The Case For An Indoor Turf Field: Investing In Our Community, Protecting Our Island

To the editor: After attending recent Board of Health meetings concerning the proposed artificial turf field and conducting our own independent research, we have come to two inescapable conclusions.

#1: Our current field arrangement is failing our athletes. Between last summer’s drought and this winter’s storms, maintaining the fields in playable condition has become incredibly challenging. The resulting poor field conditions and lost practice time is directly impacting the mental and physical health of our students.

#2: Regardless of the infill used, a 20,000-pound carpet of plastic blades placed over our sole-source aquifer is a risk we cannot afford. When plastic that is exposed to UV radiation and changing temperatures breaks down over time, microplastics and nanoplastics are released. Scientists have identified wind as a primary vector for dispersing microplastics. We cannot conceive of any system for an outdoor field that could contain the wind and prevent it from carrying these pollutants into our soil, public water supply, and marine ecosystems.

In light of the installation being proposed to address the first concern, it may seem as if these conclusions are at odds. However, if we were to build an indoor athletic facility in which to house a turf field, we could remove the common denominator- the weather– and address both concerns simultaneously.

By placing a foundation under the turf and shielding it from UV rays and the elements, we could protect our aquifer and ecosystems while significantly extending the turf carpet's lifespan. Furthermore, an indoor facility would provide our students with guaranteed practice hours while creating a year-round recreation space accessible to the community, much like our community pool does now.

The primary objection will be cost. But we must ask: what is the long-term cost of a contaminated aquifer? If our water becomes undrinkable or our harbors unfishable, the health ​and economic toll will be inestimable. ​In addition, an outdoor field is a "disposable" asset that has a limited lifespan and must be replaced – at a cost of millions each time.

Conversely, an indoor facility is a generational asset that would pay significant dividends by protecting our environment while providing a versatile space for all. It would offer a venue to support our students as they practice and cheer them on as they play; a place to exercise regardless of the weather; and could provide a hub to gather, celebrate, and create lasting memories together.

Where will the funding come from for this investment in our community? Nantucket has a history of thinking outside the box and manifesting dreams. Over the years, many beneficial projects have been completed including a community pool, an ice rink, paddle tennis courts, a community farm, public golf courses, and athletic fields for adult play.

An indoor athletic facility would offer a long-term benefit to our entire community, so why not let our community get behind it? Perhaps the School could partner with entities such as the Town and the Land Bank. There could be individuals who wish to contribute. The Community Foundation might consider creating a fund to accept donations on behalf of the facility.

If we come together and set our minds to it, we can support our athletes while protecting the health of our environment and our entire community. Let’s choose the path that honors Nantucket’s history of visionary thinking and stewardship, ensuring that as we build for our children’s success, we aren't compromising the very island they will inherit.

Michelle Whelan, Devon Coffin, Polly Miller