A volunteer from the Smyrna, Georgia, branch of ValleyCrest Landscape Maintenance makes a weed-control application to the outfield of a ball field at Fair Oaks Park during the “Healthy Turf Healthy Kids” renovation project.Photo: Project EverGreen
Childhood obesity is nothing to scoff at, as the rate has doubled in the past 30 years. Fingers can be pointed at many different causes, but Project EverGreen prefers to point toward solutions. The non-profit organization’s “Healthy Turf Healthy Kids” program is designed in part to help turn the tide against the harmful trend.
Studies have shown that outdoor playtime is important for children. By creating safe, up-to-date recreational spaces, Project EverGreen hopes to promote healthier lifestyles while supporting economic growth and community development at the same time. The green spaces also benefit the environment.
“Healthy Turf Healthy Kids” typically involve the improvement of existing sports fields and parks, restoring them to areas where children can play, exercise and connect. A series of 16 renovations in cities across the country are planned for this year.
Most recently, Project EverGreen completed a “Healthy Turf Healthy Kids” project at Fair Oaks Park in Marietta, Georgia. The organization had the support of the Cobb County Parks & Recreation Department and volunteers from ValleyCrest Landscape Maintenance.
More than 22,000 square feet of turf was replenished or restored. The work also included weed removal, aeration and fertilizer application. The Marietta project was valued at $3,000. The improved baseball and softball fields will be used by an estimated 5,000 local residents who play on both youth and adult teams.
If there is a renovation project in your community that you want considered, contact Project EverGreen at 877-758-4835.
