HRM would like to advise the general public and clients of outdoor athletic fields that although staff have begun preparing fields for play, wet spring weather is having an adverse effect on opening dates for the 2011 Season.

Municipal Operations and Scheduling Staff are working closely to ensure clients are notified on any changes that may have to take place with previously requested field opening dates. Municipal crews continue to revise their work schedules to carry out field maintenance work as weather allows in order for fields to be opened for the season.

Using Ball Diamonds and Sport Fields under the current field conditions can cause damage to turf which can delay season start up. Both All Weather Turf Facilities (Halifax/Mainland Common and Dartmouth/Burnside) are now open and available to be scheduled.

For Scheduling information for the 2011 Season, please contact the appropriate Scheduling Office by calling 490-7100 or visit our website at www.halifax.ca/rec .

To report any mis-use of fields or to advise of safety concerns, vandalism, etc., contact our Corporate Call Centre at 490-4000.

Please note: As of this date, all Natural Turf Sport Fields are CLOSED for play; all Ball Diamonds are closed for play with the exception of Burnside and Maybank #`s 2 & 3 which are open for play today. All requests for Sport Field use should be directed to our All Weather Sport Fields (490-4003).

This would include both the Mainland Common and Burnside facilities. For clients in the Bedford/Sackville area, inquiries for bookings for the Weir facility may be directed to 865-9449.

At this time, both the Harbour East and Mainland Common All Weather Sport Facilities may be available for use, depending on staff availability and weather/turf conditions. Please note that any damages caused to any and all turf as a result of unscheduled or unauthorized use could impact the ability to open fields for this season.

Any use of HRM facilities without the appropriate authorization or when fields are closed will result in fines and possible loss of future scheduling privileges.

For additional information please contact your Scheduling Office by calling 490-7100. Office hours are Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Source: http://www.bedfordbeacon.com/field-conditions-as-of-monday-may-2