Bernards Township Environmental Commission
February 12, 2013
Township Committee of Bernards Township,
For consideration in the complex decision regarding the proposed artificial turf at the Ridge
Baseball Complex, the Environmental Commission wishes to ensure that the TC is aware of the
environmental and health risks associated with modern artificial turf. The attached presentation
from Joel Forman, MD of the Mount Sinai School of Medicine Children’s Environmental Health
Center is illuminating and is worthy of consideration. We would especially like to highlight
pages 12-14 which detail toxicity concerns over the crumb rubber pellets (often made from
shredded tires) and their potential for volatizing into the air and leaching into the water.
Please also note, the Complex’s current natural grass fields are managed under the Township’s
IPM Resolution implying that pesticides and synthetic fertilizers are not used and therefore
would not represent a reduction benefit in any potential change to artificial turf.
Thank you for your review,
(signed, February 12, 2013)
Paula Axt
Environmental Commission Chairperson
Art
turf_presentation Mt Sinai.pdf
277 South Maple Avenue, Basking Ridge, NJ 07920 (908) 204-3000