Resident critiques artificial turf health risks during public discussion in New Hampshire

The Cumberland Town Council meeting on February 24, 2025, featured a public discussion segment that allowed residents to voice their opinions on topics not listed on the agenda. During this time, a visitor from New Hampshire expressed strong support for the council's recent decision to discontinue the use of recycled tires in artificial turf, advocating instead for natural turf.

The speaker highlighted concerns regarding the safety of synthetic infill made from ground-up tires, referencing a lack of testing on the materials used in such products. He cited a report by Amy Griffin, a soccer coach who has documented a troubling number of cancer cases among soccer players, particularly goalkeepers, linking these cases to exposure to crumb rubber. The speaker emphasized that early studies indicated the presence of toxic elements in crumb rubber, raising alarms about its safety for children.

In addition to his personal advocacy, the speaker shared statistics comparing cancer treatment outcomes in the United States and the United Kingdom, suggesting that differences in medical systems could impact survival rates. He concluded his remarks by illustrating the potential dangers of crumb rubber, pointing out how particles can become airborne and pose health risks.

The public discussion segment allowed for a robust exchange of ideas, with the council open to revisiting these topics under new business for further deliberation. The meeting underscored the community's engagement with health and safety issues related to local recreational facilities.