After being closed last summer due to high methane levels, the playing fields between Foothills Centennial Centre and Foothills Composite High School are now safe for use again.

Testing is performed on a regular basis on the fields as they cover a landfill site that was decommissioned in the '80s.

Through further testing the fields and Howard Park playground have been deemed safe for public use again.

One area that needs further work will be fenced off and remain closed to the public for the summer. 

The Foothills School Division will also be adding a top soil dressing and new grass seed to the fields.

Drew Chipman, assistant superintendent of FSD, says the safety of their schools and communities is their number one priority.

Ongoing sampling and monitoring of the fields will take place on behalf of the Town of Okotoks.