The following PSA was issued on Wednesday, March 30, 2011:

Spring may be in the air, but HRM`s grass fields won`t be ready for the busy playing season for some time. Municipal crews have maintenance work to do before the fields can be opened for the season.

Using ball diamonds and sport fields too early can cause damage to turf that can delay season start up. As the fields have not been maintained over the winter months, they can also pose risks to users.

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/BookingsandRentals

To report any mis-use of fields or to advise of safety concerns, vandalism, etc., contact our Corporate Call Centre at 490-4000.` As of this date, all Natural Turf/Grass Ball Diamonds and Sport Fields remain CLOSED.

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 am to 4:30

Source: http://www.bedfordbeacon.com/hrm-field-conditions