Bare Areas and Effect on Playing Quality

The actual effect of bare areas on playing quality will depend on the sport being played and especially the extent of the bare area, but in general terms the following effects may typically arise:
• The soil profile can become harder, producing a higher bounce to a ball.
• The soil can erode and disintegrate more rapidly, especially where little root system is present. This will result in limited soil binding by the few roots that are present.
• The surface can become more uneven, introducing a potential trip hazard, or affect players running at speed.
• Surface traction will be poorer due to no grass and this will be exacerbated where rooting is poor.
• The exposed surface can be more liable to colonisation from algae, moss, weed grasses and weeds. This can create a slippery surface and one that is visually unattractive.
• The bare surface soil can more readily turn into a muddy surface following rainfall or irrigation. Traction is reduced making it more difficult for players to control a ball and/or reduce their ability to turn and change direction quickly.
• A reduction in the cushioning effect provided to players due to a lack of surface vegetation.
• Increased potential for waterlogging, especially where soil structure is poor. This will lead to poorer playing surfaces and increased likelihood of match cancellations.