Union County Little League Field Renovation Project 2026
Project Title
Restoring Play: Renovation of the Boise Cascade Little League Fields in Elgin, Oregon
Project Summary
Union County Little League (UCLL) is requesting funding support to renovate the Boise Cascade Little League fields located in Elgin, Oregon. These fields have long served as a vital recreational space for our community’s youth, providing opportunities for physical activity, sportsmanship, and personal development. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, maintenance of these fields significantly declined due to safety restrictions and a reduced volunteer base. The resulting neglect has led to the rapid spread of Tribulus terrestris—commonly known as “goat heads”—a noxious weed that poses safety hazards to players and has begun to spread throughout the county. Damage sustained to the sprinkler systems without proper field drainage has resulted in standing water along the infields.
Project Details – Field 1 and Field 2 Renovation
Field 1 – Severe Infestation and Full Soil Replacement
Field 1 (Majors Softball) has been overtaken by a widespread infestation of goat heads (Tribulus terrestris), rendering it unsafe for athletic use. To eliminate the noxious weed and its extensive seed pods, a complete removal of the topsoil is necessary, followed by replacement with clean, weed-free soil. This process will involve:
Removal of approximately 4-6 inches of contaminated topsoil
Safe transportation and disposal of removed material
Importing and leveling new soil
Application of pre-emergent herbicide (if appropriate)
Backstop replacement
Leveling the outfield
Installation of new pitching mound, home plate, and bases.
Restoration and painting of existing dugouts.
Field 2 – Partial Contamination and Field Dimension Corrections:
Field 2 (Minors Softball) has also begun to show signs of goat head infestation, though not as extensively as Field 1. To prevent the weed from taking further hold, a minimum of 2 inches of topsoil will need to be removed and replaced across affected areas.
In addition to weed removal, Field 2 also requires critical upgrades to meet regulation softball field standards, including:
Infield extension to ensure appropriate play dimensions
Realignment of home plate and second base for proper field geometry
Grading and leveling of infield dirt
Installation of base anchors at correct distances
Fresh topdressing and seeding where necessary
Restoration and painting of existing dugouts
These improvements are necessary not only for the safety and playability of the field but also to ensure compliance with league regulations and allow local youth teams to compete fairly and confidently on their home turf.
Project Details – Baseball Fields Drainage and Multi-Purpose Conversion
Drainage and Water Damage Issues:
The two existing baseball fields have sustained extensive water damage due to poor drainage and improper water runoff control. Standing water has become a recurring issue, especially during spring and early summer, resulting in frequent cancellations, uneven playing surfaces, and unsafe conditions for young athletes.
To preserve these fields and ensure consistent use throughout the season, UCLL proposes the installation of a proper sub-surface drainage system. This system will:
Direct excess water away from the playing surface
Prevent erosion and soil saturation
Improve turf health and longevity
Enable earlier season play and faster recovery after rain events
Conversion to Multi-Purpose Fields:
In an effort to make the best use of available space and simplify ongoing maintenance, UCLL has decided to convert the two baseball fields into multi-purpose fields that can accommodate both baseball and softball. This will maximize field availability and scheduling flexibility for all age groups and leagues.
As part of this conversion, UCLL plans to purchase and install two removable pitching mounds, allowing the fields to be adapted for either sport. These portable mounds are regulation-compliant and provide a practical, long-term solution for dual-purpose use.
This investment will:
Expand access to field time for both baseball and softball teams
Simplify field management and scheduling for volunteers and league organizers
Increase the value and versatility of the facility for community use
Importance of Project
Throughout the last several years Little League registration numbers have significantly decreased. Union County Little League strives to provide a safe environment for youth to play the Baseball and Softball, while learning valuable life lessons. Without new fields, Little League programs will continue to suffer, and we will see a significant decline in Baseball and Softball Programs throught the entire county. UCLL Board members are all volunteers. We do this for the love of the game, and to build programs the youth of county. Any donation big or small makes a significant impact on our small league.
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