Field Up-keep
Our club field is new - 75x600+feet of new runway, taxiways, staging area. A LOT of the initial grading was done by club members, but the final grading by the paving contractor.
The 20x260 foot pit area is going in this month, and again, a LOT of the work will be done this week by the club members, including moving shade structure, chairs, tables etc.
All this is done in addition to the dues because its the only way we can afford it, but also to show that the members are participative members. Gives you a good feeling to know you've taken part in a major project.
We debated a grass field - it was definetly cheaper, but the experienced club members agreed that it would never be maintained well over the long haul unless someone was paid to do it. Plus there was an issue about water (we're in the desert).
If and when we do a grass field, those that want it bad enough will probably wind up doing the work on it to include grading, irrigation, seeding, fertilizing and mowing it. With those requirements, few will want it.
Woodland Hills credits "working" members up to 1/2 of their dues for participation in mall shows, field work, etc. and I think that's a great idea, especially for kids and fixed-income people.