JULY 2007

Choosing the right surface for your sports field, facility or playground is like buying a new car. There are shiny and sleek products on the market, but the real test is making sure you get what you paid for, as well as a product that will last. The options may be overwhelming, but a little research and a lot of careful planning can ensure you get the most play out of your surface.

Forward-thinking recreation managers have made playgrounds ground zero in the winnable war against childhood obesity. We offer tips for creating the perfect place for daily physical activity, giving kids a free place to run, jump and build muscle.

With the public's perception of the ice rink limited to winter use, it can be difficult to ensure a rink is self-sustaining, let alone profitable. We consider some strategies to get more of the right skaters onto the ice.

Managers of recreational facilities must implement training and procedures to prevent the key unique risks associated with aquatic venues. Advances continue to be made to minimize these risks. Prevention is paramount.

If you have not yet implemented a scheduling and management system at your facility, there are a variety of key items for you to consider as you begin the selection process.

Recreational water illness has been a hot topic this year. We consider some solutions for destroying germs and keeping them out of commercial aquatic facilities.

The Sports Club/LA in Orange County offers a junior Olympic size pool, but cloudy water was causing customer complaints. Saline chlorination offered a solution.

The 82-acre Techny Park and Prairie in Northbrook, Ill., provides a one-stop recreation shop for residents, with a large range of amenities, from sports fields to an educational trail.

The Bronx Zoo has been educating and entertaining visitors since 1999, with a strong focus on environmental conservation that even extends to its restrooms.