Rain doesn’t always have to bring a game to a halt. Grounds crews can protect the playing surface before bad weather creates mud or leaves standing water across the field. With smart preparation and proper tarp handling, crews can shorten weather-related interruptions and get athletes back on the field sooner. Continue reading to explore how proper tarp use can prevent game delays.
Cover the Field Early
Timing is critical to successful tarp use. Grounds crews should monitor approaching weather and cover vulnerable areas before rainfall saturates the soil. Waiting until heavy rain begins can make tarp placement more difficult and allow moisture to reach the playing surface.
Crews can use baseball field covers to shield the infield and other high-traffic areas from rain. A properly placed cover limits the amount of water that reaches the dirt, helping crews avoid lengthy drying work after the storm passes.
Secure the Tarp Correctly
A tarp can’t protect the field effectively if wind lifts an edge or rain runs underneath it. Crews should position the cover carefully and secure it based on the field’s layout and weather conditions.
Teams should also check the tarp during longer weather events when conditions allow. Wind can shift a cover, while pooling water can create extra weight. Early attention can prevent a small placement problem from turning into a larger cleanup job.
Remove Water With Care
Once the rain stops, crews need to remove the tarp without dumping collected water onto the playing surface. Thoughtful removal keeps runoff away from areas that crews worked to protect.
Grounds teams should direct collected water toward a suitable drainage area whenever possible. Careful handling also helps crews move the tarp efficiently without spreading mud across nearby sections of the field.
Maintain the Cover Between Games
Good tarp use starts long before rain enters the forecast. Crews should inspect covers for tears and damaged seams before the season and throughout regular use. Quick repairs can keep a small problem from reducing protection during the next storm.
Proper storage also helps extend a cover’s useful life. Crews should clean off debris and allow the tarp to dry before storing it. A well-maintained cover will remain easier to handle when fast-moving weather approaches.
Keep Games Moving
Weather will always challenge outdoor sports schedules, but preparation gives grounds crews more control over the response. Proper tarp placement can protect the playing surface and reduce the time crews spend dealing with excess water.
When the grounds crew covers the field early and handles the tarp properly, they can help to prevent game delays. A dependable tarp plan won’t stop the weather, but it can help keep a brief delay from becoming a canceled game.
