Why so green? CES seeds base track

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Shen-Chia Chu
  • 436th AW Public Affairs
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. --  The 436th Civil Engineer Squadron has recently hydro-seeded the intramural sports field located at the base track.

With a mixture of water, grass seed, fertilizer and other chemicals, 436th CES has the right tools for the job.

As early as 6 a.m. out on the base track, Staff Sgt. Matthew Novak, 436th CES, puts a sign out to close down the track as a hydro-seeding truck mixes the recipe and is sprayed onto the field.

"Reseeding helps to beautify the base and provides Team Dover members a better, greener field to enjoy their intramural sports activities," said Sergeant Novak.

"I played intramural football for my previous base and I think players would agree with me they'd rather land on a softer, greener field when they go for a tackle. You wouldn't have to worry about getting rug burn or skin up on your legs."

It has been about two years since the field has been replanted, according to Staff Sgt. Matthew Novak, 436th CES.

Mindy Rolkowski, 436th Services Squadron Fitness Center director, said the grass is off limits for Team Dover until further notice, but the track will remain open.

"If the grass isn't fully rooted, individuals playing on the field will tear up the new grass," said Mrs. Rolkowski. "There won't be any grass, it will just be mud and dirt."

According to Sergeant Novak, the reseeding process is working well, but needs time to build a stronger foundation before the grass grows thicker in volume.

"Taking care of this field is like taking care of my own yard. I take pride in knowing this field will be put to good use. For me, a freshly-cut green field brings back memories of school yard football," said the sergeant.

"We appreciate (436th) CES taking the time to reseed the field. It will be a great improvement toward our upcoming flag football season and I think intramural players will appreciate it as well," Mrs. Rolkowski said.