October 2004

Fairview's Field of Dreams up-date

The Central Local Board of Education received an update on the retooling of a number of its sports fields at it's September meeting .

In attendance were agricultural consultant Joe Nester, a Fairview High School alumnus who, along with fellow alumnus Brian Mavis, who are doing volunteer work to help restore the school football and softball fields. Nester explained the current status of the projects.

After Jewell Grain killed the existing grass on the football field according to the wishes of those involved, Timcor removed the field’s top portion. The soil of the original playing surface was tested and found to be heavy in clay, so Timcor brought in soil which included sand to help with irrigation and drainage.

Nester reported he had seeded the field according to Mavis' specifications. Due to the dry weather, sprinklers are being used to help water the field, but watering may have to shut down when surfacing of the track begins, perhaps as soon as Friday.                        .

The outfield of the softball field has been seeded, he noted, with touch-up and grade work coming. This field is also being watered, while fertilization is being done on both fields.

In response to inquiries from board members, Fairview High School principal Troy Merillat said the track is likely to be completed this fall. Winter may be much closer, he added, before certain areas of the softball field are finished. "There's not much chance in spring to do any construction.," Merillat said. "The ground's just too wet."