2100 Observatory Drive | Madison, WI 53706 | (608) 262 – 8244
The West Recreation Fields are the first completed project of the Master Plan. The fields are lined (painted) for a variety of sports, including baseball, softball, flag football, soccer, lacrosse, and more.
The primary uses of the West Recreation Fields are intramural sports, sport club practices and events, and open recreation.
Hours of Operation
| Dates | Hours |
|---|---|
| August 25 - November 26 | Sunrise to 9pm |
| November 27 - January 18 | CLOSED |
Facility Features
- Easily configurable for flag football, soccer, lacrosse, rugby, and more
- Baseball and softball fields with backstops and dugouts
- Perimeter fence, gated entry points, concrete walkways, and landscaping
- Dedicated scoreboards for each field
- Batting cage with equipment available for rental
Synthetic Turf System
Features
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Ecofill
- Free of heavy metal and Polycyclic Anomatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs)
- Recyclable
- Reduces field temperatures up to 70%
- Odor-free
4Nx Fiber
- State-of-the-art new generation monofilament
- 400 micron thickness improves memory and resilience
- Two-tone color provides a natural look
- Up to 16,000 Dtex (linear density)
- Semi-concave structure with reinforced asymmetric spines
Fine-Tuned Underlayment
- Provides consistent resiliency across entire playing field
- Improved G-max values, guaranteed over the life of the field
- Improves Head Injury Criterion (HIC) values, which helps reduce concussive injuries
- Acts as a unique drainage layer
- Made of 95% post-consumer recycled content
Benefits
- Most playable surface for multiple activities
- First-ever FIFA 2-star rated turf system in the world
- Allows athletes to move in acceleration, rotation, extension, and torsion with a performance similar to that obtained on natural grass
- Ecofill does not migrate due to play or weather
- Unaltered performance over time
- Exceptional ball to surface interaction
- Higher density fill resulting in lower bounce and lower static electricity
- Non-toxic
Lighting System
Features
- 172 LED fixtures
- Average of 30.8 footcandles (minimum 20, maximum 54)
- Compared to previous flood lighting average of 15.6 footcandles (minimum 5, maximum 25)
Benefits
- Low cost of operation (expected savings of more than $20,000 over a 10-year period)
- Shielded structure to reduce light pollution and glare beyond property line
- Better for night sky with bright, uniform light directed to the field and not spilling above it or outside of field dimensions
- Designed to be maintenance-free for 25 years
- Instant on/off capability (previous metal halide lights could take up to 15 minutes to fully turn on)
Photos
FAQs
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How do I reserve the turf?
As is the case for all Rec Well facilities and outdoor spaces, the turf field can be reserved for special events by student organizations, university departments or community groups. To rent space, fill out our Special Events Request Form online. On this site, you will also find policies, procedures, requirements, and pricing.
Where is the main entry to the facility?
The main entrance to the facility is on Observatory Drive across from the Biotron Laboratory.
Which lines are permanent on the field?
This site is the destination for several organized sports. Flag football and one soccer field have full permanent lines on the field. Soccer, baseball, softball, and lacrosse have some permanent lines or key markings on the field that can be completed with synthetic turf paint as necessary. Ultimate frisbee can also be played on the flag football fields.
Is sports equipment available for checkout?
No, but you are welcome to bring your own equipment for use. Any equipment requiring stakes is not permitted on the turf.
Why are the goals locked?
Our smaller goals are locked up when they are not being used for scheduled activities. This decision is to protect the quality of the fields and ultimately provide a safe space for individuals to use. We have seen continued damage and unsafe playing conditions created from people incorrectly moving and placing goals across these fields.
Where are the bathrooms?
The nearest bathrooms are on the west side of the Bakke Recreation & Wellbeing Center.
Where are the water fountains?
There is water at the main entrance and the softball field located near Bakke.
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When do the lights shut off?
The lights are scheduled to remain on during scheduled programming such as Intramural Sports, Sport Clubs, or special events. When these programs are not scheduled, the lights are on from sunset to 9pm.
Can I bring tents onto the turf?
Tents or other equipment requiring stakes are not permitted on the turf. Tents that can be secured with water barrels or other approved weights are allowed.
Can I wear cleats on the turf?
Rubber or plastic cleats are permitted on the turf. Metal cleats are not allowed.
Can I have food or drinks on the field?
Water in sealable and shatterproof containers is permitted within the facility, but no other food or drink is allowed.
Are kites allowed on the turf?
Due to the close proximity to the UW Hospital and the need to medevac patients, kites are not permitted on West Recreation Fields.
Are drones allowed on the turf?
In accordance with UW-Madison Policies and Guidelines and FAA requirements, drones are not allowed on West Recreation Fields
Can I bring my pet?
Service animals are permitted on the West Recreation Fields. No other pets are allowed on the fields.