In communities across New Jersey, natural grass playing fields are being replaced by artificial turf. The new facilities are sleek, modern and often points of pride for local officials, but they aren’t always universally praised.

That’s the case in Scotch Plains, where resistance is growing to a plan to replace natural grass in Brookside Park with artificial turf. Opponents say they are worried about the safety of kids and adults playing on turf, as well harmful environmental impacts the turf may have.