Santa Maria athletic fields closed due to rainfall

The City of Santa Maria announced a closure for all athletic fields in the city through next Wednesday due to recent rainfall.

The public is asked to stay off of wet fields that are saturated from the rain to help avoid damaging the grounds. In the past, use of the fields following prolonged rain has resulted in damage to the playing fields and long-term closures.

Santa Maria has received 8.27 inches of rain since January 1, and 13.51 inches total since September 1, 2016.

Staff determines the playability of fields on a daily basis and have determined no games or practices are allowed during or after rainfall, typically 1/4″ in a 24-hour period, for at least a minimum of 24 hours after the rain has ended.

Closure signs are posted at all fields, including Simas, Rotary, Edwards, Adam, Minami, Oakley, and Atkinson.

The Recreation and Parks Department’s field condition hotline is updated by 2:00 p.m. on weekdays. That number is (805) 925-0951 ext. 2981.