Editor’s note: This article was initially published in The Daily Gazette, Swarthmore’s online, daily newspaper founded in Fall 1996. As of Fall 2018, the DG has merged with The Phoenix. See the about page to read more about the DG.
According to Director of Grounds Jeff Jabco, the areas outside of Tarble and on Parrish Beach are currently undergoing “turf renovation.” Renovation of the turf consists of “aerating the soil, applying lime and fertilizer if needed, reseeding and applying an organic topdressing.” Heavily trafficked areas get this treatment every five to six years in order to keep the grass alive and the weeds at bay.
Back to the question of when we can get back to shortcuts, Jabco said, “we like to give the young grass plants the longest amount of time to get established. We will take down the signs in December, but we will probably keep posts and string up to keep people from making shortcuts across the lawn. The turf won’t really be ready for heavy use again until next spring.”
Has taking the long way around acquainted you with new parts of campus? Ask the Gazette your questions at dailygazette [at] swarthmore [dot] edu.