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20 <br />Experimental Station concluded that the tire crumbs release chemical <br />compounds into the air and ground water. Many studies conducted by the CDC <br />and others have determined that inhalation or ingestion of this material is <br />dangerous. High levels of lead were found in the older fields studied, which if <br />inhaled or ingested can cause adverse health effects including developmental <br />delay and behavior problems. <br />The CDC also stated "The risk for harmful lead exposure is low from new fields <br />with elevated lead levels in their turf fibers because the turf fibers are still intact <br />and the lead is unlikely to be available for harmful exposures to occur." They <br />also added that " At this time, CDC does not yet understand the potential risks <br />associated with exposure to dust from worn artificial turf." The June 2008 CDC <br />Health advisory does not recommend discontinued use of synthetic turf facilities, <br />but instead recommends precautions for the field manager and the user. <br />Alternative infill options have not been found. The use of recycled tire material <br />appears to be standard in the industry. Each manufacturer claims that its <br />product is "safe" and installations continue to occur all over the country. UNC <br />recently replaced the turf on its Fetzer Field with a product containing recycled <br />rubber tire infill. <br />It seems likely that these products can be safely used with responsible <br />management and with a commitment to replacement close to warranty <br />expiration, which is typically 8-10 years. Continued use often occurs well beyond <br />the expiration of manufacturers warranty periods. It would seem prudent that <br />testing should be undertaken at this point to determine whether the infill products <br />or the turf itself is breaking down to the point that it might pose a health hazard. <br />Replacement costs typically run about half of the cost of the original installation. <br />Potential Benefits <br />Showing Results from the 2001 Parks and Open Space Bond - As recently <br />noted, the Soccer Superfund is one of the projects from the 2001 bond where <br />funding remains unspent. A portion of the funds was allocated and has been <br />spent on the West Ten fields. Using the remaining funds for the most viable <br />project that is closest to shovel ready would benefit the soccer community. <br />Possible Town Involvement - Either project would require full approvals and <br />partnerships to some degree with the respective town. <br />