Starting in the spring of 2017, the turf they play on would be sprayed twice a year with synthetic pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers.

As a scientist myself, I must point out these synthetic chemicals have been repeatedly shown in the scientific literature to have mild to serious adverse health effects. This is an unnecessary exposure to all of us; people, pets and environment. A decision is expected to be announced on Dec. 13.

Speaking as someone who cares a great deal about our community and our environment, I encourage all of you to speak out – before Dec. 13 – in support of keeping all eight parks in the Organically Managed Lands Program! My hope is that this program will succeed at its current level and expand in the years to come.

Acknowledging the importance of this issue as a community will allow us to act with high standards to meet all of the multi-use interests for our parks and open spaces in a safe and responsible way. Thank you for your consideration and action on this important community matter.

For information on the Organic Parks Program visit http://www.durangogov.org (Home>Departments>Parks & Recreation>Parks, Open Space, Trails & Animas River>Organically Managed Lands).

For information on Durango’s Herbicide and Pesticide use visit http://www.durangogov.org/DocumentCenter/View/7324.

For information on Durango Parks and Recreation Fertilization and Weed Abatement Schedule visithttp://www.durangogov.org (Home>Departments>Parks & Recreation>Parks, Open Space, Trails & Animas River).

Share your comments with the City Council at [email protected], and Cathy Metz, the City Parks and Recreation Director recommending removal of these parks from the program at [email protected].

You can also reach out to the principals at Park and Needham Elementary Schools.

Ellen Smith

Durango