Frequently Asked Questions

Manufactured sand or m10s may be used for arena sand and footing.  However, dust and compaction are the primary issues with using it.  M10s make a firm compactable surface that adds to the traction of the horse. Over time it may have to be amended with a coarser sand as it wears rapidly with use.  Irrigation can be a great tool to help keep the dust suppressed. 

Yes, mulch makes a great surface for playgrounds.  It is safe, non-toxic and provides cushion from falls.  It prevents muddy areas within the playing area.  RSI offers mulch designed specifically for playgrounds including Kid-Safe™ Mulch (meets/exceeds ASTM F1292, ASTM F2075, ASTM 1951, ADA Guidelines, CPSC Recommendations, IPEMA Certified).

Yes, River Sand is one of the best soil amendments to mix in the existing high clay content soil to relieve compaction and allow roots to penetrate deeper, resulting in a healthier turf grass, You can also topdress turf with River Sand such as bermuda, zoysia, and centipede to level the lawn to prevent scalping and also to encourage water to get down to the roots. 

Yes, River Sand is one of the best soil amendments to mix in the existing high clay content soil to relieve compaction and allow roots to penetrate deeper, resulting in a healthier turf grass, You can also topdress turf with River Sand such as bermuda, zoysia, and centipede to level the lawn to prevent scalping and also to encourage water to get down to the roots. 

Using topsoil or planting soils in potted plants instead of potting soil is not the best option.  Other soils can retain too much water and lead to heavy containers or improper drainage.  Potting soil is best used for potted plants to promote drainage and avoid root rot and compaction.  Topsoil and planting mixes are best suited for landscaping and gardening purposes.

Yes, dewatering bags are a great option to pump silt into from dredging a golf course pond.  Often, golf courses have areas suitable to place a dewatering tube to capture pumped sediment.  This method can also allow the course and hole to remain open.  Pipelines can be routed through the golf course to avoid damaging the fairways, greens, or cart paths. 

You can, but it is not recommended.  Potting soil is designed to drain well but retain moisture at the same time for potted plants.  Topsoil may not let enough water move through it to water the plants correctly.  It all depends on the characteristics of the topsoil but overall potting soil will give you a healthier potted plant. 

You can add a little topsoil to the surface of an established grass or turf to help repair or level an area.  This is not the same process as topdressing though.  Make sure to rake the topsoil in the best you can and only apply a thin layer at a time so that the grass still shows through and can gather sunlight to recover quickly.  This method is best for small areas to repair such as a tree removal, dog paths or digging, and other turf holes. 

Yes, dredging and dewatering of all CCRs including fly ash, bottom ash, boiler slag, and flue gas desulfurization, or scrubber, materials such as synthetic gypsum, can be dredged and disposed of properly. 

Like compost, soil conditioners are best used as an amendment to the soil and not along for planting.  The high organic matter content works best when combined with topsoil or native soil.