Certified Mulch

Don’t Forget This to Keep Lapeer County Playgrounds Safe

Ed Johnson, Mulch Delivery Coordinator | Aug 26, 2025

Tags: Certified Playground Mulch

Supporting image for blog post: Don’t Forget This to Keep Lapeer County Playgrounds Safe

Certified playground mulch spread under a swing set. | Owen Tree Service

Certified Playground Mulch plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety of children in Lapeer County's playgrounds. As we enter 2025 school year, it's important to understand why this specialized mulch is essential for creating safe play environments throughout our community.

What is Certified Playground Mulch?

Certified Playground Mulch is a specific type of ground cover designed to meet stringent safety standards for fall zones around playground equipment. Unlike regular landscaping mulch, this specialized mulch undergoes rigorous testing for its shock-absorbing properties, ensuring it can effectively cushion falls and reduce the risk of injury.

Safety Benefits

The primary reason for using Certified Playground Mulch is child safety. Playground accidents can result in serious injuries, including broken bones and concussions. Certified mulch significantly reduces the impact force during a fall, providing a crucial layer of protection for children at play. In Lapeer County, where outdoor activities are an integral part of local life, this added safety measure is particularly important. Our public parks, schools, and recreation centers see frequent use by children, making it all that more important to have proper safety measures in place.

Compliance with Regulations

Municipalities and schools in Lapeer County must adhere to safety regulations set by state and federal agencies. The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) follows national guidelines to ensure playground safety. By using certified mulch, our playgrounds remain compliant with these safety standards, avoiding potential fines or legal issues.

Durability and Low Maintenance

Certified Playground Mulch is designed to last, often made from recycled wood or other sustainable materials. Unlike traditional mulch, which decomposes or shifts easily, certified mulch stays in place and retains its shock-absorbing qualities over time. This durability is especially important in Lapeer County, where our harsh winters expose playground surfaces to snow, ice, and rain.

Environmental Benefits

Many Certified Playground Mulch options, such as those offered by local suppliers, are made from recycled wood materials. This eco-friendly approach aligns with Lapeer County's commitment to sustainability, reducing the need for new timber to be cut down and minimizing environmental impact.

Accessibility

Ensuring that playgrounds are accessible to children of all abilities is crucial for our community. Certified Playground Mulch not only meets safety standards but also provides a smoother surface, which can be easier for children with mobility challenges to navigate.

Proper Installation and Maintenance

While Certified Playground Mulch offers numerous benefits, proper installation and maintenance are key to maximizing its safety features. The Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends at least twelve inches of Certified Playground Mulch underneath playground equipment. Regular inspections and topping up of the mulch are necessary to maintain safe depths for impact absorption.

As we prioritize the safety of our children in Lapeer County, Certified Playground Mulch stands out as an essential component of safe play environments. Its shock-absorbing properties, durability, and compliance with safety standards make it an ideal choice for our community's playgrounds. By investing in certified playground mulch, we're not just creating safer play spaces; we're investing in the well-being and enjoyment of our children for years to come.

If you need Certified Playground Mulch for your playground contact Owen Tree and Lawn Care at 800-724-6680.

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