To the editor:

As a member of this community and a concerned teenager, I am compelled to speak out against the proposed installation of artificial turf fields at Barrington Middle School and High School. Additionally, as co-founder of the Barrington Environmental Establishment (BEE), I know the importance of advocating for sustainability in our community. This issue transcends mere convenience; it is a threat to the health and well-being of Barrington residents, particularly student athletes. It could also have potential negative impacts on groundwater and wildlife.

Artificial turf - both older versions and newer versions (that dubiously claim to be organic and recyclable) - is often promoted as an ideal solution for sports fields, but it presents significant health risks. Research from The Mount Sinai Children’s Environmental Health Center warns against the use of artificial turf due to potential dangers such as excessive heat, and chemical exposures to toxic substances like PFAS. PFAS are chemical substances linked to cancers, immune dysfunction, and developmental harm. Other health concerns include sports injuries such as skin burns (and related potential bacterial infections such as MRSA) and lower limb injuries due to slippery playing surfaces. These aren’t just abstract, dystopian risks; they are very real concerns.

Being a teenager, I do not pay real estate taxes. However, I am concerned about what will happen in approximately 10 years when these synthetic fields wear out. After spending millions of dollars purchasing and maintaining these fields, Barrington taxpayers will then have to pay to dispose of them and replace them. No landfill will accept expired artificial turf. Also, consider the energy costs needed to manufacture these fields and then recycle them (if recycling is ever possible) and the resulting carbon emissions.

I was a sailing instructor to 6- and 7-year-olds this summer. It made me think how devastating it would be if a decision made by our community could jeopardize the health of similar children. Watching those children over the summer has reinforced my belief that we owe all of Barrington’s younger generation safe spaces to grow and thrive. They deserve protection from the threats posed by artificial turf. We cannot afford to let convenience overshadow our responsibility to their future health and well-being.

Early voting starts on Oct. 16 for the November election. Please think critically about this issue. This isn’t simply a decision about how we should improve school and town playing fields. It’s about the health of our student athletes, the potential negative impact to our environment and the very high costs to Barrington taxpayers. The best option is to improve/enhance all natural grass fields controlled by the town. Money earmarked for the Middle School fields bond could be used for this purpose.

Please consider voting No to both ballot questions: 1) the bond to fund the artificial turf fields at Barrington Middle School; and 2) allowing installation of artificial turf fields on town playing fields in the future.

Sincerely, 

Emma Pautz 

Barrington

Pautz is a Barrington High School student.