The decision on whether to use artificial turf at two Nyack High School athletic fields has many parents concerned with their children?s safety.

Recent reports show artificial turf could be hazardous since it is made out of recycled tires, which have toxic metals and carcinogenic chemicals. However, an opposing study found different results that say artificial turf poses no health risks.

Nyack School Board President Brian Burell says the current fields are unsafe. In addition, Burell says the board has done its homework when it comes to the safety of the artificial turf replacements. Many parents still feel that grass fields would be better and plan to fight the board if the artificial turf measure is passed.

The artificial turf fields are just one aspect of a $16 million referendum that addresses safety and security concerns at the schools. Nyack School District residents will vote on the referendum Dec. 11.