PHOTO:MATTHEW THORSEN

When Burlington High School's new $4.3 million playing field is finally unveiled later this fall, it won't require mowing or watering or use of pesticides, fertilizers or herbicides. The artificial FieldTurf to be installed is a lot tougher than the natural grass it's replacing, and a lot easier on athletes' bodies, according to its manufacturer.

An information kit released by the Montréal-based FieldTurf Tarkett says the "monofilament fiber" that simulates individual blades of grass is durable yet "remains silky and lush, just like nature intended." Instead of dirt, infill consists of washed silica sand mixed with recycled rubber tires that have been frozen and shattered.

The FieldTurf "system" comes in 20 colors -- handy for blazing the home team's logo on the centerline. Does anyone opt for wild hues on the field itself? "Boise State has a blue field," says marketing manager Darren Gill. "Everyone else goes with the green." Including BHS.