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P a g e | 8 A P P E N D I X B <br /> Shrub beds for the most part appeared to be well maintained and weeded. <br /> As a whole, park grounds were very free of litter. <br /> <br /> <br />Recommendations <br /> <br /> Monitor soil moisture conditions and irrigate turf areas to provide adequate moisture for <br />healthy growth while maintaining a playable surface that is not muddy, spongy or over <br />saturated. This will help to prevent tearing and uprooting of the turf and topsoil under normal <br />playing conditions. <br /> Annually (October/November) test soil to assess nutrient deficiencies, following with an <br />application of appropriate fertilizer and/or soil additives to promote healthy root growth. Soil <br />fertility fluctuates throughout the growing season with the quantity and availability of mineral <br />nutrients altered by the addition of fertilizers, sulfur, lime, etc. and the removal from soils as a <br />result of plant growth and development. Soil test should be taken at various locations <br />dependent on the plant material and its ability to grow in various soil conditions. <br /> <br />Sports Fields <br /> <br />Existing Conditions <br /> <br />At the majority of park locations sports turf was maintained in an excellent playable condition. The City <br />policy is to end all play on sports fields after December 15th each year to prevent substantial damage to <br />the turf. <br /> <br />Over the past several years the city has moved towards increasing the amount of mowing by private <br />contractors. As a result manpower now spends 18% of their time mowing compared to a previous high <br />of 27%. <br /> <br />Pleasanton through a joint use agreement with the Pleasanton School District utilizes middle school <br />fields for scheduled organized sports. Due to multiple reasons, including use by both the school and <br />city, the fields are generally in poor condition. Problems include failing sprinkler systems, uneven <br />surfaces, bare spots due to lack of water, and lack of preventative maintenance. <br /> <br />This past year the City instituted a $25 surcharge per player to pay for the additional turf maintenance <br />(contract) at 5 schools; Hart MS, Pleasanton MS, Harvest Park MS, Alisal & Donlon Elementary <br />Schools. All of sports groups that use fields pay the fee. The City collected approximately $200, 000, <br />with the funds utilized to pay the costs associated with water and for improved field maintenance at the <br />middle schools. The City in cooperation with the School District now issues contracts for regular <br />maintenance including topdressing, aeration of turf, and sprinkler repair. <br /> <br />The park tours were conducted during daylight hours. Therefore, lighting systems on sports fields could <br />not be checked for proper illumination including 1) alignment of luminaries to avoid dark spots on the <br />playing fields, and 2) proper functioning of light fixtures such as burnt out bulbs. <br /> <br />In general, fences, backstops, bleachers and benches were in good repair showing evidence of regular <br />and on-going maintenance.