April 14, 2003

Columbia, Mo. - The University of Missouri Department of Athletics gave away portions of sod from Faurot Field today, and Tiger fans came out in droves to get their piece of the field. Approximately one-quarter of the playing surface was salvaged and offered to fans for free, and nearly 40 palettes were taken in a little over an hour Monday afternoon. The pick-up began at Noon and lasted until around 1 p.m.

Plans had called for turf to be available for pickup at the stadium Tuesday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and again Wednesday from 8 a.m. to Noon, based upon availability of supplies. Due to the depletion of supplies, no more pickup times are needed.

The cutting up of the surface is the first step of a project that will convert the playing surface at Faurot Field/Memorial Stadium from natural grass to an artificial surface. The brand of turf will be FieldTurf, as announced by the department last week.