F08.64 - Natural Playing Surfaces

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 The skinned areas of baseball and softball fields should provide a uniform playing surface of high quality. Ball bounce should be true and predictable. Footing and sliding properties should favor optimum performance of players. Undulations, rough surface, hard or soft surfaces, weeds, stones, and wet spots detract from good play. Playing surface quality is largely affected by construction and maintenance procedures, and this standard guide addresses those procedures. While warning tracks are a type of skinned area found on baseball and softball fields, this standard does not apply to warning tracks. A separate standard, Guide F2270, presents information pertaining to warning tracks.  
4.1.1 During construction, consideration should be given to factors such as the physical and chemical properties of materials used in the area, freedom from stones and other debris, and surface and internal drainage.  
4.1.2 Maintenance practices that influence the playability of the surface include edging, dragging, rolling, watering, vegetation control, brushing or hosing to prevent buildup of a lip of mineral matter in turfgrass at the skinned/turfed edges, and removal of stones and debris that may adversely affect play and safety.  
4.2 Those responsible for the design, construction, or maintenance, or a combination thereof, of skinned areas on baseball and softball fields will benefit from this guide.  
4.3 This guide provides flexibility in choices of procedures and can be used to cover a variety of use and budget levels.
SCOPE
1.1 This guide covers techniques that are appropriate for the construction and maintenance of skinned areas on baseball and softball fields. This guide provides guidance for the selection of materials, such as soil, sand, gravel, crushed stone, crushed brick, calcined clay, calcined diatomaceous earth, vitrified clay, etc., for use in constructing or reconditioning skinned areas and for the selection of management practices that will maintain a safe and playable skinned surface. Although this guide is specific to baseball/softball, it has application to other sports where ball bounce, ball roll, or player footing, or a combination thereof, are of importance.  
1.2 Decisions in selecting construction and maintenance techniques are influenced by existing soil types, climatic factors, level of play, intensity of use, equipment available, budget, and training and ability of management personnel.  
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values in parentheses are for information only.  
1.4 This standard may involve hazardous materials, operations, and equipment. This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.5 This guide offers an organized collection of information or a series of options and does not recommend a specific course of action. This document cannot replace education or experience and should be used in conjunction with professional judgment. Not all aspects of this guide may be applicable in all circumstances. The ASTM standard is not intended to represent or replace the standard of care by which the adequacy of a given professional service must be judged, nor should this document be applied without consideration of a project’s many unique aspects. The word “Standard” in the title of this document means only that the document has been approved through the ASTM consensus process.  
1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Tra...

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 A dense, uniform, smooth and vigorously growing natural turfgrass sports field provides the ideal and preferred playing surface for most outdoor field sports. Such a surface is pleasing to the spectators and athletes. A thick, consistent and smooth grass cover also increases playing quality and safety by providing stable footing for the athletes, cushioning their impact from falls, slides or tackles and cools the playing surface during hot weather.  
4.2 Sand is commonly used to construct high performance athletic field rootzone systems. Sand is chosen as the primary construction material for two basic properties; compaction resistance and improved drainage/aeration state. Although sand-based fields generally provide for a higher level of performance, the costs associated with constructing/developing a proper, high-performance sand-based field often precludes its use for many athletic field construction projects. In these instances soil-based fields constructed with either native or imported soils; either topsoil or subsoil material modified to mimic the properties of a natural topsoil (a manufactured topsoil). These soils are sometimes modified with amendments to improve their performance properties either at the time of original construction or during a subsequent renovation. Although not approaching the same performance properties of a proper sand-based field construction; the implementation of proper design, construction, and athletic field maintenance can produce soil-based athletic field rootzones with acceptable performance characteristics.  
4.3 Properties of both the soil and grass plants must be considered in planning, constructing, and maintaining a high quality athletic field installation. Turfgrass utilized must be adapted to the local growing conditions and be capable of forming a thick, dense, turf cover at the desired mowing height. Soil-based fields provide varying levels of soil stability but such conditions often deteriorate rapidly under hi...
SCOPE
1.1 This guide covers techniques that are appropriate for the construction of athletic field rootzones using native-soil. This guide is also applicable to soils which are not native to the site but are natural (non-sand) imported soils. This guide provides guidance for the selection of soil materials, amendments, and methods for use in constructing these types of athletic field rootzones. Soils having a texture of Sandy Loam or coarser should be utilized for soil-based rootzone construction. Soils which are finer textured than listed above may be employed for rootzone construction but should be sand-modified to meet the performance criteria of this standard. If fields are constructed with soils which are finer textured, they will not be capable of meeting the performance criteria in this standard. Despite performance limitations, fields which are constructed with finer textured soils (due to logistics or budget constraints) may still be able to conform to the slope/grade criteria (see 5.1, 5.4, and Table 1). Sand modified rootzone constructions are not addressed by this standard.  
1.2 Decisions in selecting construction and maintenance techniques are influenced by existing soil types, climatic factors, level of play, intensity and frequency of use, equipment available, budget and training, and the ability of management personnel.  
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values in parentheses are for information only.  
1.4 This guide offers an organized collection of information or a series of options and does not recommend a specific course of action. This document cannot replace education or experience and should be used in conjunction with professional judgment. Not all aspects of this guide may be applicable in all circumstances. This ASTM standard is not intended to represent or replace the standard of care by which the adequacy of a given professional service must be judged, ...

ABSTRACT
This guide provides selection criteria for deciding the appropriate techniques and materials, including soil, sand, gravel, peat, and so forth, needed in the design, construction, and maintenance of high performance sand-based turf rootzones for sports fields. The factors taken into account here that influence such decisions are existing soil types, climatic factors, level of play, intensity and frequency of use, equipment available, budget and training, and the ability of management personnel.
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 A dense, uniform, smooth, and vigorously growing natural turfgrass sports field provides the ideal and preferred playing surface for most outdoor field sports. Such a surface is pleasing to the spectators and athletes. A thick, consistent, and smooth grass cover also increases playing quality and safety by providing stable footing for the athletes, cushioning their impact from falls, slides, or tackles, and cools the playing surface during hot weather. Sand is commonly used to construct high performance sports turf rootzone systems. Sand is chosen as the primary construction material for two basic properties, compaction resistance and improved drainage/aeration state. Sands are more resistant to compaction than finer soil materials when played upon within a wide range of soil moisture conditions. A loamy soil that may provide a more stable surface and enhanced growing media compared to sand under optimal or normal conditions will quickly compact and deteriorate in condition if used in periods of excessive soil moisture, such as during or following a rainy season. A properly constructed sand-based rootzone, on the other hand, will resist compaction even during wet periods. Once compacted, sands are easier to decompact with the use of mechanical aeration equipment. Even when compacted, sands will retain an enhanced drainage and aeration state compared to native soil rootzones under the same level of traffic. As such, sand-based rootzones are more conducive to providing an all-weather type of playing surface. Properties of both the soil and grass plants must be considered in planning, constructing, and maintaining a high quality sports turf installation. Turfgrass utilized must be adapted to the local growing conditions and be capable of forming a thick, dense, turf cover at the desired mowing height. Unvegetated sand in and of itself is not inherently stable; therefore, it is imperative that grasses with superior wear tolerance and superior recuperative potential ...
SCOPE
1.1 This guide covers techniques that are appropriate for the construction of high performance sand-based rootzones for sports fields. This guide provides guidance for the selection of materials, including soil, sand, gravel, peat, and so forth, for use in designing and constructing sand-based sports turf rootzones.  
1.2 Decisions in selecting construction and maintenance techniques are influenced by existing soil types, climatic factors, level of play, intensity and frequency of use, equipment available, budget and training, and the ability of management personnel.  
1.3 This guide offers an organized collection of information or a series of options and does not recommend a specific course of action. This document cannot replace education or experience and should be used in conjunction with professional judgment. Not all aspects of this guide may be applicable in all circumstances. This guide is not intended to represent or replace the standard of care by which the adequacy of a given professional service must be judged, nor should this document be applied without consideration of a project’s many unique aspects. The word “standard” in the title of this document means only that the document has been approved through the ASTM consensus process.  
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values in parentheses are for information only.  
1.5 This standard may involve hazardous mater...

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 A dense, uniform, smooth and vigorously (or healthy) growing natural turfgrass golf green or tee provides the ideal and preferred putting or teeing surface for golf. Sand is commonly used to construct high performance putting green and tee rootzone systems. Sand is chosen as a primary construction material due to its compaction resistance and improved drainage and aeration compared to other soil materials. A loamy soil that may provide a more stable surface and enhanced growing media compared to sand under optimal or normal conditions will quickly compact and deteriorate in condition if used in periods of excessive soil moisture, such as during or following a rain event. A properly constructed sand-based rootzone on the other hand will resist compaction even during wet periods. Even when compacted, sands will retain an enhanced drainage and aeration state compared to native soil rootzones under the same level of traffic. As such, sand-based rootzones are more conducive to providing an all-weather type of putting or teeing surface. Once compacted, sands are also easier to decompact with the use of mechanical aeration equipment.  
4.2 Properties of both the soil and grass plants must be considered in planning, constructing, and maintaining a high quality putting green or tee installation. Turfgrasses utilized must be adapted to the local growing conditions and be capable of forming a thick, dense, turf cover at the desired mowing height. Unvegetated sand is not inherently stable and therefore it is imperative that grasses are utilized to withstand the rigors of play. Sand does however have incredible load bearing capacity and if a dense, uniform turf cover is maintained the sand-based system can provide a firm and uniform playing surface.  
4.3 A successful sand-based rootzone system is dependent upon the proper selection of materials to use in the project. The proper selection of sand, organic amendments, soil, and gravel is of vital concern to the performance ...
SCOPE
1.1 This guide covers techniques that are appropriate for the construction of high performance sand-based rootzones for golf greens and tees. This guide provides guidance for the selection of materials, including soil, sand, gravel, peat, etc., for use in designing and constructing sand-based golf turf rootzones.  
1.2 Decisions in selecting construction and maintenance techniques are influenced by existing soil types, climatic factors, level of play, intensity and frequency of use, equipment available, budget and training, and the ability of management personnel.  
1.3 This guide offers an organized collection of information or a series of options and does not recommend a specific course of action. This document cannot replace education or experience and should be used in conjunction with professional judgment. Not all aspects of this guide may be applicable in all circumstances. This guide is not intended to represent or replace the standard of care by which the adequacy of a given professional service must be judged, nor should this document be applied without consideration of a project’s many unique aspects. The word “Standard” in the title of this document means only that the document has been approved through the ASTM consensus process.  
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.  
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by t...

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 The g-max values obtained by these procedures are indicative of the impact attenuation characteristics of playing surfaces used for sports such as American football, soccer, baseball, lacrosse, rugby, etc. Optional time history data can be used to further describe these properties.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method is used to determine the impact-attenuation characteristics of natural turfgrass and soil playing surface systems with a lightweight portable apparatus. This test method can be used to compare the impact attenuation characteristics of natural playing surface systems, as well as assessing the effects of management practices on the impact attenuation characteristics. This test method also can be used to assess the compactibility of natural playing surfaces by recording g-max values or penetration of successive impacts, or both.  
1.2 This test method provides a procedure for assessing impact attenuation characteristics in the field, on both actual playing surfaces and research plots. Numerical data will not be comparable to data obtained using a different missile mass or geometry, different drop height, or different standard method, for example, Test Method F1936.  
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.  
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 This test method can be used to determine in-place density of topsoil and blended soils prior to planting or in the development of a maintenance programs for natural turf sports fields, planting areas, lawns and golf courses.  
5.2 This test method can provide builders and maintenance staff with a quick assessment of the turf growing medium density without the delays associated with formal lab testing programs. During construction and prior to seeding or sodding having a method to quantify in-place soil density will assist the builder in providing an appropriate soil density at the time of planting thus improving overall turf establishment.  
5.3 The use of this test method is generally limited to soil in an unsaturated condition. This test method is not recommended for soils that are soft or friable (crumble easily) or in a moisture condition such that water seeps into the hand excavated hole. The accuracy of this test can be affected by stones or other material that can create grooves or loose material along the side walls or bottom of the test core. Test core locations within areas subject to vehicle travel may result in higher densities and such locations should be noted in the report.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method may be used to determine the undisturbed (in-situ) in-place bulk-density, moisture content and unit weight of topsoil and blended soil growing mediums using the Core Displacement Method.  
1.2 This test method is applicable for soils without appreciable amounts of rock or coarse material exceeding 1 inch in size. Further it is only suitable for soils in-which the natural void or pore openings in the soil are small enough to prevent the sand used in the test from entering the voids and impacting the test results. Unlike Test Method D1556, this test method is suitable for organic and plastic soils due to the use of a core apparatus, and not hand excavation methods. The material shall have adequate cohesive material or particle attraction to provide a stable core (core hole) for the duration of the test without deforming or sloughing. Therefore this method is not suitable for unbound granular soils that cannot maintain stable sides. This test method is applicable for assessing compaction of surface layers of topsoil (or blended soils) using a soil small core unlike Test Methods D4914, which uses a large volume soil pit excavation.  
1.3 This test method is intended for soil typical of growing mediums suitable for sports fields, golf courses and lawn areas that may include organic material, silts, clays and sand.  
1.4 This test method is not applicable for soil conditions in-which the root mass is excessive or in-which the root mass includes woody roots.  
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

ABSTRACT
These test methods establish the apparatuses required, standard procedures, and associated calculations for determining the particle size distribution and shape grading of sand in golf course putting green and other sand-based sports field rootzone mixtures assumed to have sand contents of 80 % by weight or greater. Particles large enough to be retained on a No. 270 sieve are determined by sieving, while, the silt and clay percentages are determined by a sedimentation process using the pipet method.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers the determination of particle size distribution of putting green and other sand-based rootzone mixes. Particles larger than 0.05 mm (retained on a No. 270 sieve) are determined by sieving. The silt and clay percentages are determined by a sedimentation process, using the pipet method. This procedure was developed for putting green rootzone mixes, those assumed to have sand contents of 80 % by weight or greater. Particle size analysis of soils may be performed by this test method or Test Method D422. This test method also describes a qualitative evaluation of sand particle shape.  
1.2 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.3 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

ABSTRACT
These test methods cover the standard procedures and related calculations for determining the saturated hydraulic conductivity, water retention, porosity, and bulk density of sand-based root zone mixtures used in the construction and topdressing of golf course putting greens including United States Golf Association (USGA) recommended greens, golf course tees, sand-based sports fields, and other highly trafficked turfgrass areas. These test methods are not designed for use with fine or medium textured soils such as sandy loams and loams. Test Method A is used to determine the saturated hydraulic conductivity by maintaining water flow through the core at a constant hydraulic head until a steady flow rate is achieved, at which time aliquots of the outflow are collected. Test Method B, on the other hand, is used to determine water retention and bulk density. Water retention is obtained at a soil suction, wherein water is extracted from a prepared core by means of a tension table or other water extraction apparatus. And when equilibrium is achieved after the core has been oven dried, the weight is recorded. Bulk density is, then, calculated from the mix or sand dry weight and volume. Test Method C is used to calculate the total porosity from the bulk density and particle density. And lastly, Test Method D is used to calculate the capillary and air-filled porosities. Capillary porosity is calculated from the bulk density and water retention information, while, the air-filled or aeration porosity is calculated from the difference of the total and capillary porosities.
SCOPE
1.1 These test methods cover the measurements of saturated hydraulic conductivity, water retention, porosity (including distribution of capillary and air-filled porosity at a known soil suction), and bulk density on sand-based root zone mixes to be used for construction and topdressing of golf course putting greens including United States Golf Association (USGA) recommended greens, golf course tees, sand-based sports fields, or other highly trafficked turfgrass areas. These test methods are designed for sand-based mixes and are not intended for use with fine or medium textured soils, for example, sandy loams and loams.  
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The inch-pound units given in parentheses are for information only.  
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

ABSTRACT
These test methods establish the apparatuses required, and standard calculations and procedures executed for quantifying the percent organic matter of volume ratio mixed putting green and sports turf root zone mixtures (except peat and other organic soils). Method A is performed by determining the loss on ignition (LOI). Method B or the Walkley Black method, on the other hand, is performed by a dichromate oxidation procedure whereby the color intensity of the reaction product is determined colorimetrically.
SCOPE
1.1 These test methods cover the determination of the percent organic matter of a putting green root zone mixture using a loss on ignition method or the Walkley Black method. These test methods are useful for quantifying the organic matter content of volume ratio mixed root zone mixes. Test Methods D2974 is recommended for peat and other organic soils.  
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use, nor the disposal of hazardous waste that may be generated. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For a specific precautionary statement, see 8.2.6.  
1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
3.1 A dense, uniform stand of turfgrass on a playing surface improves the playing quality and safety of the field by providing firm footing for the athletes and by cushioning their impact from falls or tackles. These standards are the minimum inputs required to provide such a surface. Various published guides have been used in the development of this guide (1-5).2  
3.2 Field conditions may directly influence the frequency and type of athletic injuries occurring as a result of using the fields. While these standards do not guarantee that such injuries will be prevented, a well-maintained turf on a natural playing surface should minimize field-related injuries.
SCOPE
1.1 This guide covers the minimum requirements for maintaining cool season turfgrasses used for natural surface athletic fields. Practices covered include mowing, fertilization, irrigation, core cultivation, overseeding, and pest management.  
1.2 The decisions involved in maintaining a quality natural playing surface should consider soil types, local climate and other factors; therefore, it is recommended that you contact your local cooperative extension service for more specific information on soils, and grass species and cultivars adapted to your area.  
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 A dense, uniform stand of turfgrass on a playing surface improves the playing quality and safety of the field by providing firm footing for the athletes and by cushioning their impact from falls, tackles or slides. These standards are the minimum inputs required to provide such a surface. Various published guides have been used in the development of this standard (1-8).3  
4.2 Field conditions may directly influence the frequency and type of athletic injuries occurring as a result of using the fields. While these standards do not guarantee that such injuries will be prevented, a well maintained turf on a natural playing surface should minimize field-related injuries.
SCOPE
1.1 This guide covers the minimum requirements for maintaining warm-season turfgrasses used for natural surface athletic fields. Practices covered include mowing, fertilization, irrigation, core cultivation, winter overseeding, pest management, and requirements for management of dormant turf winter overseeded with cool-season turf (see also Guide F2060).  
1.2 The decisions involved in maintaining a quality natural playing surface should consider soil types, local climate and other factors. Therefore, it is recommended that you contact your local cooperative extension service for more specific information on soils, and grass species and cultivars adapted to your area.  
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values in parentheses are for information only.  
1.4 This standard may involve hazardous materials, operations, and equipment. This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 Warning tracks are playing surfaces located on the margins of the playing area for the purpose of providing a warning to the player that he or she is approaching a hazard (commonly a fence) or out-of-bounds area. In order to provide for an effective warning track surface, the warning track must be constructed and maintained in such a manner so that the player can sense the change in texture from the regular playing surface and the warning track without having to look. This feature is very important in that the player is often visually focused on the ball during play and would not be looking at the ground as he/she is running toward the warning track. The warning track must also be constructed and maintained in such a manner that the warning track itself, or the surface transition, does not pose a hazard to the players.  
4.2 The warning track areas of sports fields should provide a uniform surface with good footing. The change in surface texture of the warning track from the surrounding playing surface must be of enough contrast such that the player can sense the change without looking. Most often, warning track surfaces are devoid of turf or other vegetation. However, turfed warning track areas may be used in instances where such purpose is to “warn” the player of an impending hazard where the primary playing surface is a skinned area. This may be the case in softball where the entire infield playing surface is a skinned area and a turfed warning track is used along the first base and third base fencelines. Undulations, rough surface, hard or soft surface, weeds, stones, debris, wets spots, etc. detract from a good, safe warning track. The safety and effectiveness of the warning track is largely affected by construction and maintenance procedures and this guide addresses those procedures.  
4.2.1 During construction, consideration should be given to factors such as the physical and chemical properties of materials used in the area, freedom from stones, sticks...
SCOPE
1.1 This guide covers techniques that are appropriate for the construction and maintenance of warning track areas on sports fields. This guide provides guidance for the selection of materials, such as soil and sand for use in constructing or reconditioning warning track areas and for selection of management practices that will maintain a safe and functioning warning track. Although this guide has applications to all sports where a warning track surface may be required or desired, it has specific applications to baseball/softball.  
1.2 This guide does not address synthetic warning tracks such as rubberized surfaces, artificial turf, or paved surfaces.  
1.3 Decisions in selecting construction and maintenance techniques are influenced by local soil types, climatic factors, level of play, budget, and training/ability of management personnel.  
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values in parentheses are for information only.  
1.5 This standard may involve hazardous materials, operations, and equipment. This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
A dense, uniform, smooth and vigorously (or healthy) growing natural turfgrass golf green or tee provides the ideal and preferred putting or teeing surface for golf. Sand is commonly used to construct high performance putting green and tee rootzone systems. Sand is chosen as a primary construction material due to its compaction resistance and improved drainage and aeration compared to other soil materials. A loamy soil that may provide a more stable surface and enhanced growing media compared to sand under optimal or normal conditions will quickly compact and deteriorate in condition if used in periods of excessive soil moisture, such as during or following a rain event. A properly constructed sand-based rootzone on the other hand will resist compaction even during wet periods. Even when compacted, sands will retain an enhanced drainage and aeration state compared to native soil rootzones under the same level of traffic. As such, sand-based rootzones are more conducive to providing an all-weather type of putting or teeing surface. Once compacted, sands are also easier to decompact with the use of mechanical aeration equipment.
Properties of both the soil and grass plants must be considered in planning, constructing, and maintaining a high quality putting green or tee installation. Turfgrasses utilized must be adapted to the local growing conditions and be capable of forming a thick, dense, turf cover at the desired mowing height. Unvegetated sand is not inherently stable and therefore it is imperative that grasses are utilized to withstand the rigors of play. Sand does however have incredible load bearing capacity and if a dense, uniform turf cover is maintained the sand-based system can provide a firm and uniform playing surface.
A successful sand-based rootzone system is dependent upon the proper selection of materials to use in the project. The proper selection of sand, organic amendments, soil, and gravel is of vital concern to the performance of the system....
SCOPE
1.1 This guide covers techniques that are appropriate for the construction of high performance sand-based rootzones for golf greens and tees. This guide provides guidance for the selection of materials, including soil, sand, gravel, peat, etc., for use in designing and constructing sand-based golf turf rootzones.
1.2 Decisions in selecting construction and maintenance techniques are influenced by existing soil types, climatic factors, level of play, intensity and frequency of use, equipment available, budget and training, and the ability of management personnel.
1.3 This guide offers an organized collection of information or a series of options and does not recommend a specific course of action. This document cannot replace education or experience and should be used in conjunction with professional judgment. Not all aspects of this guide may be applicable in all circumstances. This guide is not intended to represent or replace the standard of care by which the adequacy of a given professional service must be judged, nor should this document be applied without consideration of a project’s many unique aspects. The word “Standard” in the title of this document means only that the document has been approved through the ASTM consensus process.
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
WITHDRAWN RATIONALE
This guide covers techniques that are appropriate for the construction of high performance sand-based rootzones for golf greens and tees. This guide provides guidance for the selection of materials, including soil, sand, gravel, peat, etc., for use ...

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 The skinned areas of baseball and softball fields should provide a uniform playing surface of high quality. Ball bounce should be true and predictable. Footing and sliding properties should favor optimum performance of players. Undulations, rough surface, hard or soft surfaces, weeds, stones, and wet spots detract from good play. Playing surface quality is largely affected by construction and maintenance procedures, and this standard guide addresses those procedures. While warning tracks are a type of skinned area found on baseball and softball fields, this standard does not apply to warning tracks. A separate standard, Guide F2270, presents information pertaining to warning tracks.  
4.1.1 During construction, consideration should be given to factors such as the physical and chemical properties of materials used in the area, freedom from stones and other debris, and surface and internal drainage.  
4.1.2 Maintenance practices that influence the playability of the surface include edging, dragging, rolling, watering, vegetation control, brushing or hosing to prevent buildup of a lip of mineral matter in turfgrass at the skinned/turfed edges, and removal of stones and debris that may adversely affect play and safety.  
4.2 Those responsible for the design, construction, or maintenance, or a combination thereof, of skinned areas on baseball and softball fields will benefit from this guide.  
4.3 This guide provides flexibility in choices of procedures and can be used to cover a variety of use and budget levels.
SCOPE
1.1 This guide covers techniques that are appropriate for the construction and maintenance of skinned areas on baseball and softball fields. This guide provides guidance for the selection of materials, such as soil, sand, gravel, crushed stone, crushed brick, calcined clay, calcined diatomaceous earth, vitrified clay, etc., for use in constructing or reconditioning skinned areas and for the selection of management practices that will maintain a safe and playable skinned surface. Although this guide is specific to baseball/softball, it has application to other sports where ball bounce, ball roll, or player footing, or a combination thereof, are of importance.  
1.2 Decisions in selecting construction and maintenance techniques are influenced by existing soil types, climatic factors, level of play, intensity of use, equipment available, budget, and training and ability of management personnel.  
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values in parentheses are for information only.  
1.4 This standard may involve hazardous materials, operations, and equipment. This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory requirements prior to use.  
1.5 This guide offers an organized collection of information or a series of options and does not recommend a specific course of action. This document cannot replace education or experience and should be used in conjunction with professional judgment. Not all aspects of this guide may be applicable in all circumstances. The ASTM standard is not intended to represent or replace the standard of care by which the adequacy of a given professional service must be judged, nor should this document be applied without consideration of a project’s many unique aspects. The word “Standard” in the title of this document means only that the document has been approved through the ASTM consensus process.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 This test method can be used to determine in-place density of topsoil and blended soils prior to planting or in the development of a maintenance programs for natural turf sports fields, planting areas, lawns and golf courses.  
5.2 This test method can provide builders and maintenance staff with a quick assessment of the turf growing medium density without the delays associated with formal lab testing programs. During construction and prior to seeding or sodding having a method to quantify in-place soil density will assist the builder in providing an appropriate soil density at the time of planting thus improving overall turf establishment.  
5.3 The use of this test method is generally limited to soil in an unsaturated condition. This test method is not recommended for soils that are soft or friable (crumble easily) or in a moisture condition such that water seeps into the hand excavated hole. The accuracy of this test can be affected by stones or other material that can create grooves or loose material along the side walls or bottom of the test core. Test core locations within areas subject to vehicle travel may result in higher densities and such locations should be noted in the report.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method may be used to determine the undisturbed (in-situ) in-place bulk-density, moisture content and unit weight of topsoil and blended soil growing mediums using the Core Displacement Method.  
1.2 This test method is applicable for soils without appreciable amounts of rock or coarse material exceeding 1 inch in size. Further it is only suitable for soils in-which the natural void or pore openings in the soil are small enough to prevent the sand used in the test from entering the voids and impacting the test results. Unlike Test Method D1556, this test method is suitable for organic and plastic soils due to the use of a core apparatus, and not hand excavation methods. The material shall have adequate cohesive material or particle attraction to provide a stable core (core hole) for the duration of the test without deforming or sloughing. Therefore this method is not suitable for unbound granular soils that cannot maintain stable sides. This test method is applicable for assessing compaction of surface layers of topsoil (or blended soils) using a soil small core unlike Test Methods D4914, which uses a large volume soil pit excavation.  
1.3 This test method is intended for soil typical of growing mediums suitable for sports fields, golf courses and lawn areas that may include organic material, silts, clays and sand.  
1.4 This test method is not applicable for soil conditions in-which the root mass is excessive or in-which the root mass includes woody roots.  
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
Warning tracks are playing surfaces located on the margins of the playing area for the purpose of providing a warning to the player that he or she is approaching a hazard (commonly a fence) or out-of-bounds area. In order to provide for an effective warning track surface, the warning track must be constructed and maintained in such a manner so that the player can sense the change in texture from the regular playing surface and the warning track without having to look. This feature is very important in that the player is often visually focused on the ball during play and would not be looking at the ground as he/she is running toward the warning track. The warning track must also be constructed and maintained in such a manner that the warning track itself, or the surface transition, does not pose a hazard to the players.
The warning track areas of sports fields should provide a uniform surface with good footing. The change in surface texture of the warning track from the surrounding playing surface must be of enough contrast such that the player can sense the change without looking. Most often, warning track surfaces are devoid of turf or other vegetation. However, turfed warning track areas may be used in instances where such purpose is to “warn” the player of an impending hazard where the primary playing surface is a skinned area. This may be the case in softball where the entire infield playing surface is a skinned area and a turfed warning track is used along the first base and third base fencelines. Undulations, rough surface, hard or soft surface, weeds, stones, debris, wets spots, etc. detract from a good, safe warning track. The safety and effectiveness of the warning track is largely affected by construction and maintenance procedures and this guide addresses those procedures.
During construction, consideration should be given to factors such as the physical and chemical properties of materials used in the area, freedom from stones, sticks, and other debr...
SCOPE
1.1 This guide covers techniques that are appropriate for the construction and maintenance of warning track areas on sports fields. This guide provides guidance for the selection of materials, such as soil and sand for use in constructing or reconditioning warning track areas and for selection of management practices that will maintain a safe and functioning warning track. Although this guide has applications to all sports where a warning track surface may be required or desired, it has specific applications to baseball/softball.
1.2 This guide does not address synthetic warning tracks such as rubberized surfaces, artificial turf, or paved surfaces.
1.3 Decisions in selecting construction and maintenance techniques are influenced by local soil types, climatic factors, level of play, budget, and training/ability of management personnel.
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values in parentheses are for information only.
1.5 This standard may involve hazardous materials, operations, and equipment. This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory requirements prior to use.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
A dense, uniform stand of turfgrass on a playing surface improves the playing quality and safety of the field by providing firm footing for the athletes and by cushioning their impact from falls, tackles or slides. These standards are the minimum inputs required to provide such a surface. Various published guides have been used in the development of this standard (1-8).  
Field conditions may directly influence the frequency and type of athletic injuries occurring as a result of using the fields. While these standards do not guarantee that such injuries will be prevented, a well maintained turf on a natural playing surface should minimize field-related injuries.
SCOPE
1.1 This guide covers the minimum requirements for maintaining warm-season turfgrasses used for natural surface athletic fields. Practices covered include mowing, fertilization, irrigation, core cultivation, winter overseeding, pest management, and requirements for management of dormant turf winter overseeded with cool-season turf (see also Guide F2060).  
1.2 The decisions involved in maintaining a quality natural playing surface should consider soil types, local climate and other factors. Therefore, it is recommended that you contact your local cooperative extension service for more specific information on soils, and grass species and cultivars adapted to your area.
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values in parentheses are for information only.
1.4 This standard may involve hazardous materials, operations, and equipment. This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory requirements prior to use.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
A dense, uniform stand of turfgrass on a playing surface improves the playing quality and safety of the field by providing firm footing for the athletes and by cushioning their impact from falls or tackles. These standards are the minimum inputs required to provide such a surface. Various published guides have been used in the development of this guide (1-5).  
Field conditions may directly influence the frequency and type of athletic injuries occurring as a result of using the fields. While these standards do not guarantee that such injuries will be prevented, a well-maintained turf on a natural playing surface should minimize field-related injuries.
SCOPE
1.1 This guide covers the minimum requirements for maintaining cool season turfgrasses used for natural surface athletic fields. Practices covered include mowing, fertilization, irrigation, core cultivation, overseeding, and pest management.
1.2 The decisions involved in maintaining a quality natural playing surface should consider soil types, local climate and other factors; therefore, it is recommended that you contact your local cooperative extension service for more specific information on soils, and grass species and cultivars adapted to your area.
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

ABSTRACT
This guide provides selection criteria for deciding the appropriate techniques and materials, including soil, sand, gravel, peat, and so forth, needed in the design, construction, and maintenance of high performance sand-based turf rootzones for sports fields. The factors taken into account here that influence such decisions are existing soil types, climatic factors, level of play, intensity and frequency of use, equipment available, budget and training, and the ability of management personnel.
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
A dense, uniform, smooth, and vigorously growing natural turfgrass sports field provides the ideal and preferred playing surface for most outdoor field sports. Such a surface is pleasing to the spectators and athletes. A thick, consistent, and smooth grass cover also increases playing quality and safety by providing stable footing for the athletes, cushioning their impact from falls, slides, or tackles, and cools the playing surface during hot weather. Sand is commonly used to construct high performance sports turf rootzone systems. Sand is chosen as the primary construction material for two basic properties, compaction resistance and improved drainage/aeration state. Sands are more resistant to compaction than finer soil materials when played upon within a wide range of soil moisture conditions. A loamy soil that may provide a more stable surface and enhanced growing media compared to sand under optimal or normal conditions will quickly compact and deteriorate in condition if used in periods of excessive soil moisture, such as during or following a rainy season. A properly constructed sand-based rootzone, on the other hand, will resist compaction even during wet periods. Once compacted, sands are easier to decompact with the use of mechanical aeration equipment. Even when compacted, sands will retain an enhanced drainage and aeration state compared to native soil rootzones under the same level of traffic. As such, sand-based rootzones are more conducive to providing an all-weather type of playing surface. Properties of both the soil and grass plants must be considered in planning, constructing, and maintaining a high quality sports turf installation. Turfgrass utilized must be adapted to the local growing conditions and be capable of forming a thick, dense, turf cover at the desired mowing height. Unvegetated sand in and of itself is not inherently stable; therefore, it is imperative that grasses with superior wear tolerance and superior recuperative potential are ...
SCOPE
1.1 This guide covers techniques that are appropriate for the construction of high performance sand-based rootzones for sports fields. This guide provides guidance for the selection of materials, including soil, sand, gravel, peat, and so forth, for use in designing and constructing sand-based sports turf rootzones.
1.2 Decisions in selecting construction and maintenance techniques are influenced by existing soil types, climatic factors, level of play, intensity and frequency of use, equipment available, budget and training, and the ability of management personnel.
1.3 This guide offers an organized collection of information or a series of options and does not recommend a specific course of action. This document cannot replace education or experience and should be used in conjunction with professional judgment. Not all aspects of this guide may be applicable in all circumstances. This guide is not intended to represent or replace the standard of care by which the adequacy of a given professional service must be judged, nor should this document be applied without consideration of a project’s many unique aspects. The word “standard” in the title of this document means only that the document has been approved through the ASTM consensus process.
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values in parentheses are for information only.
1.5 This standard may involve hazardous materials...

ABSTRACT
These test methods cover the standard procedures and related calculations for determining the saturated hydraulic conductivity, water retention, porosity, and bulk density of sand-based root zone mixtures used in the construction and topdressing of golf course putting greens including United States Golf Association (USGA) recommended greens, golf course tees, sand-based sports fields, and other highly trafficked turfgrass areas. These test methods are not designed for use with fine or medium textured soils such as sandy loams and loams. Test Method A is used to determine the saturated hydraulic conductivity by maintaining water flow through the core at a constant hydraulic head until a steady flow rate is achieved, at which time aliquots of the outflow are collected. Test Method B, on the other hand, is used to determine water retention and bulk density. Water retention is obtained at a soil suction, wherein water is extracted from a prepared core by means of a tension table or other water extraction apparatus. And when equilibrium is achieved after the core has been oven dried, the weight is recorded. Bulk density is, then, calculated from the mix or sand dry weight and volume. Test Method C is used to calculate the total porosity from the bulk density and particle density. And lastly, Test Method D is used to calculate the capillary and air-filled porosities. Capillary porosity is calculated from the bulk density and water retention information, while, the air-filled or aeration porosity is calculated from the difference of the total and capillary porosities.
SCOPE
1.1 These test methods cover the measurements of saturated hydraulic conductivity, water retention, porosity (including distribution of capillary and air-filled porosity at a known soil suction), and bulk density on sand-based root zone mixes to be used for construction and topdressing of golf course putting greens including United States Golf Association (USGA) recommended greens, golf course tees, sand-based sports fields, or other highly trafficked turfgrass areas. These test methods are designed for sand-based mixes and are not intended for use with fine or medium textured soils, for example, sandy loams and loams.
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The inch-pound units given in parentheses are for information only.
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to its use.

ABSTRACT
These test methods establish the apparatus required, and standard calculations and procedures executed for quantifying the percent organic matter of volume ratio mixed putting green and sports turf root zone mixtures (except peat and other organic soils). Method A is performed by determining the loss on ignition (LOI). Method B or the Walkley Black method, on the other hand, is performed by a dichromate oxidation procedure whereby the color intensity of the reaction product is determined colorimetrically.
SCOPE
1.1 These test methods cover the determination of the percent organic matter of a putting green root zone mixture using a loss on ignition method or the Walkley Black method. These test methods are useful for quantifying the organic matter content of volume ratio mixed root zone mixes. Test Methods D2974 is recommended for peat and other organic soils.
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use, nor the disposal of hazardous waste that may be generated. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For a specific precautionary statement, see 8.2.6.

ABSTRACT
These test methods establish the apparatus required, standard procedures, and associated calculations for determining the particle size distribution and shape grading of sand in golf course putting green and other sand-based sports field rootzone mixtures assumed to have sand contents of 80 % by weight or greater. Particles large enough to be retained on a No. 270 sieve are determined by sieving, while, the silt and clay percentages are determined by a sedimentation process using the pipet method.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers the determination of particle size distribution of putting green and other sand-based rootzone mixes. Particles larger than 0.05 mm (retained on a No. 270 sieve) are determined by sieving. The silt and clay percentages are determined by a sedimentation process, using the pipet method. This procedure was developed for putting green rootzone mixes, those assumed to have sand contents of 80 % by weight or greater. Particle size analysis of soils may be performed by this test method or Test Method D422. This test method also describes a qualitative evaluation of sand particle shape.  
1.2 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
The g-max values obtained by these procedures are indicative of the impact attenuation characteristics of playing surfaces used for sports such as American football, soccer, baseball, lacrosse, rugby, etc. Optional time history data can be used to further describe these properties.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method is used to determine the impact-attenuation characteristics of natural turfgrass and soil playing surface systems with a lightweight portable apparatus. This test method can be used to compare the impact attenuation characteristics of natural playing surface systems, as well as assessing the effects of management practices on the impact attenuation characteristics. This test method also can be used to assess the compactibility of natural playing surfaces by recording g-max values or penetration of successive impacts, or both.
1.2 This test method provides a procedure for assessing impact attenuation characteristics in the field, on both actual playing surfaces and research plots. Numerical data will not be comparable to data obtained using a different missile mass or geometry, different drop height, or different standard method, for example, Test Method .
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.
1.4  This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

ABSTRACT
These test methods establish the apparatus required, and standard calculations and procedures executed for quantifying the percent organic matter of volume ratio mixed putting green and sports turf root zone mixtures (except peat and other organic soils). Method A is performed by determining the loss on ignition (LOI). Method B or the Walkley Black method, on the other hand, is performed by a dichromate oxidation procedure whereby the color intensity of the reaction product is determined colorimetrically.
SCOPE
1.1 These test methods cover the determination of the percent organic matter of a putting green root zone mixture using a loss on ignition method or the Walkley Black method. These test methods are useful for quantifying the organic matter content of volume ratio mixed root zone mixes. Test Methods D2974 is recommended for peat and other organic soils.
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use, nor the disposal of hazardous waste that may be generated. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For a specific precautionary statement, see 8.2.6.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
The skinned areas of baseball and softball fields should provide a uniform playing surface of high quality. Ball bounce should be true and predictable. Footing and sliding properties should favor optimum performance of players. Undulations, rough surface, hard or soft surfaces, weeds, stones, and wet spots detract from good play. Playing surface quality is largely affected by construction and maintenance procedures, and this standard guide addresses those procedures. While warning tracks are a type of skinned area found on baseball and softball fields, this standard does not apply to warning tracks. A separate standard, Guide F 2270, presents information pertaining to warning tracks.  
During construction, consideration should be given to factors such as the physical and chemical properties of materials used in the area, freedom from stones and other debris, and surface and internal drainage.
Maintenance practices that influence the playability of the surface include edging, dragging, rolling, watering, vegetation control, brushing or hosing to prevent buildup of a lip of mineral matter in turfgrass at the skinned/turfed edges, and removal of stones and debris that may adversely affect play and safety.
Those responsible for the design, construction, or maintenance, or a combination thereof, of skinned areas on baseball and softball fields will benefit from this guide.
This guide provides flexibility in choices of procedures and can be used to cover a variety of use and budget levels.
SCOPE
1.1 This guide covers techniques that are appropriate for the construction and maintenance of skinned areas on baseball and softball fields. This guide provides guidance for the selection of materials, such as soil, sand, gravel, crushed stone, crushed brick, calcined clay, calcined diatomaceous earth, vitrified clay, etc., for use in constructing or reconditioning skinned areas and for the selection of management practices that will maintain a safe and playable skinned surface. Although this guide is specific to baseball/softball, it has application to other sports where ball bounce, ball roll, or player footing, or a combination thereof, are of importance.
1.2 Decisions in selecting construction and maintenance techniques are influenced by existing soil types, climatic factors, level of play, intensity of use, equipment available, budget, and training and ability of management personnel.  
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values in parentheses are for information only.
1.4 This standard may involve hazardous materials, operations, and equipment. This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory requirements prior to use.
1.5 This guide offers an organized collection of information or a series of options and does not recommend a specific course of action. This document cannot replace education or experience and should be used in conjunction with professional judgment. Not all aspects of this guide may be applicable in all circumstances. The ASTM standard is not intended to represent or replace the standard of care by which the adequacy of a given professional service must be judged, nor should this document be applied without consideration of a project’s many unique aspects. The word “Standard” in the title of this document means only that the document has been approved through the ASTM consensus process.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
The skinned areas of baseball and softball fields should provide a uniform playing surface of high quality. Ball bounce should be true and predictable. Footing and sliding properties should favor optimum performance of players. Undulations, rough surface, hard or soft surfaces, weeds, stones, and wet spots detract from good play. Playing surface quality is largely affected by construction and maintenance procedures, and this standard guide addresses those procedures. While warning tracks are a type of skinned area found on baseball and softball fields, this standard does not apply to warning tracks. A separate standard, Guide F 2270, presents information pertaining to warning tracks.  
4.1.1 During construction, consideration should be given to factors such as the physical and chemical properties of materials used in the area, freedom from stones and other debris, and surface and internal drainage.
4.1.2 Maintenance practices that influence the playability of the surface include edging, dragging, rolling, watering, vegetation control, brushing or hosing to prevent buildup of a lip of mineral matter in turfgrass at the skinned/turfed edges, and removal of stones and debris that may adversely affect play and safety.
Those responsible for the design, construction, or maintenance, or a combination thereof, of skinned areas on baseball and softball fields will benefit from this guide.
This guide provides flexibility in choices of procedures and can be used to cover a variety of use and budget levels.
SCOPE
1.1 This guide covers techniques that are appropriate for the construction and maintenance of skinned areas on baseball and softball fields. This guide provides guidance for the selection of materials, such as soil, sand, gravel, crushed stone, crushed brick, calcined clay, calcined diatomaceous earth, vitrified clay, etc., for use in constructing or reconditioning skinned areas and for the selection of management practices that will maintain a safe and playable skinned surface. Although this guide is specific to baseball/softball, it has application to other sports where ball bounce, ball roll, or player footing, or a combination thereof, are of importance.
1.2 Decisions in selecting construction and maintenance techniques are influenced by existing soil types, climatic factors, level of play, intensity of use, equipment available, budget, and training and ability of management personnel.
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values in parentheses are for information only.
This standard may involve hazardous materials, operations, and equipment. This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory requirements prior to use.
This guide offers an organized collection of information or a series of options and does not recommend a specific course of action. This document cannot replace education or experience and should be used in conjunction with professional judgment. Not all aspects of this guide may be applicable in all circumstances. The ASTM standard is not intended to represent or replace the standard of care by which the adequacy of a given professional service must be judged, nor should this document be applied without consideration of a projects many unique aspects. The word "Standard" in the title of this document means only that the document has been approved through the ASTM consensus process.

ABSTRACT
These test methods cover the standard procedures and related calculations for determining the saturated hydraulic conductivity, water retention, porosity, and bulk density of sand-based root zone mixtures used in the construction and topdressing of golf course putting greens including United States Golf Association (USGA) recommended greens, golf course tees, sand-based sports fields, and other highly trafficked turfgrass areas. These test methods are not designed for use with fine or medium textured soils such as sandy loams and loams. Test Method A is used to determine the saturated hydraulic conductivity by maintaining water flow through the core at a constant hydraulic head until a steady flow rate is achieved, at which time aliquots of the outflow are collected. Test Method B, on the other hand, is used to determine water retention and bulk density. Water retention is obtained at a soil suction, wherein water is extracted from a prepared core by means of a tension table or other water extraction apparatus. And when equilibrium is achieved after the core has been oven dried, the weight is recorded. Bulk density is, then, calculated from the mix or sand dry weight and volume. Test Method C is used to calculate the total porosity from the bulk density and particle density. And lastly, Test Method D is used to calculate the capillary and air-filled porosities. Capillary porosity is calculated from the bulk density and water retention information, while, the air-filled or aeration porosity is calculated from the difference of the total and capillary porosities.
SCOPE
1.1 These test methods cover the measurements of saturated hydraulic conductivity, water retention, porosity (including distribution of capillary and air-filled porosity at a known soil suction), and bulk density on sand-based root zone mixes to be used for construction and topdressing of golf course putting greens including United States Golf Association (USGA) recommended greens, golf course tees, sand-based sports fields, or other highly trafficked turfgrass areas. These test methods are designed for sand-based mixes and are not intended for use with fine or medium textured soils, for example, sandy loams and loams.
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The inch-pound units given in parentheses are for information only.
This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to its use.

SCOPE
1.1 These test methods cover the measurements of saturated hydraulic conductivity, water retention, porosity (including distribution of capillary an air-filled porosity at a known matric potential), and particle and bulk densities on root zone mixes to be used to for construction and topdressing of golf course putting greens including United States Golf Association (USGA) recommended greens or other highly trafficked turfgrass areas
1.2 Water retention is not a required measurement for USGA Recommended greens. Its inclusion in these test methods is for the benefit of those who wish to continue to obtain such data. Likewise, bulk density is no longer a physical parameter required in the evaluation of USGA root zone mixes, but is must be determined for calculation of total and capillary porosity.
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The inch-pound units given in parentheses are for information only.
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
WITHDRAWN RATIONALE
These test methods cover the measurements of saturated hydraulic conductivity, water retention, porosity (including distribution of capillary and air-filled porosity at a known matric potential), and particle and bulk densities on root zone mixes to be used for construction and topdressing of golf course putting greens including United States Golf Association (USGA) recommended greens or other highly trafficked turfgrass areas.
Formerly under the jurisdiction of Committee F08 on Sports Equipment and Facilities, these test methods were withdrawn in 2006 in accordance with section 10.5.3.1 of the Regulations Governing ASTM Technical Committees, which requires that standards shall be updated by the end of the eighth year since the last approval date.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
A dense, uniform stand of turfgrass on a playing surface improves the playing quality and safety of the field by providing firm footing for the athletes and by cushioning their impact from falls or tackles. These standards are the minimum inputs required to provide such a surface. Various published guides have been used in the development of this guide (1-5).2  
Field conditions may directly influence the frequency and type of athletic injuries occurring as a result of using the fields. While these standards do not guarantee that such injuries will be prevented, a well-maintained turf on a natural playing surface should minimize field-related injuries.
SCOPE
1.1 This guide covers the minimum requirements for maintaining cool season turfgrasses used for natural surface athletic fields. Practices covered include mowing, fertilization, irrigation, core cultivation, overseeding, and pest management.
1.2 The decisions involved in maintaining a quality natural playing surface should consider soil types, local climate and other factors; therefore, it is recommended that you contact your local cooperative extension service for more specific information on soils, and grass species and cultivars adapted to your area.
1.3This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

ABSTRACT
This guide provides selection criteria for deciding the appropriate techniques and materials, including soil, sand, gravel, peat, and so forth, needed in the design, construction, and maintenance of high performance sand-based turf rootzones for sports fields. The factors taken into account here that influence such decisions are existing soil types, climatic factors, level of play, intensity and frequency of use, equipment available, budget and training, and the ability of management personnel.
SCOPE
1.1 This guide covers techniques that are appropriate for the construction of high performance sand-based rootzones for sports fields. This guide provides guidance for the selection of materials, including soil, sand, gravel, peat, and so forth, for use in designing and constructing sand-based sports turf rootzones.
1.2 Decisions in selecting construction and maintenance techniques are influenced by existing soil types, climatic factors, level of play, intensity and frequency of use, equipment available, budget and training, and the ability of management personnel.
1.3 This guide offers an organized collection of information or a series of options and does not recommend a specific course of action. This document cannot replace education or experience and should be used in conjunction with professional judgment. Not all aspects of this guide may be applicable in all circumstances. This guide is not intended to represent or replace the standard of care by which the adequacy of a given professional service must be judged, nor should this document be applied without consideration of a projects many unique aspects. The word "standard" in the title of this document means only that the document has been approved through the ASTM consensus process.
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values in parentheses are for information only.
This standard may involve hazardous materials, operations, and equipment. This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory requirements prior to use.

SCOPE
1.1 This guide covers techniques that are appropriate for the construction and maintenance of warning track areas on sports fields. This guide provides guidance for the selection of materials, such as soil and sand for use in constructing or reconditioning warning track areas and for selection of management practices that will maintain a safe and functioning warning track. Although this guide has applications to all sports where a warning track surface may be required or desired, it has specific applications to baseball/softball.
1.2 This guide does not address synthetic warning tracks such as rubberized surfaces, artificial turf, or paved surfaces.
1.3 Decisions in selecting construction and maintenance techniques are influenced by local soil types, climatic factors, level of play, budget, and training/ability of management personnel.
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values in parentheses are for information only.
1.5 This standard may involve hazardous materials, operations, and equipment. This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory requirements prior to use.

ABSTRACT
These test methods establish the apparatus required, standard procedures, and associated calculations for determining the particle size distribution and shape grading of sand in golf course putting green and other sand-based sports field rootzone mixtures assumed to have sand contents of 80 % by weight or greater. Particles large enough to be retained on a No. 270 sieve are determined by sieving, while, the silt and clay percentages are determined by a sedimentation process using the pipet method.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers the determination of particle size distribution of putting green and other sand-based rootzone mixes. Particles larger than 0.05 mm (retained on a No. 270 sieve) are determined by sieving. The silt and clay percentages are determined by a sedimentation process, using the pipet method. This procedure was developed for putting green rootzone mixes, those assumed to have sand contents of 80 % by weight or greater. Particle size analysis of soils may be performed by this test method or Test Method D 422. This test method also describes a qualitative evaluation of sand particle shape.
1.2 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
A dense, uniform stand of turfgrass on a playing surface improves the playing quality and safety of the field by providing firm footing for the athletes and by cushioning their impact from falls, tackles or slides. These standards are the minimum inputs required to provide such a surface. Various published guides have been used in the development of this standard (1-8).3  
Field conditions may directly influence the frequency and type of athletic injuries occurring as a result of using the fields. While these standards do not guarantee that such injuries will be prevented, a well maintained turf on a natural playing surface should minimize field-related injuries.
SCOPE
1.1 This guide covers the minimum requirements for maintaining warm-season turfgrasses used for natural surface athletic fields. Practices covered include mowing, fertilization, irrigation, core cultivation, winter overseeding, pest management, and requirements for management of dormant turf winter overseeded with cool-season turf (see also Guide F 2060).
1.2 The decisions involved in maintaining a quality natural playing surface should consider soil types, local climate and other factors. Therefore, it is recommended that you contact your local cooperative extension service for more specific information on soils, and grass species and cultivars adapted to your area.
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values in parentheses are for information only.
1.4 This standard may involve hazardous materials, operations, and equipment. This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory requirements prior to use.

ABSTRACT
These test methods establish the apparatus required, and standard calculations and procedures executed for quantifying the percent organic matter of volume ratio mixed putting green and sports turf root zone mixtures (except peat and other organic soils). Method A is performed by determining the loss on ignition (LOI). Method B or the Walkley Black method, on the other hand, is performed by a dichromate oxidation procedure whereby the color intensity of the reaction product is determined colorimetrically.
SCOPE
1.1 These test methods cover the determination of the percent organic matter of a putting green root zone mixture using a loss on ignition method or the Walkley Black method. These test methods are useful for quantifying the organic matter content of volume ratio mixed root zone mixes. Test Method D 2974 is recommended for peat and other organic soils.
1.2 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use, nor the disposal of hazardous waste that may be generated. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For a specific precautionary statement, see 8.2.6.

SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers the determination of particle size distribution of putting green and other sand-based rootzone mixes. Particles larger than 0.05 mm (retained on a No. 270 sieve) are determined by sieving. The silt and clay percentages are determined by a sedimentation process, using the pipet method. This procedure was developed for putting green rootzone mixes, those assumed to have sand contents of 80 % by weight or greater. Particle size analysis of soils may be performed by this test method or Test Method D 422. This test method also describes a qualitative evaluation of sand particle shape.
1.2 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

SCOPE
1.1 These test methods cover the determination of the percent organic matter of a putting green root zone mixture using a loss on ignition method or the Walkley Black method. These test methods are useful for quantifying the organic matter content of volume ratio mixed root zone mixes. Test Method D 2974 is recommended for peat and other organic soils.  
1.2 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For a specific precautionary statement, see 8.2.6.

SCOPE
1.1 This guide covers techniques that are appropriate for the construction and maintenance of skinned areas on sports fields. This guide provides guidance for the selection of materials, such as soil, sand, gravel, crushed stone, crushed brick, calcined clay, calcined diatomaceous earth, vitrified clay, etc., for use in constructing or reconditioning skinned areas and for the selection of management practices that will maintain a safe and playable skinned surface. Although parts of this guide are specific to baseball/softball, it has application to other skinned playing surfaces where ball bounce, ball roll, and/or player footing are of importance.
1.2 Decisions in selecting construction and maintenance techniques are influenced by existing soil types, climatic factors, level of play, intensity of use, equipment available, budget, and training and ability of management personnel.
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values in parentheses are for information only.
1.4 This standard may involve hazardous materials, operations, and equipment. This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory requirements prior to use.

SCOPE
1.1 This guide covers techniques that are appropriate for the construction and maintenance of skinned areas on sports fields. This guide provides guidance for the selection of materials, such as soil, sand, gravel, crushed stone, crushed brick, calcined clay, calcined diatomaceous earth, vitrified clay, etc., for use in constructing or reconditioning skinned areas and for the selection of management practices that will maintain a safe and playable skinned surface. Although parts of this guide are specific to baseball/softball, it has application to other skinned playing surfaces where ball bounce, ball roll, and/or player footing are of importance.
1.2 Decisions in selecting construction and maintenance techniques are influenced by existing soil types, climatic factors, level of play, intensity of use, equipment available, budget, and training and ability of management personnel.
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values in parentheses are for information only.
1.4 This standard may involve hazardous materials, operations, and equipment. This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory requirements prior to use.

SCOPE
1.1 This guide covers the minimum requirements for maintaining cool season turfgrasses used for natural surface athletic fields. Practices covered include mowing, fertilization, irrigation, core cultivation, overseeding, and pest management.
1.2 The decisions involved in maintaining a quality natural playing surface should consider soil types, local climate and other factors; therefore, it is recommended that you contact your local cooperative extension service for more specific information on soils, and grass species and cultivars adapted to your area.
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers the determination of particle size distribution of putting green and other sand based root zone mixes. Particles larger than 0.05 mm (retained on a No. 270 sieve) are determined by sieving. The silt and clay percentages are determined by a sedimentation process, using the pipet method. This procedure was developed for putting green rootzone mixes; those assumed to have sand contents of 80% by weight or greater. Particle size analysis of soils may be performed by this or other test methods described in Section 2. This test method also describes a qualitative evaluation of sand particle shape.  
1.2 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

SCOPE
1.1 These test methods cover the determination of the percent organic matter of a putting green root zone mixture using a loss on ignition method or the Walkley Black method. These test methods are useful for quantifying the organic matter content of volume ratio mixed root zone mixes. Test Method D 2974 is recommended for peat and other organic soils.  
1.2 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For a specific precautionary statement, see 8.2.6.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
The Gmax values obtained by these procedures are indicative of the cushioning properties of playing surfaces. Optional time history data can be used to describe further these properties.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers the determination of shock-attenuation characteristics of natural turfgrass and soil playing surface systems using lightweight portable apparatus. This test method is applicable for comparing natural surfaces and for assessing the effects of management practices on shock attenuation. This test method also can be used to assess the compactibility of natural surfaces by recording G max values or penetration of successive impacts, or both.  
1.2 This test method provides a procedure for assessing impact characteristics in the field, on actual playing surfaces and on research plots. Numerical data will not be comparable to data obtained using a different missile mass or geometry, using a different drop height, or using a different standard method, for example, Test Method F 355.  
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.  
1.4 This standard may involve hazardous materials, operations and equipment. This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers the determination of shock-attenuation characteristics of natural turf grass and soil playing surface systems using lightweight portable apparatus. This test method is applicable for comparing natural surfaces and for assessing the effects of management practices on shock attenuation. This test method also can be used to assess the compatibility of natural surfaces by recording G max values or penetration of successive impacts, or both.  
1.2 This test method provides a procedure for assessing impact characteristics in the field, on actual playing surfaces and on research plots. Numerical data will not be comparable to data obtained using a different missile mass or geometry, using a different drop height, or using a different standard method, for example, Test Method F 355.  
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.  
1.4 This standard may involve hazardous materials, operations and equipment. This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.