2008 Field Maintenance Plan

click here to see who’s on the "Three Hour List"

 

Keeping Rick Cooper Memorial Park ready-for-rugby is difficult because HRC currently lacks access to commercial-grade mower.  Since other plans have fallen through, we must reinstate the “3 Hour Club” maintenance plan.

Instead of having a large tractor only a handful of people will operate, we have a small 42” lawn tractor anyone can operate. 

Advantages:

  • Small tractor can be stored offsite, away from would-be vandals.
  • Tractor can run all day on 5 gallons of gas.
  • Repairs, when necessary, are relatively cheap. Parts readily available.
  • Tractor is owned by a team member and used by the club at no cost.
  • Entire grounds can be maintained by regulating speed and blade height.

Disadvantages:

  • Mowing must be scheduled to coordinate delivery/pickup of mower.
  • It definitely takes longer (about 3 hours per pitch).
  • If we let the grass go too long, we will eventually have to rent a large tractor to bush-hog the non-pitch areas.

Admittedly, this plan is less than ideal, but it has been proven to work if we all do our share.  If everyone on the team mows a single 3 hour shift this Summer, I predict no player will have to mow more that 3 hours this summer. 

Notes:

  • Shifts should not be scheduled to far in advance. 
  • Mowing frequency should be regulated by the mower’s owner: Derek Drury
  • Time spent on other field-related work is appreciated, but cannot be counted toward a player’s mowing commitment.
  • If you find yourself with more money than time, you can pay someone to fulfill your commitment or buy excess hours from members on the "Three Hour List".
  • Don’t forget your IPod and Sunscreen
  • This plan will be refined as necessary.  Check the web for the latest official word.
  • If you have time on your hands, call Derek and see if you can schedule a session (cell 679-5934). Weekdays and evenings are not out of the question.

Please notify me at DerekDrury@yahoo.com when you complete your 3 hour shift.  I will post your name on the "Three Hour List" (unless you request anonymity).

 

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