions covering new gadgets and processes a product was highlighted that was first introduced in 2008 to the golf course industry. Space age technology from NASA has given you the ability to spot stressed turf and plants close up and at a distance. Turf and plant stress detection glasses have been introduced by several manufactures/distributors. The special lens removes all the green color from the turf, allowing you to see stressed areas as a lighter color then healthy turf.

How does this apply to sports field line striping? Well this same technology can detect faint painted lines that may be undetectable by the naked eye, especially given the angle of the sun, yet can be spotted through using these lenses. At least one attendee indicated that the turf stress detection glasses have been a superb turf managers time saving tool. This can be even more important when repainting a sports field logo without having to replace and stake a custom sports field stencil.

Turf-Tec International displayed these glasses during the annual 2011 STMA Trade Show, two different priced models. This company is known for introducing new technologies to the golf and sports turf industry.

Other vendors found through a quick internet search included:
Underhill TurfSpy
Forestry Suppliers
Ben Meadows
How do build your own lenses by Dr. Barry Rock from the University of
New Hampshire

Looking for a quick method to layout a sports turf field? Check out the soccer, rugby, lacrosse, and ultimate frisbee layout tools using a MS Excel template to input field dimensions where the tool calculates the distances to the different staking points.

New Turf Maintenance Vendors and Products

2011-01-24T17:21:00.011-06:00

2011 SportsTurf Managers Association Conference and Trade Show included several new vendors and products, at least to Tru Mark, on display.

The Tru Mark Picasa Photo Album has several pictures with captions that should be of interest.

Companies covered in the photo album include:

Aer-flo Products with a new wind weight infield turf protector,
Buffalo Turbine with their plastic shield,
Supaturf from Europe with paint and line stripers,
1st Product Synthetic turf groomer,
Fleet's self-propelled rider and field marker,
Ready to Play infield products for water absorption,
Turftime Equipment infield groomer,
Southern Athletic Fields with several products, and
Bio-S.I. Turf Formula products blended with microbes.

Several other companies were visited that were new to Tru Mark including Waste2Water, Inc. which has been developing and installing various chemical mix, containment and recovery systems. Their equipment and services are receiving increased attention due to sustainability issues, first in the golf course industry and now in the sports turf industry.

SportsGraphics Inc., has been a provider of padding on sports field walls, fences, and where ever player safety is an issue. They have the ability to apply signage to the padding material. They are a Midwest company located in Clarion, IA.

http://picasaweb.google.com/TruMarkAthletic/2011NewFieldMXTools#

SMG SportChamp Synthetic Turf Cleaning and Rejuvenating Tool

2011-01-21T07:21:00.006-06:00

2011 STMA Annual Conference Seminar on Wheels provided the opportunity to witness some new equipment being used on synthetic turf fields. One of the newest additions is the SMG SportChamp synthetic turf cleaning and rejuvenating tool.

This is a German built mechanized riding unit with different accessories. Our SMG SportChamp photo album pictures were taken on the all artificial turf U of.Texas baseball complex. This tool is also used on their new UofT football field installation.

We heard several attendees say this is the best tool on the market to pick up debris while allowing the infield material to fall back on the turf. The rotary brushes do a good job of helping stand up the fibers and agitate the infield to minimize the surface from becoming too hard. The tool can be outfitted with a spraying operation to apply cleaning solutions, antibacterial, and water.

Here's a SMC SportChamp YouTube video that does a good job of explaining the operations and the different accessories.

One comment we heard, since the unit's brush accessory is only about 36 inches wide is it can take close to day to cover a synthetic turf field. The base unit runs in the neighborhood of $60,000 according to the UofT staff plus the cost of the different accessories.

Several companies are now offering this tool as part of their services. One of these US companies has business relationship with SMG and shows a video of the equipment in action.

Several attendees indicated they have or will be negotiating a service contract to have a service company rejuvenate their field(s) on a annual basis.

Service companies:
SportInstall LLC
Astro Turf USA
Panhandle Turf Care, LLC

Sports Turf Managers Tools and "Tool Box"

2011-01-18T16:55:00.009-06:00

2011 Annual STMA Conference offered two Seminar on Wheels programs visiting Texas A&M, College Station community, University of Texas, and Round Rock community sports field management operations and facilities.

We've provided a series of annotated pictures that we believe highlights the profession and in many cases reflect best practices. The photo album shows many of the tools, equipment, and facilities that are used to support sports turf management activities. The university facilities typically had larger storage facilities with more equipment while some of the communities were being flexible with their recreational sports requirements where fields were multi-purpose.

There were several examples of homemade storage and washing stands and shelving to make the sports turf manager and staff's job easier and more efficient. For example there are several images of base cleaning and storage solutions. Marking whisker plugs were used by multiple facilities. Multiple infield rake configurations were observed and facilities stored them on racks and off the floor for quick and easy access.

This was my first opportunity to see the SportCamp synthetic turf cleaning and rejuvenation tool that was positively commented on by several users. A US service company currently uses this tool and has a video of equipment operation that can be downloaded.

http://www.stma.org/_Files/_Items/STMA-MR-TAB6-3749/Docs/2011%20Conf%20Brochure%20Reduced%20size.pdf

http://picasaweb.google.com/TruMarkAthletic/TurfMgrTools#

We would love to hear about your best practices and will be glad to post them for others to adopt.

STMA 2011 Conference -- Expected Attendance Activities

2011-01-09T11:37:00.015-06:00

Tru Mark Athletic Field Marker in the recent past has not displayed at trade shows however there is one conference and education workshop that we try to attend, the annual SportsTurf Managers Association (STMA) conference, and if not the national conference one of the regional or state conferences.

This year I plan to attend the following STMA sessions held in Austin, TX and will hopefully make several different posts on what was learned, what is new, and what was unexpected.
http://www.stma.org/_Files/_Items/STMA-MR-TAB6-3749/Docs/2011%20Conf%20Brochure%20Reduced%20size.pdf
http://www.stma.org/_Files/_Items/STMA-MR-TAB6-3912/Docs/Moderator%20and%20Room%20Assignments.pdf

Here's Tru Mark's proposed agenda:

Tues., Jan. 11, 7 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. - Seminar on Wheels, Texas A&M & Veterans Park, College Station, TX
Wed., Jan. 12, 7 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. - Seminar on Wheels, University of Texas – Austin, Round Rock Express,
and Old Settlers Park
Wed., Jan, 12, 2:00-4:00 pm, New Technology: Gadgets and Gizmos (if time allows)
Wed., Jan, 12, 4:30-5:45 pm, Networking Sessions, decide between Schools K-12 and Parks and Rec
Thur., Jan. 13, 8-10 am, General Session Sports Turf Management: Past, Present and Future
Thur., Jan. 13, 10:30-11:45 am, Sight Turfing: Use Your Turf Eyes to Take Your Field Management Skills to the Next Level
Thur., Jan. 13, 11:00 am – 2:00 pm, So you Want to be a NFL Sports Field Manager? Field Maintenance is Only a Third of your Job, 25 Years as a Sports Turf Manager – What I Wish I Had Known
Thur., Jan. 13, 1:30-2:30 pm, Using Turf Colorants for Green Turf or The Sports Turf Managers Role in the Planning, Design and Construction of a Sports Complex
The Sports Turf Managers Role in the Planning, Design and Construction of a Sports Complex
Thur., Jan. 13, 2:45-4:15 pm, Synthetic Turf Update or A Campus Moving Towards Sustainability
Thur., Jan. 13, 4:15 pm, Trade Show
Thur., Jan. 13, 5:30-7:45 pm, Trade Show - Sports Turfgrasses: Pros and Cons
Fri., Jan. 14, 7:00-7:45 am, (1) Growing Sod In a Parking Lot, (2) Research You Can Use: Seedbanking, Seeding Rates, and Increased Nitrogen Fertility, (3) Sports Turf Injury Research
Fri., Jan. 14, 8:00-10:00 am, Sports Turf Diagnostics or Water Reduction 101 – An Audit Competition or Managing Sports Fields in the Transition Zone
Fri., Jan. 14, 10 am - 2:45 pm, Trade Show
Fri., Jan. 14, 11:30 am , Trade Show - Sports Turfgrasses: Pros and Cons
Fri., Jan. 14, 2:45-3:45 pm, Your Sports Field from Finance to Maintenance or Turfgrass Strategies in a High School Economy
Fri., Jan. 14,, 4:00-5:00 pm, Round Table Discussions, Baseball and Softball Infield Management or Sports Field Diagnostics or Lessons Learned Managing a Highly Visible Facility

Marking Whisker Plug and Anchor -- New product Introduction for 2011

2011-01-08T09:20:00.009-06:00

How to relocate a buried soccer/football corner marker or chalk a batter box without first marking the outline with a metal template?

Tru Mark Athletic Field Marker has taken the marking whisker to the next level, the marking whisker plug and anchor. A 1 1/2" x 3/4" diameter concrete plug/anchor has been added to the 6" marking whisker.

Check out a photo album of the this latest 2011 product introduction.

Tru Mark Marking Whisker Plug and Anchor is designed to be used with the Field Line Anchor or separately with a 3/4" soil or wood auger. It helps field marking staff to quickly locate the Field Line Anchors from season to season. A sturdy concrete formed plug slides into field line anchor exposing 3" of the marking whisker. The marking whisker plug can be pulled and replaced with the soccer corner flag for a quick change over.

Multiple uses for the stand alone Marking Whisker Plug and Anchor:

Minimize the use of a separate box outline tool used for marking the baseball and softball batters box. Mark the four corners using a cordless drill and 3/4" soil or wood auger to drill holes approximately 5 inches deep and slide the Whisker Plug in place and bury behind.
Use this plug and whisker combination for temporary golf tee box marker or outline golf hazards.
Mark underground irrigation sprinkler heads to minimize damage from turf aeration operations.
Designate trail and road race distance locations from event to event.
Schools and community park and recreation officials will accept this non-defacing, low visibility and improved safety product for multiple purposes.

[http://www.athleticfieldmarker.com/products/marking-whiskers/marking-whiskers-plug-6.html]
[http://www.athleticfieldmarker.com/products/anchors/field-line-anchor-marking-whiskers-plug-6.html]

Converting from Aerosol to Bulk Latex Field Marking Paint

2011-01-07T14:57:00.003-06:00

As a field maintenance directory for a soccer club why should I switch from aerosol to bulk latex paint? This is a very common question we receive. Here is a set of questions that are a little more specific from a recent email.

"I am the Field Director for a soccer club in the upper Midwest...I have had this position for 10 years now...I line over 100 soccer fields each week in season, spring and fall. I have been using the spray cans (about 700 cases of 12- 18oz cans) and am looking to upgrade to a riding sprayer. Your Tru Mark RS 500M with the mower deck intrigues me... I am also interested in how often the machine has to be cleaned up, what is the process... how much water is used for dilution of the paint? Can I use paint supplied locally?"

We have had numerous customers realize the benefit of transitioning from aerosol to bulk latex field marking paint. Given the number of fields you are striping you should come close to paying for the equipment in one–two years by using bulk latex paint, normally there is a 35% savings of paint when you switch. Besides the supply cost savings many customers have indicated they get the field stripped in less time and the lines hold up better due the better coverage.

I’m referencing several informational items, one the different field marking equipment technologies and the other on bulk latex paint. We’ve had customers use very inexpensive flat exterior latex house paint for their operations. Most will use a good or better quality field marking paint which is designed not to harm the grass while increasing the “brightness” through use of titanium dioxide.
http://www.athleticfieldmarker.com/docs/How-to-Select-a-Field-Marker.pdf
http://www.athleticfieldmarker.com/acrylic-latex-paint/
http://www.athleticfieldmarker.com/field-paint-tests/

For example most soccer fields will use about 6 gallons of diluted paint (diluted 1 to 1, or 3 gallons of paint for a very inexpensive brand of paint) to mark a full sized soccer field.

When using bulk latex paint you normally do not want to dilute the paint until it will be used, otherwise most paints have a tendency to separate. Most paints are diluted the day of use or in some cases within a couple hours of use. There are now paints being marketed as ready to use, no mixing with water, or there are concentrates where you can produce up to 10 gallons of diluted paint from one gallon of concentrate. We handle both types of formulates as well as some of the more traditional formulations. These are the SwitchBack formulations. We use a paint paddle with an cordless drill to mix the paint before dilution and as part of the mixing process. These can be found at most paint stores that sell paint in 5-gallon pails. You’ll find paint stores handling field marking paint in your area, for example both Sherwin Williams and Menards offer field marking paints that in the past have worked well with the 12-volt diaphragm pump technology.
http://www.athleticfieldmarker.com/products/paint.html

The clean-up process requires the draining of the paint storage tanks and rinsing (using the rinse water for next paint operation) using clean water through the pumps and hoses. The spray tips and in-line check valves (just ahead of the spray tip to prevent dripping) are removed and cleaned. Most customer have an extra set or two so they can replace them immediately and clean the “dirty” ones at their convenience. We also recommend running a product called pump protector/saver during the final rinse cycle (only about $10/32 ounce container) diluted 1-2 ounces per gallon of water. This solution helps keep any residual paint in suspension thus reducing the paint build-up, especially on the pump valve kit (inside the pump head on the 12-volt pump). See my latest picture description on the replacement and inspection of the valve and diaphragm kit.
http://picasaweb.google.com/TruMarkAthletic/ShurfloPumpRepairInstructions#
This is the same pump used on the RS-500 models.

The Model RS-500M is designed for those organizations that don’t have much control over the general mowing operations of their fields. The user can mow a strip, say ½” shorter than normal mowing height operations, then line strip with paint. This will reduce the number of times the lines get mowed thus helping to preserve the line longer. Most lines disappear due to mowing rather than the degrading of the paint. Normally you like to restripe before you lose the line so you don’t have to pull a string again.

The chassis for the three RS-500 models is the Snapper Rear Engine Rider units with an upgraded Briggs & Stratton engine to support the increase amperage requirements for the 12-volt diaphragm pumps (low volume low pressure) which minimize safety problems with higher pressure pump solutions. These models are outfitted with two (2) 20 gallon tanks, each serviced by a 12-volt pump that are independently controlled while the overall paint striping operation is controlled on the steering wheel. You produce better quality lines with both pumps running but can get by with only using one (only needing to stripe a couple field so only filling one tank with diluted paint or using different colors in the tanks).

Here’s the digital version of a marketing brochure.
http://www.eselling4u.com/TruMark/Tru_Mark_RS-500_Riders.pdf
http://www.athleticfieldmarker.com/products/self-propelled-striper.html
http://www.athleticfieldmarker.com/products/self-propelled-striper/tru-mark-model-rs-500m-with-mower-athletic-field-marker.html

Here’s a photo album of one of the original units put into service in 2000, the RS-500 standard unit with line spraying unit below the operator (old, no-longer offered chassis). http://picasaweb.google.com/TruMarkAthletic/NPSFieldMarker#
Here’s a photo album of the RS-500F unit with line spraying unit in front of the operator (no mower deck).
http://picasaweb.google.com/TruMarkAthletic/FieldMarkerDeliveryMN2009#
Here’s a RS-500M unit that was used as part of filming operation.
http://picasaweb.google.com/TruMarkAthletic/WestVirginiaLottery#
Here’s a photo album of a standard configuration introduced in 2007 that allows the diluted paint to flow from the bottom of the tank to the pumps which are mounted below the tank brackets. This ensures excellent pump priming operations.
http://picasaweb.google.com/TruMarkAthletic/RS500IntakeLineUpgradeKitBottom#

The pricing on the RS-500M Self-propelled Rider field marker would be $7,195.00 which includes shipping and handling. Given your location the company may have personnel deliver and provide up to 2 hours of orientation and demonstration. We need 3-4 weeks from the order before the unit is shipped. For soccer clubs we have a couple different payment options. One that seems to work well is a 50% down payment at the time of order and the remaining balance on delivery. We could offer you several pails of paint with delivery of unit. For example our most popular paint is the SwitchBack Ground Boss formulation which is typically diluted at 2:1 or 3:1 (water to paint) ratios ($59.50/pail your cost). We also suggest purchasing the RS-500 Field Kit which includes the common replacement parts that you would use in the course of as season or year (spray tips, check valves, caps, valve kit, restriction plug (in the return line), in-line screen)($149.95).
http://www.athleticfieldmarker.com/products/paint/switchback-ground-boss-natural-turf-white-5-gallons.html
http://www.athleticfieldmarker.com/products/kits-field-and-upgrade.html

Tru Mark Winter Sales -- Graco FieldLazer & Marking Whisker with Raptor Stakes

2011-01-03T07:52:00.006-06:00

Tru Mark will again be posting sales items on a monthly or quarterly basis.

January 2011 starts out with a sale on Marking Whiskers with Raptor Stakes. These are priced at a 10% saving for the standard set of 25 each (whisker and stake) and in sets of 3 and 5 for those larger field marking operations. These field marking tools been customer favorite as the Raptor Stakes will minimize damage to field maintenance equipment if for some reason the stake becomes exposed. This is a one month sale so get your order in before January 31st.

Graco FieldLazer is our other sale item starting out 2011, now available for $2,099.00 plus a small handling charge of $16.95. You save $200 on the newest sale item. We especially like the this unit for striping synthetic turf fields as it produces sufficient pump head pressure to atomize the non-diluted paint. The tall hard rubber 3-wheel configuration provides for accurate line striping on these smooth surfaces. This is a 3 month sale so get your school grounds and athletic department and city facility and park and recreation purchase orders submitted before March 31st.

When you complete an online order for either a Tru Mark Light Weight or Heavy Duty String Winder we'll include a set of Tru Mark Turf Stakes. These versatile marking stakes are made from a 1/4" fiberglass rod and a 3" tall rubber handle to support pushing the stake into the turf or skinned area of baseball and softball playing surface. Ensure you make note of "Tru Mark Turf Stake Promotion" in the on-line order comment section.

Survey Marking Whisker Used for Race Course/Trail Path

2010-12-28T07:58:00.009-06:00

How to leave a small footprint when marking a race course?

More and more community organizations are sponsoring road races that range from 1 mile to a marathon. During the course layout which requires some exacting standards that have been specified by the USA Track and Field Course Certification program there are typical distance milestones that need to be marked for subsequent use.

More municipalities are establishing marking standards that minimize the use of products that may impact the environment and aesthetics of a street, sidewalk, trail, and park. While many courses directors have used a concrete/masonary nail and washer and stencil painted markings, these are being shunned by more communities.

One of the solution race organizers are turning to are survey marking whiskers that are also being used for sports field marking. These 6" bundles of nylon threads held by a adjustable horse shoe like clasp can be placed in turf and path locations. Using a 60 penny nail (6" length) or a composite 6" staking spike these nylon marking whiskers can be hammered into the softer surface.

The 6" nylon marking whiskers can be easily trimmed to a desired length using a side cutting hand tool although a mower blade will eventually shorten them. Once these units are installed they will more be difficult to remove over time, especially those used with a 60 penny nail. The composite staking spike produced by Raptor Spikes will not adversely damage mowing and maintenance equipment even if they are removed from the ground.

Tru Mark packages these marking whiskers, 60 penny nails, and composite nails in sets of 25 each. For additional saving these can be purchased in sets of 3 and 5 of 25 packages each.

During the initial layout of the race course the milestones markings can identified using the Tru Mark Turf Stakes with Marking Whiskers. The staff then can follow behind using a hammer and staking solution to semi-permanently mark the location.

Another temporary marking solution could include the use of aerosol chalk or bulk liquid chalk. Similar to the application of aerosol paint, however the aerosol chalk is a much more temporary. Once this product dries, normally within 30 minutes, the chalk application performs similar to the dry chalk products that you typically see used on baseball and softball fields. With foot scuffing and water the chalk can be quickly removed, except where applied on more porous surface. The bulk liquid chalk is diluted with equal parts of water and applied with an airless sprayer which could be as simple as a hand pump-up sprayer or an electric backpack sprayer.

Shurflo Pump Repair and Inspection Instructions

2010-12-24T10:10:00.007-06:00

Two of the great advantages of using a 12-Volt diaphragm pump technology in field marking operations are the relative ease and low cost of maintenance.
[http://picasaweb.google.com/TruMarkAthletic/ShurfloPumpRepairInstructions#]

The Shurflo 12-volt diaphragm pumps have been an industry standards in the boating, RV, restaurant, agricultural spraying industries for many years. As long as you are using water soluble materials then you'll have many hours of successful operations.

When replacement parts are needed the instructions for replacing the Shurflo 3.3 GPM Diaphragm and Valve Kits are straightforward with simple hand tools.

Please refer to the Shurflo Pump Repair and Inspection Instruction photo album to walk you through the maintenance steps. The 22 photos show the different parts of the pump.

Because field marking equipment use acrylic latex paint formulations it is almost impossible to remove all the paint residue during the clean-up process. Therefor the diaphragm pump will gradually accumulate paint material on the valve parts of the diaphragm pump. When the paint build-up becomes significant the pump performance will degrade which is observed by poor pump priming operations and lower pressure (narrowing of the paint spray fan at the spray tips).

We recommend that during the rinse cycle and also during storing between use and seasons that a "pump saver" or "pump protector" is incorporated. This material is diluted at 1-2 ounces per gallon of clean water and can remain in the unit without adverse impact. Maintaining a wet pump head will improve the pump priming and also will help residual paint to stay in suspension and get flushed during the next use.

The Shurflo 3.3 GPM no-flow control diaphragm pumps are used on the Model E-100 walk behind and the three RS-500 self-propelled rider field markers. The Model EZ-70 walk-behind field marker uses a smaller capacity 1.46 GPM Shurflo no-flow control 12-volt diaphragm pump.

Synthetic Turf Installation and Maintenance Tips

2010-12-20T10:48:00.005-06:00

Synthetic turf installation and maintenance activities continue to generate increased interest by the park and recreation industry, customers, and users. National Park and Recreation Association held a synthetic turf workshop at their annual convention in Baltimore, MD, October 2008.

What is the true cost of these installations and the maintenance costs was a theme during this workshop held at the Baltimore Ravens football stadium on October 21, 2008. The workshop was hosted by Jeanette M. S. Tansey, Baltimore County Department of Recreation and Parks, with presenters including Jeffrey L. Bruce, President, Jeffrey L. Bruce & Company, LLC, a national landscape architectural firm, and Graham Hayes, CEO, Dedicated Operational Contracting, LLC.

Jeff Bruce covered some of the critical decisions in installing a new synthetic turf systems. There are four primary areas that a customer should ensure is part of the project,
1) hiring an engineer that is familiar with the soil types and synthetic turf installation in your area,
2) ensuring that an experience construction company with establishing a base for the turf carpet has been hired,
3) a reputable turf product has been selected for the environment and type of play expected, and
4) an experienced turf installer that has a reputation of not having to come back for repairs on seams.

The presenters emphasized that the Sports Turf Managers Association's Synthetic and Natural Turf Grass Guide as a valuable tool.

Graham Hayes stated that because many of these fields are installed between Memorial and Labor Day the crews on site experience tremendous schedule pressures. It is imperative to have a knowledgeable inspector on site to verify compliance with specifications, e.g, soil base is laser leveled, rock base meets particle size and depth and is packed, sand infield mixture with crumb rubber, trenches are properly filled and packed, amount and type of glue used, etc.

They re-emphasized that the synthetic turf fields are not maintenance free and require activities to maintain their warranty clauses.

Many of the existing turf problems are attributed to poor base construction, in appropriate infield material application and mixture, not maintaining the appropriate infield depth (turf fiber laying over thus wearing much quicker and being exposed to UV which degrades them), allowing problem seams becoming a big maintenance issue, etc.

It was highly recommended that during budgeting for a turf system that yearly maintenance be included, possibly a maintenance contractor visiting on-site at least yearly and be done in conjunction with the general contractor's annual site visit.

The workshop concluded with a walk-through of the facilities to include maintenance facilities, turf field, sky box, and press box.

At the time there was discussion on use of removable turf field paint products for multi-purpose fields. One concern is how quickly this would cause wear on the turf fibers from being manually or mechanically agitated after a removal agent is applied to help break down the paint quicker. Several members at the workshop noted that most of the removable paint products have a corresponding cleaning agent that properly matches up with the chemical properties of the paint formulation. The wear issue was not necessarily the primary issue, rather the ghosting effect from not being able to remove all the residual paint, especially when a infield material is used, is a bigger issue. More than one person mentioned that is better to under apply than over apply the turf field marking paint to reduce the ghosting effect.

Marking Trails with Removal Paint/Chalk Products

2010-12-14T04:26:00.004-06:00

Once in a while we get a question concening a marking application that is not directly related to sports field marking yet may be solved by using field marking products.

Brian posted the following situation, "I am looking for a paint I can apply in a non-sports application. It is for an outdoor trail that is a combination of gravel and asphalt. The trail will
be used for 6 hours. After use, I would prefer something that will wash away over time via foot traffic and weather without having to wash it off.

Also, I'd like something I can apply with a paint roller or traditional paint sprayer. We will not be painting straight lines but rather patterns.

Any suggestions?"

Here's a couple options that we offered to Brian that may help solve his requirement.

You can purchase our aerosol chalk product to include a colored aerosol chalk that is a temporary application. With the T-tip nozzle you can free hand the chalk application. Each can will cover approximately 200 linear feet of striping. This product performs like typical dry chalk that is applied to sports fields. Once it dries, in less than 30 minutes, it can be removed by foot abrasion or water.

If you have access to a pump-up sprayer that is used for pesticide applications you can apply diluted Tru Mark Switchback Double Play bulk liquid chalk. This product comes in 5-gallon pails and is diluted one part water and one part liquid chalk (1:1). After mixing pour into your pump-up sprayer or battery operated backpack sprayer and you are ready to spray patterns on your trail.

Not as temporary but just as safe is diluted external flat latex house paint. As with bulk liquid chalk the paint can be applied with a pump-up sprayer. I would dilute the paint at least 1 gallon of paint to 1 gallon of water. You can achieve about 100 square feet per diluted gallons or about 300 linear feet.

Just ensure you mix the liquid chalk/paint well before mixing in water. I would use a paint paddle with a cordless or electric drill to ensure good mixing. We would be glad to sell you some field marking paint however you'll get about the same performance for external flat latex house paint (Tru Mark's SwitchBack Cheat Seats) for your non-sports surface.

Even in a diluted formulation you should have good success with a paint roller. The
paint will dissipate quicker due to weather and traffic when it is diluted.

I hope this helps.

On-line Photo Album Versus Printed Marketing Material--Athletic Field Marker

2010-12-09T07:16:00.006-06:00

Many of manufacturers and vendors have a hard time being able to provide demonstrations to prospective customers. In many cases other customers can be very helpful in explaining field marking operations with the equipment being considered. It is even better if the two groups can get together to share the benefits of the product in question.

Tru Mark continues to try and help prospective customers better understand the advantage of our product offering through testimonials and marketing material. As they say a picture is worth a thousand words, well here at Tru Mark Athletic Field Marker we try and always carry a camera to catch some of the important capabilities and unique features in digital image format. It helps to share some of these examples for clarification purposes.

When customers step up to the proposition of purchasing a self-propelled riding field marker they will be committing a significant amount of money initially. The expectation is the customer will achieve a cost savings over the long term when in comes to personnel resources as well as supplies. Some of the more subtle concerns may not be apparent between competing solutions.

Some of these concerns involve how easy is it to find repair parts and service in the local area of this unit. How easy is it for the operator to fill the unit as well as clean out the unit. Another question that comes up is can I mix the paint after it is poured into the unit versus mixing in 5-gallon pails or larger containers before hand and after the unit sets over a lunch break. What type of paint coverage can I expect? Will I need to overstripe? These are just a few examples of what a operator is interested in versus what the purchasing agent might be considering.

Many times some of these concerns can be covered by a visual presentation, such as a on-line photo album. Here again Tru Mark incorporates some of the new on-line features to help tell our story.

For example, here are a list of photo albums depicting the Model RS-500 series field marker. We would appreciate your comments on these images.
http://picasaweb.google.com/TruMarkAthletic/FieldMarkerDeliveryMN2009#
http://picasaweb.google.com/TruMarkAthletic/NPSFieldMarker#
http://picasaweb.google.com/TruMarkAthletic/WestVirginiaLottery#
http://picasaweb.google.com/TruMarkAthletic/RS500IntakeLineUpgradeKitBottom#

Multi-purpose SandBags for Sports, Trade Shows, Vehicles, Facilities and more

2010-12-06T11:52:00.010-06:00

Over the course of 5 years Tru Mark has introduced a series of multi-purpose and versatile sandbags that are shipped without the ballast material. The sandbags are made with waterproof and UV protected material and sewn with high quality material used for outside awnings and truck tarps. A inner bag is placed inside the sandbag to hold the ballast material secure so there is very little chance of spillage or contamination from environmental conditions. The inner bag is securely closed and tucked inside the sandbag prior to the sandbag being sealed using the Velcro closure.

These sandbags first started out as an easy tool to keep a T-ball plate in place while the participant hits the ball off the vertical pedestal. This was the introduction of the 10 pound sandbag with 6 inch nylon strap, Velcro closure, and a bag insert to minimize any spillage and contamination. This bag is a good fit for holding down trade show displays, camera and lighting tripods, door stops, and vehicle chocks.

The 20 pound sandbag was the next introduction with similar features to include a grommet that ensures a secure closure when using a cable tie. This 20 pound sandbag is ideal for field tarps, sports field stencils, indoor sports training aids, a tent canopy, small environmental barriers, and holding down tool benches and tables.

Soon after customer feedback helped Tru Mark produce the 45 pound sandbag that is similar in dimensions to the 10 pound sandbag, just much longer, 70 inches long, for holding down pool covers and tarps as well as environmental barrier.

The 2008 new year brought another round of Tru Mark product introductions, the newest sand bag barrier products. The two new additions were created based on customer feedback and requirements.

The 35 pound Inter-Lock Barrier (IB) sand bag is a modified 10 pound sand bag as if two had been sewn together. This new design improves the stacking integrity of multiple sand bags. This increases the barrier affect to the ballast material from environmental contamination thus allowing for multiple uses without suffering from growing organisms. The vinyl laminated fabric is even stronger than the earlier sand bag versions. It is easy to clean up and store. The 6 inch carrying strap allows for quick and easy relocation. Because of the side by side design this sand bag is ideal for holding down a soccer goal by laying it down with the center of the bag parallel and overlapping the horizontal ground bars.

35 Pound Sand Bag, 14" wide x 25" long plus 6" nylon web carrying strap. Two separate compartments provide interlocking capability when bags are stacked. Two inner plastic bags for securing on-site material within the bag before closure. Velcro closure at carrying strap end. The fabric material consists of a yellow vinyl laminate. When filled the sand bag is 22" long by 10" wide by 3.5" thick.

The 55 pound barrier sand bag was specifically designed for protecting a standard 35 inch wide doorway from encroaching water conditions. The additional weight allows for holding heavier objects in place.

55 Pound Sand Bag, 10" wide x 38" long plus 6" nylon web carrying strap. Inner plastic bag provided for securing on-site material within the bag before closure. Grommet and Velcro closure at carrying strap end. Fabric material is red aqua marine. When filled the sand bag is 36" long by 6.5" wide by 5.5" thick.

Outlining a Custom Stencil with Battery Hand Sprayer--Graco ProShot

2010-12-04T11:57:00.012-06:00

How do you outline a custom stencil quickly without using aerosol paint?

When using aerosol paint to outline a custom field stencil one of the adverse impacts is that the aerosol paint will have a tendency to cause the sheet plastic to curl around the edges. Mike Hebrard, Athletic Field Design, has been using the Graco ProShot airless battery operated hand sprayer to outline the field stencils he uses at customer sites. He uses the same field marking paint that will be used as part of painting the overall stencil. Other than the initial expense of the hand sprayer he can eliminate the need to use aerosol paint on the job site.

I found the a good overview of the product at the following blog post on the Graco ProShot. Here are a couple YouTube videos of the unit in operation on a indoor paint job, setup and door painting. Here's another forum post with comments from different users. It appears that you should buy the unit that allows for installing the rebuild kit.

This tool could be very handy when painting soccer, lacrosse, rugby, field hockey and football goals, especially applying the primer and then following up with the appropriate color. This has to be much quicker then using a paint roller or brush. I could even see using this tool to brighten up brown out areas on turf by applying a turf colorant. Another use of this tool is apply liquid chalk lines where a long traditional chalk box might be used.

One feature that will be extremely beneficial is the Tilt-N-Spray 32 oz [.95 L] Paint Cup with Adjustable Suction Tube. This will allow you to dispense the paint at a steep angle when spraying turf, especially for the field stencils.

Although this is not a pressure washer I could see using this tool with Simple Green cleaning solution for removing latex paint on field striping equipment or applying a light layer of oil to hand tools to minimize rust buildup. I have some liquid deicer that I may try applying with this unit so check back once I complete the test over the winter.

Sports Field Logos -- Ellipse and Star Formulas for Free Hand Painting Without Stencils

2010-12-02T09:43:00.008-06:00

During annual Sports Turf Managers Association (STMA) conference there are workshops to help grounds maintenance staff save time and money for their organizations. One of the more recent "how to" work shops covered field marking strategies without using manufactured field stencils.

Mike Hebrard, Athletic Field Design, has described in more detail two formulas for two very common shapes that you'll likely paint on sports fields. The formulas require that you know the traditional measurements of the shapes beforehand and then have string and stakes (and a tape measure) available to layout the dimensions of the stencils before you paint them.

Check out these ellipse/oval and star/pentagon freehand formula descriptions.

Enhance your facility operations and improve community ownership and pride by painting logos on your sports fields.

If you have a more elaborate logo that you would like us consider please forward by email a high quality digital image of the logo with the approximate size you are considering and we'll provide you a free size and price quote.

Our flexible sheet plastic stencils are manufactured from agricultural tough material and proper care provide for long life, 8.5/10.0 mil thickness. They come shipped like a bed sheet in sizes approximately 2' x 2' square. The staff has over 10 years experience verifying a design associated with an appropriate size and complexity and then cutting stencils.

Synthetic Sports Turf Fields -- Temporary Line Marking Solutions

2010-11-24T14:20:00.008-06:00

We've received several emails over the last six months concerning adding temporary marking lines to existing synthetic turf fields.

For example here's the question from Scott, "One question I have about synthetic fields. Say you have a football-lined synthetic field and you want to run three youth soccer fields cross-ways once a week. Is there any way to mark the field quickly (some type of tape, chalk, paint) and on a temporary basis (play football the next day)?"

I could offer several options to help him, yet he gave me some very performance oriented statements, "mark quickly", "temporary basis", and "next day".

The "next day" requirement is critical to the solution set as well as how much manpower and equipment you have on hand to do the removal process.

Here's what Tru Mark Athletic Field Marker suggests as a course of action.

Given your requirements my proposed solution would be to use aerosol chalk. It goes down like aerosol paint but after it dries it performs like traditional powdered chalk (marble dust or calcium carbonate). You can use a typical floor and sidewalk brush to remove the line. You may want to spray it down with water, especially if you are doing this every week over a season.

Another option is the use of a new product from Tru Mark Switchback Double Play liquid bulk chalk, diluted 1:1, for application with an airless line striper such as the Model E-100. The product performs similar to a powdered chalk once it dries. Foot traffic will cause the line to dissipate as well as water application, all without having to use a cleaning agent.

You can use the bulk or aerosol removable/temporary paint but this requires more manual labor and/or mechanical equipment along with a cleaning solution to remove the the painted
temporary line. TrailBlazer Rally Day would be the bulk latex paint solution we would recommend, a removable paint solution along with the removal agent TrailBlazer Trail Wash.

Another possibility is using a temporary, reusable field lining system such as Port-a-Field by CS Platinum Sport Products and Tru Mark's Sand Bag product line for anchoring the corners.

We hope this helps.

Midwest Rake Sports Field Maintenance Products Now Offered by Tru Mark

2010-11-22T15:30:00.015-06:00

We are glad to offer a new sports field maintenance product line from Midwest Rake. We have witnessed these products first had in our local baseball field operations and on many equipment deliveries to site across the country. We recognize the quality designed in the the product as as well as the material and manufacturing that go into producing the field tools, especially the different field rakes.

The following products will be added our our website in the near future.
Baseball and Softball Infield, Grading, and Landscaping Rakes, Tamps, Hoes, Grooming Brooms, Trencher/Edgers


Field Rake	Dual Purpose	Great Rake	Base Runner	ProTurf Lute	Chisel Tooth

Midwest Rake Features improve longevity, control, and operator performance.

Powder-Coated Aluminum Handles--Powder-coated handles make a difference. A high quality polyblend powder-coating formula is bonded to our durable aluminum handles, providing a superior grip when the tool is wet, blister reduction, and greater durability compared to vinyl coated or painted handles. Our grips, many of which are “double dipped”, provide comfort and tool control.
“Wrap-Around” and Bolted Through Bracing Design
Original designer and manufacturer of this heavy-duty bracing system - a very popular system that others have tried to copy.
The “Original” bolted through wrap-around bracing.
Handle hugging design distributes stress across the surface of the handle, reducing movement and wear at the brace-to-handle connection.
Some handles use a solid aluminum plug in the head-to-handle connection, unlike other brands that use wood or plastic plugs, or even no plug at all.
Use a high-grade engineered aluminum/magnesium alloy, selected for its durability and strength.

Field Rake--Engineered to the specifications of landscapers and professional baseball grounds crews, the extended grading edge on this rake was designed specifically for leveling.

24/30/36/42/48" High-Grade Aluminum Head with High Striking Edge

Non-Gouging Rounded Teeth

66" Long 1-1/8" Diameter Blue/Yellow Powder-Coated Aluminum Handle with 6" Green Non-Slip Vinyl Grip

Double Play Rake (Dual Purpose)--This innovative and versatile tool has two teeth designs. The short teeth are used to break up hard-packed clay, while the long teeth are for wet clay and general raking.

17/24/36" High-Grade Aluminum Head
60/66" Long 1-1/8" Diameter Blue/Red Powder-Coated Aluminum Handle with 6" Green Non-Slip Vinyl Grip
Wrap-Around Bracing
Exclusive 2 Teeth-Style Design

Great Rake II--this is a “great rake” for raking and leveling skinned areas on any ball field. The long curved teeth provide more efficient grading on the backstroke, while the deep grading edge allows for superior leveling.

24/30/36/42/48" High-Grade Aluminum Head with Deep Grading Edge
66" Long Ergonomic Oval Red Powder-Coated Aluminum Handle with 6" Black Non-Slip Vinyl Grip
Wrap-Around Bracing (clamp style: bolt does not pierce handle)
This rake has longer teeth with curved claw tips for more raking surface and easier, smoother pushing-pulling motion.

Base Runner--The Professional’s Choice... a Field Rake with a telescopic handle. Knocks down for easy storage. The perfect tool for grooming infields and beach volleyball courts.

24/30/36" High-Grade Aluminum Head with High Striking Edge
Non-Gouging Rounded Teeth
39" - 70" Double-Lock Telescoping Handle with 6-1/2" Black Non-Slip Vinyl Grip
Milled Threaded Aluminum Tip
Size include Gusset Bracing
Telescoping Handle allows for easy storage

ProTurf Lute--This lightweight, heavy-duty lute combines an engineered head design with strong wrap-around bracing and is perfect for spreading gravel or for grading soil.

24/30/36" Aluminum / Magnesium Alloy Head
66/82" Long 1-1/8" Diameter Blue Powder-Coated Aluminum Handle with 6" Green Non-Slip Vinyl Grip
39" - 70" Double-Lock Telescoping Handle with 6-1/2" Black Non-Slip Vinyl Grip
Wrap-Around Bracing
Lightweight, Strong, and Durable Aluminum / Magnesium Alloy Head

Chisel-Tooth Rake--The aggressive chisel-sharp teeth and forward grading edge set this rake apart from our others. It is an excellent choice for penetrating and breaking up hard soils.

24/30/36/42/48" High-Grade Aluminum Head with Striking Edge
66" Long 1-1/8" Diameter Blue Powder-Coated Aluminum Handle with 6" Green Non-Slip Vinyl Grip
Wrap-Around Bracing
The extra-thick chisel teeth and forward grading edge of this rake withstand heavy professional use when working with hard soils, asphalt, concrete, stone, and other heavy materials

Small Engine Tachometer & Hour Meter--Used on Briggs & Stratton

2010-11-22T10:05:00.003-06:00

During small engine setup and preventive maintenance procedures do you verify the revolutions per minute (RPM) setting to ensure optimum performance? Have you considered using a small tool to verify the engine RPMs and hourly usage? We found an inexpensive tool to help setup the "governor" on a Briggs & Stratton 17.5 HP Overhead Valve (OHV) 4-cycle single piston drive unit for our RS-500F Out-in-Front Athletic Field Marking unit.

We are using the Tiny-Tach, standard model with reset feature, TT226R-2C, by Design Technology, Inc. This easy to implement unit can be connected to an engine using existing housing bolts/screws, a standard grounding wire for a common connection point, and a RPM sensing wire that is wrapped around the spark plug wire. We use this Tiny-Tach tool to verify that we are generating sufficient RPMs for battery charging in support of our 12-volt diaphragm pump operations. This is a valuable tool for Briggs & Stratton distributors and small engine repair specialists as it is offered in their B&S distributor catalog. Here are a couple features that make this a sure bet for small engine operations:

Simple hour meter with tachometer that is just 1.5" tall by 3" wide
RPM to 9,990 (we were looking for 3,600 RPMs on the B&S engine)
Reset for the hour meter so we could transfer to other units as necessary
Updates every 2.5 seconds
Standard wire length is 6 feet for flexibility in securing the unit
Estimated battery life is 5+ years
One year warranty

We ordered directly from the website for $36.95 plus shipping and handling.

This should be one of those important yet inexpensive small engine tools for your overall tool kit inventory.

Soccer Facility and Field Operations--Tools & Equipment

2010-11-17T16:07:00.005-06:00

Have you ever visited another soccer facility and picked up some great operational tips?

Tru Mark Athletic Field Marker visited the Portage Soccer Complex at 4422 Bishop Rd., Portage MI 49002. This community facility has been well designed and maintained with excellent field drainage, a central building for registrations, meetings, concessions and facility operations and maintenance, and hard surface parking with curbs. Field operations are primarily conducted by some dedicated volunteers, the ones I met were Vern Genisio and David Rice.

The Portage Soccer Complex is home to Portage Soccer Club and the AYSO Region 74. The complex has expanded with access to additional fields next door and a new indoor complex, Portage Soccer Zone.

With delivery of a Tru Mark self-propelled Model RS-500F Vern Genisio is incorporating another time and supply saving tool to his operations. He mentioned that the complex had invested in a new tractor to handle their aeration duties as well as their new pull behind mower. They recently invested in a deep tine aeration with sand top-dressing service to help with a two fields that weren't draining as well as expected.

More recently the soccer program has incorporated the use of field marking whiskers (white) to mark all the soccer field intersections that are used for staking, pulling string, and the line striping. They have included different colored marking whiskers to mark a field within a field.

Storage is always a challenge at most sport facilities. The Portage Soccer Complex has some well thought out and installed tools to help with their daily operations and year around storage requirements. From soccer goal nets to tool storage the facility personnel have integrated some space and time saving features.

Check out Vern's many Portage Soccer Complex facility operational and maintenance tools and equipment.

Review some additional images of the Portage Soccer Complex and the RS-500F Field Marking Operations. See how easy the unit is filled with field marking paint, the foot pedal operations, the floating paint shoe assembly in action, and "making a straight line in less time".

Please share your time saving tips and tricks.

Synthetic Turf Options -- More Things to Consider

2010-11-09T06:46:00.003-06:00

The citizens of Norfolk, NE passed a bond issue that will include a synthetic turf field at the Memorial Field complex that will support football and soccer programs for three local high schools.

This is a continuing discussion from an earlier post.

Concerning the turf field for Memorial Field, by selecting the engineering firm is the community then tied to a particular turf vendor? One thing we don’t want to see is a turf vendor writing the specifications and thus eliminating competitors. I highly recommend that minimum standards be used so if a vendor that cannot supply a “lower quality” product can still be considered. Also I recommend that there be an evaluation criteria that considers product/installation cost versus warranty, longevity, maintenance (cost per year). For example, a vendor that supplies a field for $600,000 that has 10 year warranty (and requires more maintenance) will be more expensive than a vendor that supplies a $690,000 field that has a 12 year warranty that requires less maintenance ($60K/yr. versus $57.5K/yr.).

Since the bond is for 20 years, most if not all turf vendors cannot provide a turf surface warranty for much more than 12 years (most are only 10 years)(although some new technology surfaces depending on traffic may hold up well beyond 12 years). So hopefully the replacement costs have been figured into the 20 year bond program.

I just learned that a particular infield product, specialized flex sand, does not need any grooming or addition material for eight years (will cost an additional $1/sq ft.) versus crumb rubber that needs multiple grooming cycles (and additional material added) during the playing seasons. This flex sand can be reused whereas crumb rubber is unlikely to be used for a subsequent replacement turf field.

The industry experts are indicating that many turf fields can be installed for about $5/sq ft, however this typically doesn’t include a complete curbing system (holds the turf at the edges of the field) that runs $50K-70K and any special drainage system around the edge of the field. Also a good rule of thumb for a combination football/soccer field is to figure on 90,000 sq ft.

I heard that a current turf field installed in New York City is hosting 500 events a year.

Will the high school booster clubs be given an opportunity to offset the cost of installing schools logos on the field? I could see local businesses helping to support such a customized field appearance. Has the City’s “branding study” been completed? If so has a City Logo been selected so that it could be potentially added to the end zone areas? (Could you see putting the community’s name sake in the end zone or “Veterans Field”?)

Field Marking Paints for All Sports Field Surfaces

2010-11-07T06:50:00.006-06:00

Tru Mark Athletic Field Marker introduced field marking paints for natural and synthetic turf sports fields. Bulk latex and aerosol paint as well as liquid bulk and aerosol chalk are now available for both natural grass and synthetic turf surfaces.

Synthetic turf paint and chalk products solve almost all the facility manager's field marking painting requirements. Bulk latex paints are formulated for one game, multi-game, season-long, or permanent field marking. Aerosol paint for synthetic turf marking are now available. Both paint application solutions can be used for indoor and outdoor facilities.

The latest introduction in line striping coverage technology is the liquid bulk chalk and aerosol chalk products. These temporary marking solutions are becoming very popular for multi-sports facility managers as they minimize the removal and paint build-up/ghosting issues as well as reducing the need for cleaning the synthetic turf surfaces.

Paint removing agents are also available to help with the removal process from synthetic turf surfaces. Water and surface agitation (short bristle brush) along with a cleaning agent have been demonstrated to effectively remove the temporary paints. The Solar Wash cleaning agent is also formulated to help remove the permanent field marking paint.

Several companies are now offering mechanized cleaning tools for removing paint from synthetic turf surfaces. You might check on the hand-held rotary brooms from Stihl KB Bristle Brush. Also verify with the synthetic turf manufacturing that the cleaning equipment will satisfy warranty requirements.

The Graco FieldLazer sports field line striper has been shown to be more than an adequate field striper for the bulk latex paint application on synthetic fields where the paint should not be diluted. Although the striper does not create the recommended pound per square inch pressure it does procedure sufficient paint atomization for coverage on nylon, polypropylene, and polyethylene turf surfaces. Check out our photo album blog posting on the FargoDome North Dakota demonstration.

We would be interested in hearing your experiences with field marking paint for both natural and synthetic turf sports fields.

Football Field Paint Usage and Strategies

2010-11-07T06:30:00.004-06:00

A customer asked recently about field marking equipment, field paint, and a custom stencil for their football program. "We are looking to paint all the regulation lines as well as a 3' border on the field, a 45 to 45 yd line stencil and to either do a checker board pattern in the end zones. We are also looking for a custom stencil price quote that would fit between the 45 yard lines."

Here's a series of comments in response their request.

We have a couple different field marking options that will do the standard line striping as well as support the wide boundary marking and end zone striping.

To prepare a custom stencil price quote we need a better quality image to work from. We suspect there may be a lot of detail in the logo and it may be difficult to replicate all this detail and still maintain a reasonable cost. We would appreciate a good quality image from the graphic art department if at all possible (.jpg, .eps, .pdf).
Please send a image of your logo to mailto:TruMarkAthletic@gmail.com.

Both the Model E-100 and the Graco FieldLazer allow for the use of the Paint Boom Accessory for wide boundary painting and your checker board end zone painting.

The Tru Mark Model E-100 is a walk-behind 12 volt diaphragm pump technology, low pressure, low volume unit, while the Graco FieldLazer is a gasoline power high pressure, high volume striper.

You can download some product information on the Tru Mark Model E-100 field striper from our web site.

For a standard field paint operation you will use on the order of 15 to 25 gallons of paint. This includes the standard boundary lines, yard lines, hash marks, and sideline numbers.

For field stencils our rule of thumb is 1 gallon of diluted paint per 100 square feet. By adding the 3 foot border you'll use on the order of another 10 gallons. For the end zone checker board paint you will typically use about 0.5 gallons of paint (on 1 to 1 dilution ratio) per 100 square feet. Each end zone has 4500 square feet (150 x 30) for a total of 9000 square feet or approximately 45 gallons required.

Adding a custom logo, say 25' x 25' will add an additional 3-5 gallons of paint.

The total diluted gallon usage based on the number of linear and square footage you'll produce 150 gallons of diluted paint.

For each full field painting operation you'll need a total of 70 gallons or 14 5-gallon pails of a SwitchBack Cheap Seats bulk latex paint formulation. A Columbia Blue will be a custom paint requirement. For the field marking paint are you planning to purchase all the paint at one time?

To reduce on the cost of shipping and provide more diluted gallons of paint per gallon shipped we would suggest the SwitchBack TrailHead MVP bulk latex paint formulation which will provide up to a 8 gallons of water to 1 gallon of paint dilution. This would be approximately 4 5-gallon pails of TrailHead MVP ($100 per pail of white + S&H).

A very good quality product that has been well received is the SwitchBack Ground Boss bulk latex paint formulation (4 to 1). This would be approximately 8 5-gallon pails of Ground Boss ($50 per pail of white + S&H).

For a football season with 6 home games you are looking at between 30 to 50 5-gallons pails of paint. For the custom color you'll need to add about $50 per pail to the white color pricing.

Please refer to our 4 page Field Marking Strategies tutorial (PDF format) on some tips and tricks.

Check out some pointers on using Sport Field Stencils.

Repairing Divots in Sports Turf & Plant Growth Regulators

2010-11-04T06:54:00.006-05:00

As sports turf enthusiasts and field maintenance specialists we see the all to common turf "wart", the divot, caused by sports play. Unfortunately the divot repair typically produces an even more noticeable "wart" for several days.

Tom Russell, Golf Course Superintendent, Missoula Country Club, has perfected a divot mix to minimize the noticeable "wart". He has incorporated sand, water, green paint, compost, and seed using a cement mixer.

To help speed up the recovery of the existing turf and help accelerated the seed growth consider a new product by http://www.growthproducts.com/home_page.cfm">Growth Products called Repair Plus. According to Growth Products Growth Plus is a unique blend of organic nutrients, biostimulants, natural wetting agent, humic acid and growth promoting rhizobacteria< (PGPR). Growth Products states that Repair Plus should be be mixed with top dressings and seed to heal damaged turf roots and accelerate new growth. It will encourage desired grass species to fill quickly and avoid undesirable grass varieties. Now using Growth Plus and the prescribed divot mix formula your sports fields may not suffer the noticeable turf "wart" phenomenon. We periodically get calls about adding a growth regulator to the paint during field marking operations. This technique will slow the growth of grass so the lines will not be mowed off as quickly. Several years ago Iowa State University conducted turf trials using two of the most common grow regulators at that time, Embark and Primo Maxx. I've spoken to several turf managers who have used these products and all agree that less is better, 1/2 oz. per diluted gallon of paint seems to work the best. Just make sure you don't double stripe when using the growth regulator. Syngenta Primo Maxx PBI/Gordon Embark.

Tru Mark used Embark T&O on a local sports field in conjunction with field marking paint application in fall 2010. The rule of thumb is 1/2 ounce to 30 milliliters (1 ounce) per gallon of diluted paint approximately every 4th week. It is better to side on using less, especially if the grass is under stress. Ensure you don't double strip with this mixture unless you compensate with the original dilution ratio. With a mowed line (1/2 inch shorter than regular cut height) prior to field striping paint application, the line held up longer with better coverage and visibility. Subsequent paint applications where done at a more diluted paint solution and/or we were able to go up to 10-14 days between striping.

Do you have a favorite recipe to improve your sports turf surfaces? We'd love to you hear your solution and the story behind it.

A Tired Sports Field--Fundamentals of Sports Turf Project Management

2010-11-04T06:05:00.004-05:00

With any organization, whether paid staff or volunteers, it is important to development a team concept for working with your customer whether that is a sports organization, city recreation staff, a vendor, or a field participant.

The Sport Turf Management Association has been developing a educational material for its members as well as visitors to their web site. One of the more recent publications is a tutorial on Fundamental of Project Management.

One of the nuggets from the material is on "Document the Progress Using Photography."
The sports turf manager should document the project's progress pictorially. The more pictures you can take during the building process the better. It is suggested that you photograph the project from the same positions daily. This will provide a historical time lapse of the project. Make sure that you communicate to the construction team that you will be photographing the project for future reference. Take pictures from more than one angle.

An often discussed topic at all the STMA annual and state chapter conferences is the subject of overuse of sports fields. Another recent document "Strategies for Dealing with Overused Athletic Fields," helps everyone supporting a sports operations to understand the tradeoffs involved. The document was published by S.T. Cockerham, University of California, Riverside, CA.

Here's the current list of STMA articles, tips, and guides that been most beneficial to our business operations.

STMA is currently offer a "try before you buy" opportunity.

How to Select an Athletic Field Marker

2010-10-30T07:35:00.003-05:00

Early in our product development as well as product upgrades we received and continue to receive questions about what athletic field marker is the best solution. To answer this question we need to ask several additional questions to help match the right field striping solution for a particular operation.

Tru Mark Athletic Field Marker developed a short tutorial that may be helpful for organizations and individuals that are considering an equipment purchase, especially when deciding to convert from aerosol paint to bulk latex paint operations. For those contemplating switching from aerosol to bulk latex field striping operations you should refer to this frequently asked question response.

The tutorial "How to Select an Athletic Field Marker" is a first step in analyzing your situation and the options available. This tutorial is available in PDF format at Tru Mark web site (48KB).

For example, here are a series of questions that will help in your field marker selection:
- is this a volunteer organization,
- are there dedicated volunteers or staff striping your fields,
- how many people are involved with the field striping operations,
- what type of maintenance staff do you have access to,
- what experience level does the field marking staff have relative to the types of equipment being considered,
- do you need specific equipment maintenance experience such as small engine operations,
- will this equipment be used for multiple sports field striping operations,
- how many fields are being striped at any given time,
- do you have access to water at your field locations and other support services such as electricity or CO2 compressed gas,
- where is your equipment and supplies being stored,
- is transportation to multiple locations an issue,
- are parts easily accessible either from vendor or local supplier,
- how many common replacement parts are proprietary or can only be purchased from the vendor
- what type of warranty is provided with the equipment,
- is a operational manual available and does it have trouble shooting steps
- what level of service should be expected on a yearly basis or even weekly, and
- what does the yearly maintenance expense for the equipment generally run?

Tru Mark has created a table that compares the athletic field marker Model E-100 with the Model EZ-70 where you can better understand some of the differences between two units that are using the same sprayer technology.

We would encourage you to list those those appropriate questions you believe are important to your field marking operations. Then ask these questions of prospective vendors.

Do you have an interesting story to share about a field marking experience?

I can remember the first time I helped volunteer to stripe a local practice football field. The spray wand and hose is attached through a separate quick disconnect. After using the spray wand and rolling it up on the hose holder I continued on with other line striping operations. Later in the day as we were cleaning up we needed to drain the spray wand and hose. You probably already know how this ends. After turning off the pump motor I failed to relieve the pressure at the spray wand and hose before disconnecting the hose from the quick disconnect. As I knelled down to preform the disconnect the pressure from the hose was quickly released through my hand and subsequently paint was deposited on my face. This volunteer received a free face painting and just a little bit of harassment. Oh well, thank goodness for acrylic latex paint and the easy cleanup. The other good thing was we were using a low volume low pressure 12-volt diaphragm pump unit so there was low risk safety issue with my eyes. However, using eye protection is always a good preventative measure when operating equipment.

Trends and Investment in Recreation and Sports Facilities

2010-10-29T10:54:00.007-05:00

As part of a community project in Norfolk, NE, the Visioning 2026 Project effort recognized the need for improved recreation and park facilities and services for a vibrant and changing culture. Another project beginning in parallel, the North Fork Riverfront Development Project, is also looking at mixed-use facilities to include office, retail, recreation, lodging and living interconnected for residents and visitors, a destination site, some say the San Antonio of the North.

The following material is a collection of material generated from the Visioning 2026 Project effort along with other references.

Visioning 2026 Focus Group dialogue and report on Tourism and Recreation, November 2006

Norfolk Amusement Park, A Possibility as reported by Dr. Marvin J. Cetron, President, Forecasting International, September 2006

56 TOP TRENDS AFFECTING NORFOLK'S FUTURE, Comments from Forecasting International By Dr. Marvin J. Cetron, President, Forecasting International, September 2006

10. Tourism and international travel will increase significantly, with tourists getting their travel information directly over the Internet. Category: TOURISM

1 (Low) - Nebraska is essentially a source of tourism, not a destination for tourists. Thus this trend, though strong and continuing, will have little significance for Norfolk. This could change if the area develops a theme park. In that case, the growth of tourism will become a 4 (High), both because this trend will produce new opportunities for the local economy and because long-distance vacationing will compete with regional attractions for business.

We see five primary theme-park opportunities for Norfolk:

An "old Nebraska" theme based on the region's history
An EPCOT approach, with attractions and foods from exotic foreign cultures;
A theme based on family life and, perhaps, Biblical stories, with marriage chapels as special attractions (providing not only the service itself, but such ancillaries as rental gowns and formal wear, photographs and videos, and bridal parties);
High-tech rides;
And attractions based on movie and video-game tie-ins, such as a park based on the Harry Potter books and movies.

Each of these offers special opportunities and challenges, which will require careful examination before a commitment is made. This is a family environment. It should be non-smoking, non-drinking, with video games and picnic tables, for parents and grandparents taking their children or grandchildren for a day's outing.

Central Winds Park, Winter Springs, Fla. The Fields of Excellence
A very good example and implemenation of recreation resources.

American School & University News

Bibliography of Economic Impacts of Parks, Recreation and Tourism

Recreation, Park & Tourism Management Reference Resources

References to commercial products and services

Natural Resources Recreation Reference Resources

Financing and Acquiring Park and Recreation Resources

Journal of Leisure Research

National Park and Recreation Association

The Future of Theme Parks in International Tourism

Paint Striping Synthetic Turf Soccer Field--Lessons Learned

2010-10-29T10:05:00.004-05:00

During some recent business travels Tru Mark had the opportunity of applying a water-based synthetic turf paint on existing soccer field lines of a synthetic turf field at Wyzata High School, MN.

This particular turf field used a crumb rubber infield with sewn-in football field lines and the soccer field touch lines (sidelines). This field is used by a local lacrosse club as well. The field had been previously painted several times and the paint build is significant reminding me of gum in a carpet situation. The football field hash marks were painted along with soccer goalie, penalty, and center circle and the standard lacrosse markings. The soccer field lines were painted yellow and the lacrosse field lines painted red.

The customer asked Tru Mark to over stripe the existing soccer field painted lines with the TrailBlazer Solar Trail, Bison Gold, permanent synthetic turf paint. There was no attempt to remove the paint that had been previously applied. The existing paint appeared have a very strong bonding agent, similar to rubber compound, and was concentrated at painted intersections. Also a lot of the paint had been applied to the crumb rubber infield making it just about impractical to clean the lines effectively before reapplying turf paint. During the striping operation we did not use a string to guide us, just the existing line.

Lesson Learned: Avoid overstriping at intersections when painting synthetic turf surfaces. Plan ahead when to start and stop your striping. For example, Minnesota Metro Dome uses a 4" x 4" cardboard spacer at the edge of the sideline when painting the 5-yard lines to ensure separation.

Lesson Learned: Whenever time allows and precision is needed pull a string to guide your striping operations, especially on synthetic turf surfaces.

Lesson Learned: Under application of paint on synthetic turf surfaces is preferred. Reduce the amount of pressure on your line striper to minimize over application and over spray. Practice your walking speed, stop and starting procedure, on a test strip when possible.

Lesson Learned: On new multi-purpose turf fields facility turf maintenance staff should consider whether personal resources and equipment support the paint removal process to minimize build-up or whether a less permanent field marking solution is desirable where build-up will less of an issue. Tru Mark aerosol chalk and Double Play bulk liquid chalk solutions may be a good alternative, yes restriping is necessary however you avoid the paint build-up.

Winterizing a 12-Volt Diaphragm Pump System--Sports Field Marker

2010-10-28T06:54:00.004-05:00

How do you prepare a 12-volt diaphragm pump system to survive winter storage requirements?

Tru Mark uses a Shurflo 3.3 GPM 12-Volt pump unit (for E-100 and RS-500 field marking models) and a Shurflo 1.46 GPM 12-Volt Pump (for EZ-70). The Shurflo technical services representative suggests using RV style antifreeze liquid. That is a propylene glycol liquid. Dow Chemical manufactures DOWFROST RVR that would be suitable.

Prior to this storage step we would also recommend running a "pump protector" or "pump saver" through the system. This should be done on a routine basis. You can find this in 32 oz. plastic bottles at a good paint store that sells commercial paint sprayers. I would add 1 to 2 oz. of the pump protector to a gallon of water and run it through the system for a couple minutes. This helps keep any remaining paint in suspension and flushed during the rinse process. We suggest unhooking the hose connectors at the pump head to and allow any excess water run out of the pump head. One key to successful subsequent operation is keeping the internal pump head wet so the valve kit supports quick pump priming operations.

Another option is to remove the pump valve and diaphragm kits from the motor (3.3 GPM pump). Remove the 6 Phillips screws from around the edge of the pump head and the diaphragm kit with valve kit will slide off the motor shaft. In the spring when you put the kits back in all you need to do is spray some water into the pump head before you attach the hose connectors.

Rules and Governing Body Information on Sports

2010-10-26T08:15:00.008-05:00

We continue to receive calls and emails on the field layout and lining requirements for different sports.

SportsKnowHow.com web site provides Rules and Governing Body information for a variety of sports.

Besides Tru Mark Athletic Field Marker this is a good place to start your web research.

Athletic Business Magazine web site has an excellent listing of sport field design specifications that are in PDF format.

Don't forget to check out our various field layout tools (soccer, lacrosse, rugby, ultimate). All you need is computer that run MS Excel, desired dimensions, two tape measures, and marking stakes.

Turfgrass and Field Maintenance Guides and Painting Strategies

2010-10-26T07:50:00.005-05:00

A national professional sports turf grass organization has written the encylopedia on turf management by engaging university researchers, professional grounds maintenance leaders, and commercial enterprises. Here's one of the more recent publications that is receiving a lot of interest.

Sports Turf Managers Association's (STMA's) Synthetic/Natural Turfgrass Guide and Advisory Bulletins.
Determining the right sports field for your athletes. A series of survey questions to help turf managers, facility administrators, school boards and city councils determine the benefit of natural and synthetic turf fields.
Is Your Turf Conditioned for the Season? By Dr. Gil Landry, Jr., University of Georgia, 09/28/01. Just as an athlete's conditioning doesn't show up until the second half or last quarter of a game, good soil conditions often are not apparent until late in the season. Soil aeration is as important to field performance as aerobic conditioning is to an athlete. And just like an athlete, a field can't be conditioned overnight. A field should be on a conditioning program that begins before the season and continues throughout.

Baseball Field Maintenance, A General Guide for Fields of All Levels. A 26 page guide jammed packed with a broad range of information for personal supporting field operations.

Are youth baseball sports your passion? Then check out a major league baseball's initiative to help organizations foster youth development and facility operations. A landscape equipment manufacturer announced its support for the Baseball Tomorrow Fund by donating equipment and discounts for grant recipients.

Tru Mark Field Painting Strategies, learn some of the tips and tricks collected from various sources and condensed into a easy reading tutorial. Four page guide covers the customer, field marking paint, plant growth regulators, precautions, football season preparations, game week activities, field marking tools, paint mixing, field striping, and painting logos from manufactured stencils and do-it-yourself layout.

We would like to hear from you on what has worked well or reference material that has really helped your field operations and customer support.

Sports Field and Track Marking Services--Reqeust for Service Providers to Post Contact Information

2010-10-22T15:11:00.004-05:00

We have had numerous web site visitors call or email requesting contact information on field and track marking services in their area.

Here's your opportunity to post your sports field and track marking services through the comment section of this blog. We will introduce your posting to our Links web page.

Please add your appropriate contact information to include name, address, telephone numbers, FAX, email, and web site address.

Are you considering adding field marking operations to your business operations? We can help with how to prepare for a bidding process when it comes to amount of time to stake a field, string, and then paint a sports field, as well as the equipment and paint supplies needed. Send us an email:TruMarkAthletic@gmail.com.

Please post your guidelines and tips on how to save time and supplies for field marking operations.

Are Nanoparticles Safe for Soil and Sports Field Facilities?

2010-10-22T14:58:00.003-05:00

First posted in 2007, still relevant in 2010.
The world of sport turf management will be experiencing challenges with the introduction of new technologies into this ever changing environment.

Synthetic nanoparticles do not harm soil ecology, according to new experiments by researchers at Purdue University in the US. The result was obtained by adding fullerenes (or buckyballs) to samples of soil and observing any changes.

Ron Turco, a Purdue University soil and environmental microbiologist, and his research team designed its study to test how different levels of buckyballs affect soil microorganisms, including bacteria that are responsible for breaking down organic material and producing carbon dioxide and other compounds. Results of the study are published online and in the April 15, 2007 issue of the journal Environmental Science and Technology.

How will these impact the sports turf management profession? What should we be learning about this technology to be prepared for challenges we might not yet understand?

These technologies will be introduced into players' uniforms and equipment within a couple years. Thus, we'll likely experience these technologies finding their way into sports playing surfaces and soils soon after.

I predict nanoparticles will be introduced into pest control products within 5 years, soil amendments products within 5-10 years, and paint products in less than 10 years. (I may have been an optimists on some of these predictions in 2007.) I can imagine that synthetic turf fibers will be made with nanoparticles to increase their durability while reducing bacteria growth (especially important for indoor facilities). What will the Material Safety Data Sheets need to reflect for these products, what risk mitigation techniques will turf managers need to consider, and what training requirements will be integrated into employee training procedures? These are just a few of the questions we need to start asking ourselves.

For example, a long-lasting nanoscale gas state has been observed for the first time by engineers in Australia. William Ducker and Xuehua Zhang of the University of Melbourne have observed very thin bubbles of carbon dioxide gas measuring around 10 nm at the interface between a hydrophobic solid and water under ambient conditions. The team has also found evidence for nanobubbles of air. The results not only settle a long-standing debate over whether a stable nano-gas state phase could exist, it might also be put to good use in a diverse range of applications in industry. These include reducing the friction force when pumping liquids through pipes and stabilizing emulsions like paint or salad dressing.

STMA Membership Drive -- Try Before Buying It

2010-10-20T19:46:00.002-05:00

SportsTurf Managers Association (STMA) has launched an initiative this month to strengthen the turf managers profession. It is a membership recruitment campaign that members may have read about in STMA News Online or seen in SportsTurf Magazine. STMA members are being ask to contact their peers and companies that they do business with who are not members of STMA. Prospects are to go on-line and join, with no obligation.

Are there others at your sports facility who could benefit from a free membership until the end of the year? How about your boss? What better way to expose him or her to all the benefits of membership that help you do your job better, especially the educational opportunities. Your boss will gain a greater appreciation and understanding of what you do, the science and technical expertise needed, and the sheer complexity of your work. There is a ‘Try it Before You Buy It’ button at www.STMA.org. It’s easy and new members will start receiving value immediately.

As a member since 2002 I've gained much from this growing professional organization. The conferences, especially the educational sessions at the chapter, regional, and national level are very beneficial. The opportunity to network with others in the profession is also extremely important. There is nothing like learning from others and avoiding the two steps forward and one back, especially in our resource constrained environments.

Synthetic Turf Options -- Things to Consider & Testimonial

2010-10-08T15:42:00.003-05:00

I’ve had two conversations with an individual from Tucson, AZ that has done extensive research on different synthetic turf products. He has visited turf company headquarters and their respective manufacturing facilities to check on the pros and cons of the different products, how they are installed, what infield material they use, the impact ratings and the latest products just coming on the market. If you would like to speak with him please send me an email and I'll forward his contact information.

After all his analysis he is recommending the latest A-Turf product called A-Turf Titan. I’ve seen this product at a product show and it closely resembles a traditional grass field with a shorter “thatch” layer of fibers and a longer layer of fibers. He also is recommending using the specialized sand only infield material (no crumb rubber) with this product. The company is going to warrant this product for 12 years. One reason he gave as to why they can provide a 12 year warranty is the sewn fibers are much denser than some other products on the market.

He said given this situation the company doesn’t necessary need to use crumb rubber as part of the infield which typically provides an impact absorption capability. He has found in the Tucson area that the crumb rubber fields require much more field grooming to keep the crumb rubber evenly distributed across the field, otherwise the fibers begin to lay down and wear quicker as well as reduce the impact absorption properties.

He also has to support multiple sports played on one field and has found the preferred “long” fiber length should be between 2" and 2.5". This length provides a trade-off between the properties desired for soccer and those of football. He mentioned the other reason he prefers not to use a crumb rubber infield system is they seem to produce more heat in the summer and typically cool down for a shorter period of time after they have been irrigated and then generate a similar level of heat and increased humidity as before water was applied.

The company also provides a pad that is installed below the synthetic turf. In addition he said that base of the field needs to be at least 8 inches thick of specialized aggregate. (This has been emphasized at every trade show and education conference I’ve been too. Do not short change the base otherwise you will almost be guaranteed to have problems). He mentioned that most of the installed fields have a 1% grade and a drainage system around the edge of field with at least 8” drainage pipes.

http://www.aturf.com/

http://www.aturf.com/index.php/news_story/b-a-turf-introduces-titan/

The primary reason he contacted me was for field painting solutions on the synthetic turf given the number of different sports he supports. He found that the more seams in the field the quicker you’ll experience failures in the turf. So he is considering temporary paint/chalk solutions to help improve the longevity while minimizing the initial cost of incorporating sewn-in lines.
http://www.athleticfieldmarker.com/products/paint.html
http://www.athleticfieldmarker.com/products/paint/durastripe-aerosol-chalk-white-12-cans-per-case.html
http://www.athleticfieldmarker.com/products/paint/switchback-double-play-liquid-chalk-all-turf-white-5-gallons.html

Given my travels around the country the past 8 years to sports facilities and SportsTurf Managers Association (STMA) trade shows and education conferences there is a theme. Hire the best engineer as possible that has extensive knowledge of synthetic turf field installation, ensure an experienced contractor is hired to build the base and drainage system and will use only the best aggregates, the “best” synthetic turf product on the market at the time of installation the satisfies your field playing requirements, an experienced turf installation team that is backed by the manufacturer of the turf product, a maintenance contract to ensure facility stays within warranty requirements (come out at least yearly to inspect and repair), and purchasing and trained on field maintenance equipment that is endorsed by the manufacturer. STMA representatives shared that the budget must be in place to support the removal, disposal, and install of a replacement system (can be well over $250K). First time installations are running close to $750K to include the base installation.

http://www.stma.org/_files/_items/stma-mr-tab1-2172/docs/2nd%20edition.pdf

Trend of Increasing Interest for Lacrosse Field Layout Tool

2010-09-16T14:32:00.005-05:00

Over the past several years the request for the soccer field layout continues to be strong compared to the lacrosse and rugby layout tools. However there is an accelerated rate of increase for the lacrosse field tool over the past two years.

Of all the requests for the layout tools over the past 5 years, soccer makes up 72.3% of the total while lacrosse is 20.4% and rugby is 7.3%.

When you compare the rate of change of requests over the last 2 years, the lacrosse field layout tool is growing at a 31% rate versus soccer at 25% and rugby at 50% (small beginning numbers since the tool has only been available for 4 years).

Athletic Management Magazine recently listed numerous articles highlighting the growth of lacrosse across the US, especially in the West and through the South as well as the Midwest.

There has been an increase of calls from lacrosse clubs that are starting up a program. They are scrambling to get commitments for fields in their community and the associated field marking options given the type of sport fields play surfaces.

Many times the lacrosse clubs have access to synthetic turf fields, however the facility managers are insisting a temporary marking solution, in fact a very temporary solution requiring a no cleaning agent solution.

Tru Mark has at least two options for these situations. The aerosol chalk and bulk chalk (CheapSeats Double Play) solutions are available.

Synthetic Turf Manfucturer and Installer Company Merger

2010-09-07T15:53:00.004-05:00

Consolidation in Sports Turf Industry follows trends from other industries. In the past 5 years we've seen larger paint manufacturing companies purchase regional and niche companies, e.g., Sherwin Williams purchasing Mautz and Conco Pro Paints, Pioneer Athletic purchasing Suntec Paints and Coatings Specialists Group.

Now the latest consolidation is taking place in the synthetic turf manufacturing and installation industry.

Integrated Turf Solutions (ITS), one of the largest manufacturers of artificial turf products in North America has merged with SprinTurf, a marketer and installer of synthetic turf systems. ITS-SprinTurf will be the first fully integrated polyethylene turf manufacturer in North America. ITS operates two manufacturing facilities in the United States.

http://www.sprinturf.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=content.pageDetails&id=3294&typeID=84

Tru Mark E-100 Field Marker Used in Ad Layout

2010-09-03T11:49:00.014-05:00

Some months back Tru Mark was approached by TRG Studios, an advertising and multi-media agency in Cleveland, OH, to use our Model E-100 field marker as part of marketing brochure for Conco Pro Paints which is primarily sold through Menards. Tru Mark personnel delivered and set up the field marker and provided support on technical operations of the equipment and subsequent comments regarding image editing.

This has been Tru Mark's second support effort for filming and photography industry. Please let us know how we can help with any advertising effort when it comes to field marking operations. With the flexibility and simplicity of Tru Mark products we are able to adjust equipment configurations to meet customer needs. For the Conco Pro Paint effort we replaced the traditional 5-gallon square paint pail with the Conco Pro 5-gallon circular pail.

TRG Studios did an excellent job of representing the dual spray fan capability of the Model E-100 which includes two opposing spray nozzles at offset angles to provide maximum coverage of turf fields. Also they did an excellent job of depicting the paint coverage on the synthetic turf application (and natural turf), very representative of the coverage (not completely white yet with the appropriate texture of the turf fibers). TRG Studios' ad layout shows the ergonomic benefits of the wide 10 inch pneumatic three-wheel platform design along with wider handlebar control features for maintaining tracking accuracy while minimizing operator fatigue, especially when making turns and striping a soccer center circle, penalty arc and corner arc. The images show how the operator can basically look straight down the striping line while maintaining a comfortable walking pace behind the E-100 field marker.

EZ-70 Field Marker used for Soccer Pitch in Ecuador South America

2010-09-03T11:07:00.007-05:00

Tru Mark has world-wide customers from FIFA in Nigeria, Africa, Landscaping Contractor in Beijing, China, and the latest a Soccer Club in Cumbaya, Ecuador, South America. The EZ-70 Stow-in-Go Field Marker is used to stripe a soccer pitch in a beautiful treed area.

The customer is part of a adult club team and hosts events on his own soccer field, in what looks like his very spacious back yard to include netting to minimize any damage from errant kicks and increase the speed of play. The striping operations are very precise as shown by the very straight lines in several of the pictures.

http://picasaweb.google.com/TruMarkAthletic/EZ70EcuadorSouthAmerica#

OBTW ... just got a call from a golf course pro looking for golf tee box markers. He had heard of something similar to our marking whiskers. He needs these Tru Mark Marking Whiskers as temporary golf tee box markers for a junior amateur golf tournament. Besides deciding on which color to select he mentioned that the 6 inch Raptor Composite Nails would also be a good safe solution for his golf course operations.

Sports Field Stencils Painted on Turf -- Photo Album

2010-08-07T07:07:00.005-05:00

Tru Mark has been providing custom sports field stencils for the past 7 years. During this time we've been accumulating images from customers that have been gracious enough to take pictures of their custom sports field stencil painting handy work.

These custom sports field stencils are manufactured by hand using images provided by customer on 8.5 or 10 mil agricultural grade sheet plastic that vary in width depending on the roll (10', 20, and 28') while minimizing waste. This grade of sheet plastic while flexible is very tough and can handle spiking the corners (folded at least once) without ripping the material.

This same grade of sheet plastic is used for the Large Block Letter Stencils (up to 10' wide x 16' tall, letter "I" is narrow). These stencils can be purchase in groups of 2-5 and 6 or more for savings.

We always recommend holding the stencils in place by using sections of 2 x 4 boards, PVC pipe, or multi-purpose sandbags (10# and 20#). When painting the stencil we recommend outlining the particular area(s) with color paint needed, removing the stencil from the turf and then finish filling in the color(s). This will reduce the heat stress to the turf by minimizing the time the stencil is covering the natural grass turf.

Tru Mark RS-500 Rider Celebrates 10th Anniversary in Operation

2010-08-06T08:53:00.008-05:00

Customer always ask how long is the expected service life of our equipment. In many cases in depends on the amount of use and the maintenance of the equipment. By implementing good design principles and excellent quality parts we expect to extend the service life of your Tru Mark field marking equipment.

Recently a Tru Mark Athletic Field Marker Model RS-500 self propelled riding unit celebrated its 10 year in operation. Originally purchased by Norfolk Public School District in 2000 this unit has been used extensively during the fall, summer, and spring field marking operations. See this RS-500 field marking unit in operation on the morning of 08/05/10 in a photo album.

On average the unit is used about 6-8 hours a week depending on the season for on average of 28 weeks a year, or about 200 hours per year. Given this is its 10th anniversary, the unit has operated for 2000 hours without any major upgrades to the chassis or striping equipment. There were 4 practice football field to line each week in the fall along with band practice area and the drill and skill areas. In the spring there were 3 soccer fields striped on a weekly basis and in the summer several sports camps were supported.

Mark Nathan, the grounds and maintenance supervisor, performs a yearly preventative maintenance process of replacing pump valve kits, spray tips, and check valves. On a bi-annual basis he replaces the diaphragm pump valve kits on the 3.3 GPM Shurflo pumps, the one-way control valve, and intake line screen assembly. He has replaced the friction drive disc once in the last 5 years on the Snapper transmission and the pump motors, actually upgraded from 1.46 GPM pumps to the 3.3 GPM pumps.

How much longer with this unit be in operation? One of the primary wear items on the unit is the Snapper transmission. This particular unit is probably getting close to its life expectancy given the amount of weight it is operating with. A transmission replacement costs approximately $600 for parts not including the labor. Given these annual repair costs the unit has been a good value in man-hour and supply savings, especially when NPS originally paid $4,950.00.