HomeMy WebLinkAboutPK PACKET 09122022CITY OF SAINT ANTHONY VILLAGE
PARKS AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION MEETING
AGENDA
Monday, September 12 ,2022 at 7:00 PM
Join Meeting via Zoom
There is also a dial -in option available. Members of the public who wish to attend the
meeting may do so in person.
Call To Order
Roll Call
Approval Of Agenda
Approval Of Minutes
Approval Of PK Meeting Minutes
PK 06 -06 -2022.PDF
Presentations
Citizens For Sustainability Updates
Dan Kunitz presenting.
PRESENTATION.PDF
St. Anthony Garden Club Collaboration Project Update
Lona Doolan presenting.
PRESENTATION.PDF
Commission Reports
Hennepin County Zero Waste Planning Process
Lona Doolan presenting.
PRESENTATION.PDF
Staff Reports
Public Works Updates
Jeremy Gumke, Public Works Director, presenting.
Waste Hauler RFP Update
Nicole Miller, Assistant to the City Manager, presenting.
Other Business
Dog Park Feasibility
Jeremy Gumke, Public Works Director, presenting.
COVER MEMO.PDF
RECOMMENDATIONS AND GUIDELINES FOR DOG PARK SITE
SELECTION UPDATED 4 -10 -....PDF
Community Forum
Individuals may address the Parks Commission about any City business item not
included on the regular agenda. Speakers are requested to come to the podium, sign
their name and address on the form at the podium, state their name and address for the
Clerk ’s record, and limit their remarks to five minutes. Generally, the Park Commission
will not take official action on items discussed at this time, but may typically refer the
matter to staff for a future report or direct the matter to be scheduled on an upcoming
agenda.
Adjournment
Next Meeting
December 5th
If you would like to request special accommodations or alternative formats, please contact the City
Clerk at 612 -782 -3313 or email city@savmn.com . People who are deaf or hard of hearing can
contact us by using 711 Relay.
Our Mission is to be a progressive and welcoming Village that is walkable,
sustainable and safe.
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Documents:
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CITY OF SAINT ANTHONY VILLAGEPARKS AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION MEETING AGENDAMonday, September 12 ,2022 at 7:00 PMJoin Meeting via ZoomThere is also a dial -in option available. Members of the public who wish to attend the meeting may do so in person. Call To OrderRoll CallApproval Of AgendaApproval Of MinutesApproval Of PK Meeting MinutesPK 06 -06 -2022.PDFPresentationsCitizens For Sustainability UpdatesDan Kunitz presenting.PRESENTATION.PDFSt. Anthony Garden Club Collaboration Project UpdateLona Doolan presenting.
PRESENTATION.PDF
Commission Reports
Hennepin County Zero Waste Planning Process
Lona Doolan presenting.
PRESENTATION.PDF
Staff Reports
Public Works Updates
Jeremy Gumke, Public Works Director, presenting.
Waste Hauler RFP Update
Nicole Miller, Assistant to the City Manager, presenting.
Other Business
Dog Park Feasibility
Jeremy Gumke, Public Works Director, presenting.
COVER MEMO.PDF
RECOMMENDATIONS AND GUIDELINES FOR DOG PARK SITE
SELECTION UPDATED 4 -10 -....PDF
Community Forum
Individuals may address the Parks Commission about any City business item not
included on the regular agenda. Speakers are requested to come to the podium, sign
their name and address on the form at the podium, state their name and address for the
Clerk ’s record, and limit their remarks to five minutes. Generally, the Park Commission
will not take official action on items discussed at this time, but may typically refer the
matter to staff for a future report or direct the matter to be scheduled on an upcoming
agenda.
Adjournment
Next Meeting
December 5th
If you would like to request special accommodations or alternative formats, please contact the City
Clerk at 612 -782 -3313 or email city@savmn.com . People who are deaf or hard of hearing can
contact us by using 711 Relay.
Our Mission is to be a progressive and welcoming Village that is walkable,
sustainable and safe.
I.II.III.IV.A.Documents:V.A.Documents:B.
Documents:
VI.
A.
Documents:
VII.
A.
B.
VIII.
A.
Documents:
IX.
X.
A.
1 CITY OF ST. ANTHONY
2 PARKS AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION MEETING
3 June 6, 2022
4 7:00 p.m.
5
I.6 CALL TO ORDER.
7
8 Vice Chair Reed called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
9
II.10 ROLL CALL.
11
12 Commissioners Present:Vice Chair Reed, Commissioners Bordeau, Guest, and Godmare.
13
14 Absent:Chair Niemi.
15
16 Also Present: Student Liaison Henry Grooms, City Manager Charlie Yunker,
17 Silverwood Park Supervisor Alyssa Baguss, Citizens for
18 Sustainability Commission Representative Lona Doolan, and Public
19 Works Director Jeremy Gumke.
20
21 III.APPROVAL OF THE JUNE 6, 2022 PARKS AND ENVIRONMENTAL
22 COMMISSION MEETING AGENDA.
23
24 Motion by Commissioner Guest, seconded by Commissioner Bordeau, to approve the June 6,
25 2022 Parks and Environmental Commission agenda.
26
27 Motion carried unanimously.
28
29 IV.APPROVAL OF THE MARCH 7, 2022 REGULAR PARKS AND ENVIRONMENTAL
30 COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES.
31
32 Vice Chair Reed noted on page 2, line 25, of the March 7, 2022 minutes she would like to add
33 the sentence: “The purpose of the Green Team is to promote sustainability on campus and in
34 our community”. Vice Chair Reed also noted on page 4, line 4, the following should be added:
35 “Commissioner Bordeau stated Ramsey County owns the fence and it would be very
36 expensive to add a second door”.
37
38 Motion by Commissioner Guest, seconded by Commissioner Bordeau, to approve March 7,
39 2022 Regular Parks and Environmental Commission Meeting Minutes as revised.
40
41 Motion carried unanimously.
42
43 V.PRESENTATIONS.
44
A.45 Silverwood Park Updates.
46
47 Ms. Alyssa Baguss presented a Power Point review of Silverwood Park. She noted Summer
48 Concerts will be held every Wednesday 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. from June 15 through August 24,
49 2022. The schedule was distributed to the Commissioners. More information is available on
Parks and Environmental Commission Regular Meeting Minutes
June 6, 2022
Page 2
1 www.silverwoodonstage.org. Ms. Baguss showed photographs of the outdoor sculpture
2 “Encountering the Subtle Threshold” by Erin Paradis that can be viewed daily from 5:00 a.m.
3 – 10:00 p.m. Photographs of the gallery exhibitions were also provided for Commission
4 review. The exhibition will be open on Thursday.
5
6 Ms. Baguss indicated new art and nature programs are added to the calendar each month for
7 youth, families and adults. More information can be found on these programs at
8 www.threeriversparks.org/programs.
9
10 There are 74 events remaining on the 2022 schedule with 23 events already held. The goal for
11 number of events is 112.
12
13 There will be a Float – In Movie Theater on Saturday, July 16 and will be free and feature a
14 family-friendly film. The next Rental Open House will be held June 6 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. For
15 up-to-date calendars and rental information contact wilverwoodevents@threeriversparks.org.
16 The open houses are held the first Monday of each month.
17
18 The Silverwood Park Café’s new food menu will be available June 1st 9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
19 and will include local and organic coffee drinks, kombucha on tap and baked goods. A
20 student discount is offered weekdays from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. at 50% off. The Perch Mug Club
21 offers discounts on small beverages with the purchase of a mug.
22
23 Ms. Baguss stated the Silverwood Park Visitor Center summer hours are 9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
24 with boat rentals from noon – 6:00 p.m. on weekends and holidays. The park is open from
25 5:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
26
27 The shoreline stabilization project was reviewed and is currently in-progress. The island was
28 finished up this week. This project has been in the works for 3.5 – 4 years. She showed a map
29 indicating the area and also a photograph. The Junior Naturalist Activity Book was reviewed
30 and is available at all three parks. There are two versions in English and Spanish.
31
32 Vice Chair Reed asked if the owls are out and Ms. Baguss stated there is a pair of Great
33 Horned Owls that nest in the park each year. There is a year long focus on birds in the park.
34
B.35 Citizens for Sustainability Commission Updates.
36
37 Ms. Lona Doolan presented a Power Point showing the agenda. In March a Pollinator Garden
38 Design Workshop was held with 28 attending. For slides and handouts from the workshop go
39 to citizensforsustainability.org. A chart showing the “Power Plants” which provide
40 exceptional forage for a wide variety of pollinators. Those that assisted were thanked.
41
42 Ms. Doolan noted in April the Earth Day Cleanup was held. She thanked those that
43 collaborated for the event. Ms. Doolan thanked those that collaborated for the event.
44
Parks and Environmental Commission Regular Meeting Minutes
June 6, 2022
Page 3
1 In May a Safe Riding and Green Driving Event was held and those who collaborated were
2 also thanked. There was an opportunity to test drive an EV or ask an EV Owner questions.
3 Also there was an e-bike test ride. Those that collaborated were thanked.
4
5 In May there was an effort to promote No Mow May. Delaying mowing helps pollinators
6 survive the crucial period when they are coming out of hibernation. Ms. Doolan requested the
7 Commission integrate “No Mow May” in the 2023 PEC workplan to support a growing
8 interest.
9
10 In June, in recognition of the growing number of environmentally - conscious students in St.
11 Anthony schools, Citizens for Sustainability has awarded two $500 Environmental
12 Stewardship Scholarships.
13
14 Ms. Doolan reviewed opportunities to increase composting. Organic waste in landfills
15 generates methane, a greenhouse gas that is 5 times as potent as CO2. Hennepin County offers
16 grants to non-profits and businesses to implement composting. Opportunities to increase
17 composting are to offer compost buckets at VillageFest, offer compostable kits for National
18 Night Out, and outreach to multi-family residential facilities to have a significant impact on
19 St. Anthony’s emission reduction targets. The Citizens for Sustainability will be available
20 during VillageFest.
21
22 Ms. Doolan stated she attended a Council Meeting to invite residents to participate in No
23 Mow May and for the Council to not cite residents who do not mow in May. Mr. Yunker
24 stated the City does not fine residents for not mowing. Commissioner Godmare stated some
25 residents may have been threatened with receiving a fine.
26
27 Commissioner Guest asked if a motion could be made and Mr. Yunker suggested No Mow
28 May be part of the Commission’s work-plan. Vice Chair Reed stated she will make a note to
29 make sure it is added to the work-plan for 2023.
30
31 Ms. Doolan suggested the Commission refer to the New Brighton No Mow May program.
32 There was a discussion on signs for reminders/education.
33
34 Commissioner Guest asked if for National Night Out were there funds available to offer
35 compostable plates and silverware.
36
37 Commissioner Bordeau suggested publishing a list of BPI certified materials suggested for
38 use. There is a list on the Ramsey County website.
39
40 Commissioner Bordeau asked if the City rents out holders for big organic bags for parties and
41 events. Ms. Doolan stated those can be obtained from Hennepin County.
42
43 Commissioner Bordeau asked if the grants Ms. Doolan referred to are for businesses and non-
44 profits. Ms. Doolan stated there are recycling and composting grants. Commissioner Bordeau
45 stated the Hennepin County program is called BIZRecycling. Commissioner Bordeau asked if
46 trash goes to landfills in Hennepin County. Ms. Doolan stated the trash on her side of town
Parks and Environmental Commission Regular Meeting Minutes
June 6, 2022
Page 4
1 goes to the incinerator. Commissioner Bordeau noted Ramsey County trash goes to the CERC
2 and they are coming out with a curbside program in 2023. She asked how the City would
3 participate in that program. Mr. Yunker stated the City is going out for bid for trash hauler
4 contract that would begin in mid-2023. He noted it will be included in the RFP. Commissioner
5 Bordeau asked how the residents in Hennepin County could participate in the program. Mr.
6 Yunker stated the City Council is looking for a single hauler RFP.
7
8 VI.COMMISSION REPORTS.
9
10 Vice Chair Reed asked about the Teacher Workshop on how the solar panels are working and
11 Ms. Doolan stated that has been done. The information was to be sent to Jeremy for uploading
12 on the City website. Ms. Doolan stated it was recorded as a Zoom Call. (the remainder of her
13 comments were inaudible). From the last meeting, Commissioner Guest asked what 8 aerial
14 acres is what percentage of the City. He asked what percentage of the City is covered in tree
15 canopy. Mr. Gumke will follow-up. Vice Chair Reed stated she had asked if there was a
16 bulletin board where organics information could be posted. City Manager Yunker stated it is
17 put in the newsletter if the information is available.
18
19 Commissioner Bordeau stated she attended the Zero Waste session presented by Hennepin
20 County along with other Commissioners and Council Members. It was very high-level. It was
21 one step in the process of putting together a plan.
22
23 VII.OTHER BUSINESS.
24
A.25 Parks Assessment.
26
27 Public Works Director Jeremy Gumke presented City Staff annually updates and refines the
28 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) that encompasses the equipment, buildings and park
29 amenities throughout the City. This plan helps ensure that these items are replaced when
30 appropriate, and that adequate funding is available when those replacements are needed.
31
32 It has been a number of years since the parks amenities were reviewed system-wide and staff
33 engaged the City’s engineering firm WSB to conduct an assessment of the park amenities
34 condition and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance to further refine the CIP
35 and provide a basis of discussion for any changes in amenities to recommend to the City
36 Council.
37
38 From staff discussion with WSB staff, the overall status of the parks is that they are
39 maintained effectively, but are aging and ADA standards have changed since the amenities
40 were installed. WSB listed recommendations for replacements in short term and long term
41 categories, and brief observational comments. Staff will be completing most of the short term
42 items in the coming months, such as re-striping for accessible parking, purchasing accessible
43 picnic tables and any deferred maintenance.
44
45 Long term items such as playground equipment and trails will need to be planned for
46 completion when funding becomes available. Replacements will be scheduled based on their
47
Parks and Environmental Commission Regular Meeting Minutes
June 6, 2022
Page 5
1 age and current condition as first priority and will start with the playground equipment at
2 Silver Point Park, as that playground is in the greatest need of replacement as soon as
3 possible.
4
5 This also presents an opportunity for discussion on what equipment features and amenities are
6 desired for when those replacements can be scheduled for completion.
7
8 Mr. Gumke provided a report covering Silver Point Park, Water Tower Park, Central Park,
9 Emerald Park and the tennis court on Silver Lane. Trillium Park and Salo Park were not
10 included as Trillium Park functions primarily as an “entrance node” and Salo Park’s condition
11 was evaluated in 2021 as part of the new maintenance agreement, and the known deferred
12 maintenance is underway as part of that agreement. A summary of recommendations, both
13 Short Term and Long Term, were presented to the Commission.
14
15 The following discussion items were posed for Commission feedback:
16 Does the Commission have any additional thoughts or observations for staff to
17 integrated into the CIP?
18 Does the Commission have any thoughts on changes to the current amenities in any of
19 the parks to recommend to the City Council?
20 Any other considerations for staff?
21
22 Commissioner Bordeau asked what the time frame is for short term vs. long term. Mr. Gumke
23 stated if it is long term it would need to be included in the CIP. Short term would be one year.
24
25 Vice Chair Reed stated she has spoken with residents at Silver Point Park. She received some
26 feedback that Silver Point was the only park without a swing.
27
28 Commissioner Bordeau asked how we did compared to other Cities parks. Mr. Yunker stated
29 if someone reports 100% value that would have been constructed yesterday. She likes the idea
30 of looking at different play structures.
31
32 Commissioner Guest asked what would be needed to bring the playground surfaces to ADA
33 standards. Mr. Gumke stated he received an estimate for rubber tile surface at Silver Point
34 Park in replace of the pea gravel. Wood Fiber Mulch would be an option but the rubber tile
35 would be preferred.
36
37 Commissioner Bordeau asked if the pickle ball courts would be in the tennis courts and Mr.
38 Gumke stated it would be looked at to be in the hockey rink.
39
40 Vice Chair Reed stated WSB mentioned moving the pickle ball courts but did they have a
41 recommendation. Mr. Gumke stated the infrastructure is in Central Park to support pickle ball
42 courts.
43
44 Commissioner Bordeau asked about a dog park. Vice Chair Reed stated that is talked about
45 every year. Mr. Yunker stated experts recommend a 2-acre space with artificial turf.
46 Maintenance and water is needed on the site. Staff will be researching.
Parks and Environmental Commission Regular Meeting Minutes
June 6, 2022
Page 6
1
2 Commissioner Guest stated there is a 30% increase in dogs due to COVID. It is recommended
3 for a dog park to separate large dogs from small dogs.
4
5 Vice Chair Reed referred to Emerald Park and spoke to some residents who expressed they
6 liked the versatility. Some feedback was the bushes near a home have a lot of weeds. They
7 suggested mulch be brought in and placed under the bushes. One child indicated there should
8 be more signs for throwing trash in trashcans. Vice Chair Reed stated a lot of balloons were
9 picked up in the grass. One other child mentioned the City taking down the COVID sign as he
10 doesn’t want to be reminded of COVID in the park. One of the discussions during the
11 planning session, was the City-owned parcel located at 39th Avenue and Stinson, and what
12 was to be done with that parcel. One of the suggestions was that would be a good place for a
13 neighborhood park. She asked that this be put on a future agenda.
14
15 Mr. Gumke stated the approximate age of the playground equipment at each park.
16
17 Commissioner Guest stated he heard a rumor the City will be doing a community survey. Mr.
18 Yunker stated that is true and the survey will create a benchmark for parks. Student Liaison
19 Grooms ask how many residents are surveyed and Mr. Yunker stated they want at least 400
20 responses. This survey should be done in Fall of 2022.
21
22 Mr. Gumke noted staff will utilize the WSB report and Commission feedback to refine the
23 2023 CIP and will bring details of that to the September 2022 Commission meeting.
24
B.25 Pollinator Design Workshop and Follow-up.
26
27 Vice Chair Reed provided a letter to the Commission thanking them for their participation and
28 help in making the Pollinator Garden Design Workshop a success. The PPT deck and
29 handouts are available on https://citizensforsustainability.org/pollinator-gardens/. She noted
30 there are two community groups for those who might want to connect and work with other
31 gardeners. All are welcome to join. St. Anthony Village Gardeners Contact –
32 anita.davis19@gmail.com and Friends of the Parks Contact –
33 https://www.facebook.com/friends-of-the-parks-st-anthony-village-mn-115119483205964/.
34
C.35 Neighbors Sale Days.
36
37 Vice Chair Reed reviewed the Neighbors Sale Days will be held June 17 and June 18 from
38 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. with a rain date being June 19. Sale Days are open to Northeast
39 neighborhoods in Columbia Heights, Hilltop and St. Anthony Village. Sales can be registered
40 and will be advertised in the Northeaster for $10. This is the first year St. Anthony Village is
41 included.
42
43 VIII.COMMUNITY FORUM.
44
45 No one appeared to address the Commission.
46
Parks and Environmental Commission Regular Meeting Minutes
June 6, 2022
Page 7
1 Vice Chair Reed noted she is resigning from the Commission and this will be her last meeting.
2
3 IX. ADJOURNMENT.
4
5 Motion by Commissioner Guest, seconded by Commissioner Godmare, to adjourn the June 6,
6 2022 meeting of the Parks and Environmental Commission at 8:15 p.m.
7
8 Motion carried unanimously.
9
10
11 Respectfully submitted,
12 Debbie Wolfe
13 TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.
9/6/2022
1
Citizens for
Sustainability
Parks &
Environmental
Commission Update
September 12, 2022
Citizens working to create a resilient and sustainable community
1. VillageFest Parade
2. Citizens Science
• Wetland Health Evaluation
• Pollinator Count
3. Creating Habitat
• St. Anthony Pollinator Gardens
• Stillwater Pollinator Gardens
• Silverwood / Wilshire Park Buckthorn Removal
4. Focus for this Fall
Agenda
2
9/6/2022
2
VillageFest Parade
Promoted Electric Vehicles
People are interested in:
•learning about available models
•incentives and affordability
•expanding charging networks
3
Wetland Health Evaluation Program
Annual Hennepin County evaluation of targeted wetlands
Wetlands are shrinking throughout the metro Grass Lake, Minneapolis
4
9/6/2022
3
Pollinator Count in Stillwater
Annual pollinator count organized by Pollinator Friendly Alliance
Extended heat and drought are reducing the
number of pollinators we expected to see
Pine Point Park, Stillwater
5
6
•Helped plant pollinator garden at St. Anthony City Hall
•Helped refresh Butterfly gardens in Stillwater
•Removed Buckthorn at Silverwood Park and Wilshire Park
Creating Habitat
StillwaterSt. Anthony Village
9/6/2022
4
Our Focus This Fall
7
1. Continue to Create Habitat
•Help girl scout troop with new pollinator garden
•Refresh plantings in the courtyard at Wilshire Park
•Refresh plantings at Middle School
•Plant trees at Nativity (Tree Canopy grant)
2. CFS goal planning for 2023
3. Advocate for climate action in 2023 SAV Goals
Our Request for Climate Action in 2023 Goals
8
1. Expand solar installation on Central Park pavilion rooftop
2. Take up efforts to reduce waste
•Expand organics
•Explore single‐use bans
•Promote grants within business communities
3. Prioritize public charging station in public space
4. Initiate outreach to promote energy and water reduction
5. Start a community‐based effort to develop a bike/ped plan
9/6/2022
5
Questions?
9
9/12/2022
1
A Village
Collaboration
to refresh
City Hall gardens
St. Anthony Village
Garden Club worked with
City Staff to create a
design and order plants
9/12/2022
2
and delivered the
mulch and plants
Public Works cleared
the area, put down a
weed suppressant mat,
Village Gardeners drilled
the holes and placed the
plants
9/12/2022
3
We are grateful to
all our friends who
helped us plant!
We planted over
250 plants in 4 days
9/12/2022
4
CS Pre‐school keeps the
flowerpots watered
St. Anthony Garden Club
keeps the gardens weeded
SUMMER
Name
Butterfly
Milkweed
Coneflower
Prairie
Clover
Vervain
FALL
Name
Aster
Black‐eyed
Susan
Blazing
Star
Coreopsis
SPRING
Name
Penstemon
Prairie
Smoke
Pussy Toes
Gaillardia
Flowers to Watch For
9/12/2022
5
Consider Joining the Garden Club
Contact:
Anita Davis at anita.davis19@gmail.com
Lona Doolan at lona.doolan@savmn.com
9/6/2022
1
Hennepin County Zero Waste Planning Process
Six Model Cities Studied
9/6/2022
2
Seven Themes
Preliminary Results: Top Priorities Across Groups
9/6/2022
3
Preliminary Results: Top Priorities in Policy
Next Steps
MEMORANDUM
To:City of Saint Anthony Village Parks & Environmental Commission
From:Jeremy Gumke, Public Works Director and Charlie Yunker, City Manager
Date:September 12, 2022 Parks & Environmental Commission Meeting
Request:Discussion on Dog Park Feasibility
BACKGROUND
At its annual Goal Setting session, the City Council identified an Action Step for staff in 2022, to explore the
feasibility of adding a dog park in St. Anthony.
Staff researched the best practices is dog park design in order to identify possible location(s) for a dog park
somewhere in the City. Attached to this memo is a report from the City of Ann Arbor, MI on ‘Recommendations
and Guidelines for Dog Park Site Selection, Design, Operations and Maintenance’, which summarized optimal
dog park design guidelines.
Staff is presenting the initial information gathered for the Commission’s input and any ideas on alternatives the
staff have not considered. The input will be conveyed to the City Council for their consideration.
This commission in 2014 reviewed the topic of a dog park, and the focus was the ice rink in Central Park for a
dual-use. After hearing from an official from the Minneapolis Park Board at the time, it was determined that:
“The commission consensus after her presentation was that this project would be a real challenge for
the following reasons:
•Area chosen not large enough for Dog Park.
•The need for a different type of surface other than grass (wood chips are the best surface).
•Fencing around the rink would need to be upgraded.
•Potential noise problems for nearby residents.
•It is necessary regardless of the size and layout, separation between large and small dog is
absolutely necessary (reduces dog fights).”
FINDINGS
The attached report (and other sources reviewed by staff that were not included) summarized best practices for
placement on Page 6-7. Staff focused on this section for evaluating potential sites for a dog park before
considering other aspects such as design or management. Key components are listed below:
Size: The recommended minimum size for dog parks varies considerably among cities, but is generally
between ½ acre and one acre.
Buffer from Residential: A few cities provide definitive distances from residences, varying from 50 feet
to 200 feet. All strive to minimize conflicts and include guidelines such as: making sure that noise and
activity levels are no more than other park uses, importance of screening or visual buffers, and having a
minimal impact on residences.
Parking: Recommendations include that parking should be readily accessible, close to the site,
sufficient/adequate size, and convenient. There were no standards for size; rather it is important to
consider parking when locating a dog park.
Use Conflict Avoidance: Guidelines include avoiding play areas and other recreational amenities, high
use areas, natural areas and water sources, wildlife, trails, community gardens, and historic sites.
Staff reviewed the City’s parks layout and usage and other city-owned property, and was unable to identify an
appropriate location that would meet all or most of the key criteria above. So in order to add a dog park current
usage and/or amenities would need to be eliminated. As a result, staff‘s opinion is integrating a dog park into
the park system is not feasible at this time.
NEAREST DOG PARKS
The City’s website list a handful of dog parks within a reasonable distance; the closest being the St. Anthony
Parkway Off-Leash Dog Park about 2.5 miles from the City, located at 700 St. Anthony Parkway Minneapolis, MN
55418. Also, Silverwood Park within St. Anthony includes a one-mile dog trail that is maintained year-round.
DISCUSSION ITEMS FOR COMMISSION FEEDBACK
Below are the specific items for discussion and feedback for staff:
Does the Commission have any additional thoughts or observations?
Other considerations for staff?
NEXT STEPS
Input will be conveyed to the City Council for their consideration.
ATTACHMENTS:
Ann Arbor Report
Recommendations and
Guidelines for Dog Park
Site Selection, Design,
Operations and
Maintenance
2013/2014 Park Advisory Commission Dog Park Subcommittee
MISSION STATEMENT
To create formal guidelines regarding the placement and management of new
dog parks and the improvement of existing dog parks in Ann Arbor.
Recommendations and Guidelines for Dog Park Site Selection, Design, Operations and Maintenance
Page 1
Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................... 2
BACKGROUND AND HISTORY ........................................................................................................ 2
A Brief History ......................................................................................................................................................... 2
Establishment of Dog Parks in Ann Arbor .......................................................................................................... 2
Assessing the Desire for Additional Dog Parks ................................................................................................. 3
GOALS AND OBJECTIVES ................................................................................................................ 3
Goal 1 – Evaluate Community Preferences around Existing and Potential Future Dog Parks ................ 4
Goal 2 – Research Best Management Practices to Inform Guidelines for Ann Arbor Dog Parks .......... 4
Goal 3 - Provide Guidelines for the Development and Maintenance of New Dog Parks ...................... 4
Goal 4 – Provide Guidelines for the Ongoing Operation and Improvement of Existing Dog Parks .... 4
RESEARCH AND FINDINGS ............................................................................................................. 5
Evaluate Community Preferences around Existing and Potential Future Dog Parks (Goal 1) ................. 5
Public Input Methods .............................................................................................................................................. 5
Summary of Survey Responses.......................................................................................................................... 5
Summary of Input from Public Meetings .......................................................................................................... 6
Summary of Placement, Design and Management Practices from Other Cities (Goal 2) ........................ 6
Placement .............................................................................................................................................................. 6
Design .................................................................................................................................................................... 7
Management ........................................................................................................................................................ 7
DOG PARK GUIDELINES FOR ANN ARBOR .................................................................................... 8
Guidelines for Development and Maintenance of New Dog Parks (Goal 3) ............................................ 8
Guidelines for Placement of New Dog Parks ................................................................................................ 8
Guidelines for Design of New Dog Parks ....................................................................................................... 9
Guidelines for Management and Enforcement of Dog Parks ................................................................... 10
Process to Establish New Dog Park Sites ...................................................................................................... 10
Guidelines for Improvements to Existing Dog Parks (Goal 4) ..................................................................... 11
Inventory of Existing Dog Parks ...................................................................................................................... 12
Suggestions for Improvements to Existing Dog Parks ................................................................................. 13
APPENDICES .................................................................................................................................. 13
Appendix 1: Community Questionnaire ........................................................................................................... 13
Appendix 2: Website Page ............................................................................................................................... 20
Appendix 3: Public Meetings ............................................................................................................................. 21
Appendix 4: Research from Other Communities ............................................................................................ 26
Appendix 5: Charts Summarizing Data from Other Cities ........................................................................... 28
Appendix 6: Existing Dog Park Rules ............................................................................................................... 29
Appendix 7: Scoring Sheet for Placement Criteria ....................................................................................... 30
Recommendations and Guidelines for Dog Park Site Selection, Design, Operations and Maintenance
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INTRODUCTION
Dog parks have grown in popularity throughout the country as more people have pets and are asking that
communities provide recreational opportunities for them. The City of Ann Arbor is no exception. This planning
document has been developed in response to resident advocacy for additional dog parks and to assure that,
moving forward, the existing and proposed dog park areas are successful and well received.
The City of Ann Arbor currently has 158 parks covering 2,118 acres. Two of these parks contain fenced off-
leash dog run areas, known as dog parks. These include 10-acre Swift Run Park and .7-acre Olson Park.
These parks are located at the extreme south and north of the City, and residents have requested that new
dog park areas be more accessible to their residence. This document provides historical information on the
background leading up to the development of the existing dog parks, information about the existing dog
parks in the City, data about dog parks in other cities, guidelines for the location and design of any new off-
leash dog parks, and guidelines for how to improve existing dog parks. In addition, details are provided
about the process that the City’s dog park subcommittee went through to establish these guidelines.
BACKGROUND AND HISTORY
A Brief History
Public advocacy to establish dog parks dates to the mid 1990’s. To address these requests, in 1997, a Dog
Off-Leash Taskforce was formed as recommended by staff and the Park Advisory Commission with the goal
of gathering and reviewing information, reporting findings, and making recommendations for the design,
placement, and management of dog parks. The task force met for seven months. Their work included holding
interviews with dog behavioral specialists, and researching materials on dog behaviors and management
from around the country.
The resulting report, (attached as a hyperlink) released in 1998, addressed design criteria, including size,
fencing, gates and entrances, sanitation facilities, water, surfacing, shade, seating, emergency phone, agility
equipment, paths, parking, park maintenance, supervision and monitoring, signs, and hours of operation. It
also provided information about obtaining a permit, dog park rules, costs and funding, enforcement, changing
the City ordinance, and a pilot project. The report was presented to the Park Advisory Commission in
November of 1998.
The effort to establish the first dog park did not move forward until 2005 as there were concerns about
potential management issues, funding, and resistance from residents. However, the concept of an off-leash
dog park continued to gain momentum in the intervening years and advocates continued to lobby to establish
one or more dog parks. In response, the City researched potential locations using the criteria developed in the
1998 report. In 2005, the City started discussions with the Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation
Commission, who were also hearing from constituents that a dog park was a desired amenity, to explore the
joint development of a dog park at Swift Run Park.
Establishment of Dog Parks in Ann Arbor
In June 2007, City Code was amended to provide for dogs to run off-leash in designated dog play areas
(i.e., dog parks). In December 2007, a partnership agreement was signed between the City of Ann Arbor and
the Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission for the development, maintenance, and operation of
Recommendations and Guidelines for Dog Park Site Selection, Design, Operations and Maintenance
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a dog park at Swift Run Park. Swift Run was suggested as a location because of its proximity to the County
maintenance facility, was not near residences, was adequately sized, and was not being used for any other
park purpose.
A second dog park area was established at Olson Park in 2008. This location was adopted after a series of
public meetings, in which alternative locations were discussed, including Ward Park, Leslie Park, and South
Maple Park, but were not supported by adjacent residents or were not compatible with other city functions for
the site at the time. Olson, like Swift Run, is located away from housing. It is part of a larger multi-use park,
and does not conflict with or preclude any other existing park use; however it is much smaller, and primarily
serves residents in the northern part of the City.
Assessing the Desire for Additional Dog Parks
In the past few years, public advocacy for additional dog parks has again risen to the forefront of desired
park amenities. Input from the 2011-2015 Parks and Recreation Open Space Plan also supported the desire
for additional Dog Park areas. This input has been focused on creating additional parks closer to residences,
especially one that is centrally located and walkable from the downtown for residents who do not drive.
In 2012, staff suggested West Park would be worth considering since a master plan had just been completed
and property purchased along Chapin was not being utilized for any specific purpose. A public meeting was
held and there was general support for the concept. However, enough opposition arose that the project was
eventually rejected. A new initiative to explore dog park locations was needed.
In response, a subcommittee of the Park Advisory Commission was formed in 2013. Over the course of 2013-
14, the committee met more than 13 times. These meetings were posted and open to the public, and public
commentary was first and last on every agenda. The committee was tasked with developing a public input
plan and a process for determining appropriate criteria to locate dog parks. The committee looked to
establish criteria and to test these criteria at several park locations to see if the elements were relevant and a
good determinant for a successful location. The committee looked at the parks in the vicinity of the downtown
as a first step. Several potential locations were identified to test the criteria before holding public meetings.
Two public meetings were held to discuss the criteria and other issues surrounding establishment of dog parks.
After considering strong public feedback regarding the process, the committee decided to take a step back to
revisit the existing criteria and develop revised recommendations for locating, designing, and operating a
dog park, before proposing any locations and holding public meetings on specific park areas. A key piece of
these recommendations relates to process, more specifically, ensuring that the public has a chance to be
actively engaged in discussing, reviewing, and commenting on these criteria for locating new dog parks. This
document is the culmination of these discussions and provides the framework for how the City can move
forward with creating and maintaining successful dog parks. However, it is also understood that this is a living
document and will be revisited in the future to consider new initiatives and trends.
GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
To guide the subcommittee’s mission, a series of goals were established. These goals cover the process and
outcomes for creating new dog parks and improving existing ones. The four goals established by the
subcommittee include:
Recommendations and Guidelines for Dog Park Site Selection, Design, Operations and Maintenance
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Goal 1 – Evaluate Community Preferences around Existing and Potential
Future Dog Parks
To meet this goal, the dog park subcommittee utilized a series of tools including: a community-wide survey, a
series of public meetings, targeted outreach to engaged citizens, and discussion during dog park
subcommittee meetings.
Goal 2 – Research Best Management Practices to Inform Guidelines for
Ann Arbor Dog Parks
To meet this goal, the subcommittee contacted communities from around the country, referenced master plans,
and conducted interviews with staff and other community members. From this research, summaries and charts
were developed to compare best practices regarding dog parks. Results can be found in Appendix 4 and
Appendix 5.
Goal 3 - Provide Guidelines for the Development and Maintenance of
New Dog Parks
To meet this goal, the subcommittee set three objectives: 1) To develop criteria for site location; 2) To develop
criteria for site design; 3) To establish a public process for decision making regarding siting new dog parks.
To inform the guidelines, the committee reached out to communities around the country to gather best
management practices, as well as to learn what might be improved with existing dog parks (Goal 2). The
research included email, telephone interviews, website research, and review of master plans from other
communities. The data was then collated into charts to compare criteria that guide development and
maintenance of dog parks (Appendix 4).
The committee also created a community-wide survey to assess citizen needs, interests, desires, and concerns
regarding future and existing dog parks in Ann Arbor. In addition, two public meetings were held with citizens
to review the results of the survey and further discuss issues and opportunities related to new and existing dog
parks in Ann Arbor. The subcommittee reviewed the survey and public meeting input in the creation of this
document. The results from the survey and meetings can be found in Appendix 1 and Appendix 3, respectively.
Goal 4 – Provide Guidelines for the Ongoing Operation and Improvement
of Existing Dog Parks
To meet this goal, the subcommittee inventoried the existing Ann Arbor dog parks, including layout, amenities,
operation, and maintenance practices. Enforcement issues outside of the existing dog parks were also studied.
Input gathered from the survey and public meetings about what is and is not working well at Swift Run and
Olson Parks, and research from other communities, helped the subcommittee to learn about best management
practices. The committee also looked at volunteer and educational opportunities to aid in the management of
future and existing dog parks.
From this information, the subcommittee made recommendations to improve ongoing operation, infrastructure,
and amenities at existing dog parks and to improve enforcement issues surrounding off-leash dogs in parks.
Recommendations and Guidelines for Dog Park Site Selection, Design, Operations and Maintenance
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RESEARCH AND FINDINGS
Evaluate Community Preferences around Existing and Potential Future
Dog Parks (Goal 1)
Research was conducted by asking residents of Ann Arbor to provide input through a number of mechanisms
explored below. Additionally, other cities and regions were interviewed to determine best management
practices for establishing new dog parks and operating existing ones.
Public Input Methods
Several methods were used to obtain public input including a citizen survey, two public meetings, input at task
force meetings, emails, and phone interviews. Each input method provided important information that helped
to inform the criteria for site selection and design, as well as recommendations for improvements to existing
dog parks.
A questionnaire was designed by the Park Advisory Commission subcommittee with public input and
advertised via email, press releases, the City website, and postcards placed at recreation facilities, the City
Hall customer service desk, and other public locations. The questions were designed to gain a better
understanding of the existing dog population, the desire for or concerns against dog parks, whether and how
people use dog parks, and what they like or dislike about them. Questions also addressed dog behaviors,
geographic distribution, and locations where dog parks would or would not be acceptable.
A dog park web page was maintained during the public input period detailing the ways in which residents
could be involved and provide input. The page listed the survey link, public meeting dates, email address,
and Park Advisory Commission subcommittee meeting times and locations. The page is attached in Appendix 2.
Two public meetings were held to obtain input. The meetings included discussion about potential location and
design criteria, maintenance issues with existing dog parks, concerns about creating new parks, potential
locations, and questions about what other communities are doing about dog parks.
Minutes of both meetings and detailed survey results are included in Appendix 3.
Summary of Survey Responses
The survey was completed by over 1,500 people, ranging in age from teens to seniors, and
representing all areas of the City, with the majority being from zip code 48103.
The majority of respondents own dogs and many own more than one dog.
The majority of respondents do not currently use dog parks, but of those who do, more use Swift Run.
Frequency of use ranged from daily use to a few times annually.
The current dog parks were appreciated for their existence, size, fencing, and distance from homes.
The dislikes included ill behaved dogs, fees, lack of shade, and issues with cleanliness.
Respondents indicated that dog park usage would increase as the distance to the home decreased,
with the most popular time for use being late afternoon.
Recommendations and Guidelines for Dog Park Site Selection, Design, Operations and Maintenance
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The most important items mentioned for a successful dog park were cleanliness, maintenance, location,
and shade.
The greatest concerns were cleanliness, dog conflicts, and maintenance.
Many residents were willing to volunteer at a dog park to help clean, landscape, organize events and
activities, and fundraise.
Summary of Input from Public Meetings
Three public meetings were held with 29 people attending the first meeting, 9 people attending the
second meeting, and 17 attending the third meeting.
Important considerations should include buffers between the dog park and other uses, protection of
natural areas and water quality, provision of shade, appropriate surfacing, adequate drainage, and
parking so as not to put additional burden on existing neighborhoods.
Take care of what we have and correct existing issues, including cleanliness, inadequate shade,
condition/maintenance of existing dog parks, and issues with dogs running off-leash.
Location is important, but it is also important to recognize that the City will never be able to provide
dog parks walkable from every residence and land other than parks should be considered.
Research and provide data from other communities to establish best practices when designing and
locating new dog parks and managing existing parks.
Establish an ample and well thought out process for public input.
Summary of Placement, Design and Management Practices from Other
Cities (Goal 2)
Staff and Park Advisory Commission subcommittee members researched development and management
practices from numerous cities, and obtained information via phone conversations, email, websites, master
plans, and policy documents. Cities contacted include: Baltimore, MD; Boulder, CO; Chicago, IL; Kalamazoo,
MI; Madison, WI; Norfolk, VA; Alexandria, VA; Portland, OR; San Francisco, CA; and Meridian Township, MI.
Existing master plans referenced include Denver, CO; Salt Lake County, UT; and Oakland, CA.
Below is a summary of the responses. The data from the research on each city is detailed in Appendix 5.
Placement
Size: The recommended minimum size for dog parks varies considerably among cities, but is generally
between ½ acre and one acre.
Buffer from Residential: A few cities provide definitive distances from residences, varying from 50
feet to 200 feet. All strive to minimize conflicts and include guidelines such as: making sure that noise
and activity levels are no more than other park uses, importance of screening or visual buffers, and
having a minimal impact on residences.
Water Source: Most recommend having a source of drinking water for humans and dogs if possible.
Recommendations and Guidelines for Dog Park Site Selection, Design, Operations and Maintenance
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Parking: Recommendations include that parking should be readily accessible, close to the site,
sufficient/adequate size, and convenient. There were no standards for size; rather it is important to
consider parking when locating a dog park.
Drainage: Important aspects included that the site be relatively flat and have permeable soils.
Shade: All recommend some shade as desirable, but not heavily shaded to allow for grass growth
and for the ground to dry.
Use Conflict Avoidance: Guidelines include avoiding play areas and other recreational amenities,
high use areas, natural areas and water sources, wildlife, trails, community gardens, and historic sites.
Protect Wildlife and Natural Areas: Several cities discuss avoidance of conflicts with wildlife and
sensitive habitats.
Geographic Distribution: A few cities have general guidelines, such as a one or two mile service
area, but most do not state explicitly how the parks should be distributed through their community.
Design
Fence Height and Material: All cities contacted have galvanized or vinyl coated chain link fences,
with a minimum height of 4 feet. Double gated entries to allow for dog owners to unleash the dogs in
a corral prior to letting the dog run free are the norm.
Surfacing: There is no consensus as to the best type of surface. Several cities have multiple surfacing
types including crusher fines or decomposed granite around the entrance area, concrete, grass, and
mulch. For the larger areas, grass is used most often.
Separate Small and Large Dog Areas: Most cities provide small dog areas if space allows.
Site Furniture and Other Amenities: Most provide benches. Some have community bulletin boards to
post announcements and some have shade structures. Very few have dog play amenities.
Trash Cans and Bag Holders: All provide trash containers and some provide bag holders. A minority
of cities also provide bags.
Signage: All cities contacted post rule signs.
ADA Access: All cities contacted said that they comply with the ADA for access to the site.
Management
Staffing: Cities that have rangers or other park staff monitor dog parks, as well as illegal off-leash
activity outside of dog parks, find this helpful for controlling dogs and building community support.
Fines: Cities that issue warning tickets and/or fines find this effective at reducing the number of
repeat offenders of illegal off-leash dog activity.
Entry Fees: Fees to use dog parks range from free to $35 or $40 per year.
Entry Key Fob: Cities that restrict use of the dog parks to patrons who pay for the permit by installing
a key fob entry find that it encourages more people to follow rules, increases revenue, and provides
a more equitable system for all users.
Recommendations and Guidelines for Dog Park Site Selection, Design, Operations and Maintenance
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Hours of Operation: Dawn to dusk is common.
Use Permit: Obtaining a dog park permit as part of purchasing a dog license is common practice.
Volunteers and Enforcement: A few cities have volunteers involved with the park maintenance and
activity programming. Involvement of community members was noted to increase acceptance of the
dog park and helps to minimize problems.
DOG PARK GUIDELINES FOR ANN ARBOR
Guidelines for Development and Maintenance of New Dog Parks (Goal 3)
Many of the below criteria are consistent with the off-leash Task Force Report of June 1998. However,
several criteria have been updated based on current research and public input. This section outlines guidelines
for placement, design, management, and enforcement of both existing and proposed dog parks, and the
public process to be followed to establish new dog parks. The guidelines are derived from public input and
what the subcommittee learned from research of other city’s practices.
Guidelines for Placement of New Dog Parks
Size: The size of dog parks will be dependent upon the particular park in which it is proposed, other
park activities, facilities, proximity to residences, etc. Larger is better (at least ½ acre), but if a
smaller dog park area is all that can be accommodated in a particular park, and if there is
community support, then a smaller size will be considered.
Buffer from Residential: It is crucial to provide a buffer between nearby residences and the dog
park. The buffer should allow for neighbors to have no more disturbances from a dog park than other
typical park uses. Buffers may include vegetation and/or berms to aid in noise/visual attenuation.
Non-residential Adjacent Land Use: Depending on the type of business or institution, a dog park
may be considered either a beneficial amenity or an undesirable facility.
Drinking Fountain: A source of drinking water is highly desirable within or adjacent to the dog park
area.
Parking: Sufficient parking, convenient to the site, should be provided such that the dog park does not
create undue burden on surrounding neighborhoods.
Land Suitability: The site should be relatively flat and have permeable soils. If a desirable site has
excessive slopes, it should be designed such that erosion does not become an issue, water bodies are
protected, and visibility to all dogs is possible within the fenced in area.
Shade: Shade is highly desirable. The site should provide a good mix of mature trees and open
space/turf grass.
Use Conflict Avoidance: It is important to provide a sufficient buffer between the dog park area and
other recreational facilities such as playgrounds, trails, ball fields, picnic shelters, game courts, or any
existing heavily used or programmed area.
Recommendations and Guidelines for Dog Park Site Selection, Design, Operations and Maintenance
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Protect Natural Areas: Dog park areas should not be located in or in close proximity to natural areas
where flora and fauna, such as ground nesting birds, small mammals, and native plants, would be
disturbed.
Geographic Distribution: Dog park areas should be distributed in the City such that there is equitable
distribution to dog parks in the City.
Guidelines for Design of New Dog Parks
Fencing Height and Type: A minimum of a 4 foot high chain link fence, either galvanized or vinyl
coated, be installed around the perimeter of the site.
Perimeter Plantings/Buffers: If the budget and site permit, and if it is necessary to buffer the dog run
area, vegetation should be planted on the outside of the fence to aid in the aesthetic quality of the
site and to assist in mitigating noise associated with the dog park.
Entrance Design: An entry corral, consisting of at least an 8 foot x 8 foot fenced area with two gates,
should be provided to allow for pet owners to safely unleash their dog prior to letting them in the dog
run area.
Visual Character and Aesthetics: Dog parks should be located so as not to detract from the aesthetic
quality of a park or open space. Ideally, the dog park should be designed to integrate well into the
existing site.
Surfacing: A variety of surfaces may be used within a site. Crushed fines at the entry are
recommended as this area has a concentration of use. In smaller dog run areas, a larger crushed fines
area is recommended as the concentration of dogs may not allow grass to grow. All surfaces should
be easy to maintain. If possible, lawn areas should be rested periodically to allow the turf to recover.
Separate Areas for Large and Small Dogs: When space permits, separate small dog areas should be
provided for dogs up to 25 pounds.
Signage: Rules shall be clearly posted, including codes of behavior, hours, and requirements for entry.
ADA Accessibility: Barrier free access to the site shall be provided, as well as an area through the
corral and at the entry. Barrier free paths through the dog run area should be provided if space and
funding permit.
Trash Containers: Trash containers and waste removal bag holders shall be provided in the dog run
area, making sure that they are located with easy access for maintenance vehicles.
Site Furniture: Ideally, several benches should be provided in convenient locations to allow for
gathering and resting throughout the dog park area.
Pathways: Walking trails around the perimeter would encourage owners to interact with and monitor
their dogs more closely, as well as to provide additional ease of access to the entire site, and should
be provided if there is sufficient space and funding.
Shade: Trees and/or small shade structures should be provided if the site has insufficient shade to
allow humans and dogs to retreat from the sun.
Recommendations and Guidelines for Dog Park Site Selection, Design, Operations and Maintenance
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Water: Drinking fountains should be provided if water is readily available and should include a dog
drinker/bowl.
Lighting: As the park areas are open from dawn to dusk, lighting need not be provided as an
additional amenity.
Agility Equipment: Amenities such as agility equipment may be included if a user group desires them.
Ease of Maintenance: Service gates and trash barrels should be located such that maintenance
vehicles may easily enter from an existing park road, parking lot, or street frontage.
Bulletin Board: A community kiosk and bulletin board should be provided to provide a place to post
notifications for meetings, work days, and events.
Guidelines for Management and Enforcement of Dog Parks
Staffing: Staff monitoring of dog parks during heavy use periods is recommended.
Fines: Warning tickets, followed up by fines, are recommended for repeat offenders to help reduce
the amount of illegal off-leash dog activity outside of dog parks and enforce use by those who have
not paid the fee to use dog parks.
Entry Fees: Fees to use dog parks ranged from free to $35 or $40 per year. The City’s fees are in
line with those around the country. Continue to evaluate fees in relationship to other dog parks.
Entry Key Fob: Restricting use of the dog parks to patrons who pay for the permit is recommended to
encourage more people to follow city rules, increase revenue, and provide a more equitable system
for all users. A key fob would assist in monitoring who has purchased dog park passes and have
obtained the required vaccinations.
Hours of Operation: Maintain current hours to be consistent with all parks: dawn to dusk.
Dog Park License: Obtaining a dog park permit as part of obtaining a dog license is efficient and
should be continued. Explore implementation of an online application process to be more user-friendly
and increase compliance.
Rules: City rules are consistent with other cities. They should remain as is and continue to be posted.
Existing dog park rules are listed in Appendix 6.
Turf Maintenance: Design of dog parks should permit resting grass to allow turf to reestablish.
Volunteers: Volunteer involvement should be encouraged to promote stewardship of dog parks.
Work with park volunteer staff to help develop programs and events, and recruit stewards.
Education: Develop program to educate park users on dog etiquette, and to educate the community
about dogs and dog parks in general.
Process to Establish New Dog Park Sites
Any proposed location should have strong support from surrounding neighbors and, in general, be supported
by the community. Buy-in from immediate neighbors is crucial to the success of any proposed location. Given
this basic criteria, the following process shall be followed when considering establishment of a new dog park.
Recommendations and Guidelines for Dog Park Site Selection, Design, Operations and Maintenance
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1. Establish an ad-hoc committee comprised of members from the Park Advisory Commission, staff, and
citizens to identify potential sites using established guidelines.
2. Have committee evaluate sites using the placement criteria (Appendix 7) to ensure the greatest
opportunity for success while considering geographic distribution.
3. Using the scoring sheets, narrow the sites to those that score the highest.
4. Develop a concept plan for the site being considered that shows the proposed location in the
particular park or public land, the access points, parking, amenities, and landscaping.
5. Plan for public input using the Community Engagement Tool, including conducting an online
questionnaire available to all citizens, and notifying all residents within ¼ mile of the proposed site
by mail with the link for the questionnaire, and the date and place for the public meeting.
6. Hold public meeting to discuss the site being considered and include the input received from the
email questionnaire.
7. If there is general support for the project, concerns and suggestions are shared at the public meeting
and staff will explore modifications to the concept plan.
8. If, after the concept plan is modified, opposition to the plan is still such that the project lacks the
necessary support to succeed, then the second site on the list of potential parks will be considered,
and the public process will be repeated.
9. When a proposed location is generally supported, being sensitive to residents in close proximity to the
proposed dog park, the ad hoc committee will vote on the proposed site.
10. If the committee approves the proposed site, it would then be brought to the Park Advisory
Commission for discussion and recommendation.
11. If the Park Advisory Commission approves the proposal, the site will be brought to City Council and
include a public hearing so that City Ordinance can be modified to accommodate the proposed site.
Guidelines for Improvements to Existing Dog Parks (Goal 4)
In order to improve existing dog park areas, it is important to inventory what we have and explore what is
working and what needs improvement. Lessons learned will also inform maintenance practices for new dog
parks. The City currently has two dog park areas, Swift Run and Olson Parks. The inventory of these parks
follows, as well as recommendations for improvements.
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Inventory of Existing Dog Parks
OVERVIEW OF SWIFT RUN DOG PARK
Location: 2998 E. Ellsworth Road at corner of Platt Road
Size – 10 acre grassy field area with 5 foot high perimeter fencing
Large and small dog run areas
Gravel parking lot with approximately 30 spaces
Double entry/exit control gates (wheel chair accessible)
Mowed trail, landscaping, and benches
On-site portable toilet and nearby, off-site, flush-restrooms (Southeast Area Park at Northwest corner
of Platt and Ellsworth)
Trash receptacles and dog waste disposal stations
Posted rules, signage, and information kiosk
ISSUES AND POTENTIAL IMPROVEMENTS TO SWIFT RUN DOG PARK
1. The location of the park on a former landfill limits the types of amenities that can be installed as
footings are not permitted that might puncture landfill cover.
2. The condition of the parking lot has been a source of complaint because of muddy conditions and
rutting. Paving the parking lot should be considered.
3. Requests have also included water and permanent restrooms. However, no water is available at the
site due to the fact that there is no water main in the vicinity.
4. Continue to explore improvements to surfacing.
OVERVIEW OF OLSON DOG PARK
Location – Dhu Varren Road at corner of Pontiac Trail
Size – .7 acre grassy field area
5 foot high perimeter fencing
One area – no separate large and small dog run areas due to space limitations
Paved parking lot for all park uses
Two double entry/exit control gates (wheel chair accessible)
Benches
Flush restrooms on-site
Drinking fountain with dog bowl located near restrooms
Trash receptacles and dog waste disposal stations at entries to dog park
Posted rules, signage, and information kiosk
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Separate maintenance/entry gate for mowing/maintenance equipment
Surfacing consists of gravel and grass
Wind and shade shelter
One bench in fenced in area and other under shade structure
Shade trees within fence, but not many mature trees
ISSUES AND POTENTIAL IMPROVEMENTS AT OLSON DOG PARK
1. Maintenance of the surfacing has been challenging because of the small size and clay soils. Staff has
experimented with different surfacing types, including woodchips and gravel.
2. Trees have been planted, but they are still small.
3. Location serves north area of town, but is too far from other parts of town.
4. In response to public input, improvements made to the dog park after initial construction include a
wind/shade structure, a second entry corral, and installation of a variety of surfacing types.
Suggestions for Improvements to Existing Dog Parks
1. Continue to evaluate surfacing. Make changes to improve drainage, wearing surface, and turf quality.
2. Work with Park Volunteer staff to find ways to engage volunteers for clean up days and other dog
park events.
3. Establish a plan for future amenities and improvements so that if funding for park amenities is
donated, there is a plan for inclusion in the existing dog parks.
APPENDICES
Appendix 1: Community Questionnaires
The subcommittee decided that questionnaires of the general public would allow a greater number of
residents to participate in the public process. The questionnaires were posted on the City’s website, emails
were sent out via govDelivery, two press releases were posted, and post cards were placed at City Hall as
well as several recreation facilities. The first questionnaire was available to the public for several weeks in
August 2013, and the second in February and March, 2015. The results are as follows:
Questionnaire #1
Over 1,500 individuals completed the first questionnaire
2/3 were female (67.1%); 1/3 male (32.9%)
Age Breakdown for Respondents:
0.2% - under 18
2.1% - 18-24
42.4% - 25-44
45% - 45-64
10.3% - 65+
Zip Codes for Respondents:
58.8% from zip-code 48103
Recommendations and Guidelines for Dog Park Site Selection, Design, Operations and Maintenance
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18.9% from zip-code 48104
15.2% from zip-code 48105
7.1% from zip-code 48108
Q1: Do you currently have a dog?
Currently have a dog – 67.5%
Do not have a dog – 26.2%
Planning to get a dog – 6.2%
Q2: If yes, how many dogs?
Participants were asked to list the number of dogs they owned under 25 pounds and/or over
25 pounds.
Q3: Do you currently use any existing dog parks? If so, which dog parks do you use?
Respondents could select all that applied.
Swift Run – 332
Olson Park – 158
Do not use dog parks – 956
Participants were also able to list other area dog parks. Other sites mentioned included:
Animal Kingdom
Arise Dog Park
Mill Pond
Paw Run
Neighborhood
1 2 3 4 5 6
Weigh Under 25 Pounds 259 50 10 2 0 1
Weigh 25 Pounds or More 621 188 18 7 4 1
0
100
200
300
400
500
600
700 Number of Responses
Recommendations and Guidelines for Dog Park Site Selection, Design, Operations and Maintenance
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Q4: How often do you use dog parks?
I don’t use dog parks – 61%
A few times annually – 16.6%
Once a month – 7.6%
Multiple times per week – 6.8%
Daily – 1.9%
Q5: What do you currently like about the existing dog park(s)?
This was an open ended question. The most common responses are listed below:
That they exist
The space – size
Secure fencing
That they are close to my home
That they are far from my home
No competition for other uses – outside existing parks
Seating
Nothing
That there is a legal place for dogs to play off-leash
Q6: What do you dislike about the existing dog park(s)?
This was an open ended question. The most common responses are listed below:
Ill-behaved dogs
Fee charged
Location – too far away
No water
Not enough shade
Cleanliness
No enforcement
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Q7: If a dog park were located at a given distance from your residence, how often would you
use it? (Check all that apply):
68.8% Would use a dog park daily if it was less than ¼ mile from their residence
63.5% Would use daily or weekly if it was ¼ to 1 mile from their residence
56.1% Would use weekly or monthly if it was 1-2 miles from their residence
78.7% Would use monthly or not at all if it was 2-5 miles from residence
Q8: What times of day do you or would you most likely use a dog park? (Select all that apply.)
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Q9: How important are the following items to a successful dog park? Please select the 3 items
that are MOST important to you and the 3 items that are LEAST important to you. Selecting
more than 3 for each column will nullify the response.
Q10: Are there issues related to dog parks that concern you? (Select all that apply.)
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Q11: Would you support a dog park being located in…? (Answer all that apply)
Participants were asked to list parks for each sub-question. Word clouds are used to indicate the variety of
responses. The larger the word(s) appear, the more times it was mentioned.
My neighborhood park (please provide the name of the park).
581 out of 943 selected this option.
Larger community-wide park (please provide the name of the park).
478 out of 943 selected this option.
Other community park (please provide the name of the park).
251 out of 943 selected this option.
As many places as the city will provide (please provide locations).
267 out of 943 selected this option.
I do not want a dog park anywhere.
Allmendinger Ann Arbor Bandemer Bird Hills Buhr Campus Downtown Fuller
Gallup Haisley Land Langford Lillie Locations Nature Area Park Place River School
Slauson Space Specific West Side Wurster
Allmendinger Bird Hills Field Greenview Hudson Mills Liberty Plaza Nature Area Park School
Virginia West Side Woods Wurster
Allmendinger Almendinger Park Bandemer Barton Bird Hills Buhr Burns Park County Farm
Eberwhite Gallop Gallup Hunt Park Nature Area Veterans Park Vets West Park
Allmendinger Beckley Buhr Park Burns Park County Farm Park Cranbrook
Park Frisinger Park Fritz Park Gallup Park Hollywood Park Hunt Park
MaryfieldMiller Park Nature Area Neighborhood Parks Park Near
Sugarbush Swift Run Vegas Park Veterans Park Vets Park Virginia Park
Waterworks Park Wellington PlaygroundWest Park Wheeler Park Windemere
ParkWurster Park
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130 out of 943 selected this option.
Q12: Would you be willing to volunteer at a dog park?
Clean – 199
Landscape – 180
Help organize events and activities – 156
Fundraise – 115
Q13 : Would you support off-leash dog hours in parks without fencing?
Yes – 40.1%
No – 46.1%
Don’t know – 13.8%
The full results of the community questionnaire, including all open ended responses may be found at this link:
PAC Dog Park Survey Results (PDF).
Questionnaire #2
The subcommittee decided that a second questionnaire of the general public was needed after there were
requests to revisit the criteria. The questionnaire was posted on the City’s website, emails were sent out via
govDelivery, a press releases was posted, and emails were sent to everyone who had attended a previous
meeting or provided their email. The questionnaire was available to the public for several weeks in February
and March, 2015. The results are as follows:
168 individuals viewed the questionnaire, and 40 completed the questionnaire.
Three questions were asked about the process, research and scoring sheet:
Q1: Given the research presented from other cities, and that there are not universally accepted dog park
best management practices, does the proposed criteria for Ann Arbor provide sufficient guidance to
determine potential sites for a new dog park?
Yes – 55%
No - 42.5%
No opinion – 2.5%
Q2: Do you feel that the proposed scoring sheet provides an objective means to help determine whether
or not a particular site should be proposed for a dog park?
Yes – 60%
No – 32.5%
No opinion – 7.5%
Q3: Do you feel that the proposed process to establish new dog park locations provides for an open and
fair decision making process for locating dog parks?
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Yes – 67.5%
No – 25%
No opinion – 7.5%
The full results of the survey included open ended responses are located on the dog park website page.
Appendix 2: Website Page
A webpage was developed containing information concerning meetings, the survey, and resource materials.
Information on the website included the following:
SURVEY ON POTENTIAL NEW DOG PARKS
Your input and feedback are important to us! The desire for additional dog parks is identified in the current
City of Ann Arbor Parks and Recreation Open Space Plan (an element of the City Master Plan). In an effort to
ensure the Park Advisory Commission is responding to this need in an appropriate manner, the public is being
asked for input on where one or more dog parks could be located and what types of amenities should be
considered for inclusion in new and existing dog parks.
SURVEYS :
We invite everyone to take the dog park survey, whether or not you have a dog. In total, the survey should
take between 5-10 minutes to complete. We greatly appreciate your time, and thank you in advance for
sharing your thoughts. The survey link is www.surveymonkey.com/s/7YXPKXG or please call 734.794.6230
ext. 42590 to receive a paper copy. The survey will remain open through Monday, Aug. 12, 2013.
PUBLIC MEETINGS :
Wednesday, Sept. 11, 7 to 9:00 p.m. at Cobblestone Farm Barn (2781 Packard Road)
Tuesday, Sept. 24, 7 to 9:00 p.m. at Traverwood Library (3333 Traverwood Drive)
Tuesday, March 5, 7-8:30 at City Hall (301 East Huron Street)
EMAIL YOUR INPUT:
a2parks@a2gov.org and visit our website at http://www.a2gov.org/parks.
Persons with disabilities are encouraged to participate in public meetings. Accommodations, including sign
language interpreters, may be arranged by contacting the city clerk’s office at 734.794.6140; via email at
cityclerk@a2gov.org; or by written request addressed/mailed or delivered to the Ann Arbor City Clerk’s
Office, 301 E. Huron Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48104. Requests need to be received at least 48 hours in advance
of the meeting.
PAC SUBCOMMITTEE MEETINGS:
Tuesday, April 23, 2013, Monday, May 5, 2013, 8 to 9:30 a.m., Friday, May 31, 2013, 4 to 5:30 p.m.,
Friday, June 21, 2013, 4 to 5:30 p.m., Monday, July 8, 2013, 4 to 5:30 p.m., Thursday, July 25, 2013, 8 to 9
a.m.., Friday, Aug. 23, 2013, 2:30 to 4 p.m., Friday, Sept. 20, 2013, 8:00 a.m., Friday, Nov. 8, 2013, 9 to
10 a.m., Monday, Nov. 25, 2013, 8 to 9 a.m., Monday, Dec. 2, 2013, 8 to 9 a.m.
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CITY WIDE PUBLIC MEETINGS:
Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2013, 7 to 9 p.m., Cobblestone Farm, 2781 Packard Road, Ann Arbor
Tuesday, Sept. 24, 2013, 7 to 9 p.m., Traverwood Library, 3333 Traverwood Drive (at Huron Parkway)
The Dog Park Subcommittee of the Park Advisory Commission is exploring options for additional dog parks
within the City of Ann Arbor. Meetings are open to the public and a space for public commentary is included
on the agenda.
You can e-mail Parks Planner Amy Kuras or call 734.794.6230 ext. 42590 to receive additional information.
SUBCOMMITTEE MEMBERS INCLUDE:
Ingrid Ault
Karen Levin
Missy Stults
Staff support include Amy Kuras, Colin Smith, David Rohr
DOCUMENTS THAT THE SUBCOMMITTEE IS REVIEWING INCLUDE:
Dog Park Questionnaire
Dog Park Survey
Dog Park Letter
Dog Park Article
PAC Dog Park Survey Results (PDF)
PAC Dog Park Survey Results (Excel)
The survey results are now available in an Excel spreadsheet format (above) for those interested in delving
deeper into the material. The Excel file can be downloaded and saved to your computer.
Additional cross tabulated survey reports are available upon request. Please email request to David Rohr at
drohr@a2gov.org.
Appendix 3: Public Meetings
Three public meetings were held to obtain general feedback about locations, criteria, and existing parks.
Notes from public meeting held on September 11, 2013
29 members of the public and 5 Park Advisory Commission members attended. The background and an
overview of the input process was presented as well as a summary of the survey. Meeting participants then
were asked to provide feedback.
Discussion about criteria:
Parks are used by many types of people, children, etc.
Adequate space is important.
Big spaces – wide and long for dogs to run.
Pay attention to potential use conflicts; children’s play area at Wurster Park.
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Permeable soils are important.
Not bordering households.
Distance from neighbors.
Avoid established neighborhood uses.
Drainage – not on slopes, so that feces does not drain into areas where children are playing.
Adequate parking – Old West Side is already full of cars from people who work downtown. There is
traffic congestion. People who would drive to a proposed park would make the situation worse.
What did we look at – want more specifics – how did these come about.
Every site needs to be evaluated on its own merits. The neighborhood is going to need to like it.
Drainage – not only slope away, but how soil perks – permeability.
Can you please reveal which parks informed your criteria?
Baltimore, Provincetown, Madison, and New Haven – lessons learned.
Maintenance:
Why are we considering another dog park when we can’t maintain what we have?
Would help to know mitigation strategies for taking care of what we have.
We need to know how to fix things – do it right before building more dog parks
Budget:
What is the budget?
How much is the partnership with the County?
What is the budget for capital and operating?
Why can’t we cooperate with the County?
Existing Dog Parks:
Users had a lot of complaints about existing dog parks.
Lessons learned – needed to modify parks, volunteers didn’t work out.
Why not reconfigure Swift Run to make it more fun?
Add to Swift Run – sand, pea gravel, cement – surfaces that can be cleaned.
Swift Run – water, filling in of low areas, parking lot, partitioning.
Issues:
Every park is a dog park – everyone lets their dogs run off-leash.
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Do not want a dog park in West Park.
Focus on one park vs. many parks.
Illegal gatherings.
Dog park licenses – online instead of having to come down to City Hall.
Remedy current dog park issues and learn from it.
Location:
Is there something that can be a walkable amenity from downtown?
It will never be walkable for everyone.
Look at the process in other communities – What is the best distance from houses? What is the minimum
size? People are interested in what makes a good location.
What parameters should we consider for a downtown park?
Identify dead spaces, other spaces that are not parks.
What about newly acquiring areas for dog parks?
Consider spaces that are not currently used as parks. Are there empty lots downtown or parking lots
that could be used as part time dog runs?
Will the city acquire new property for a dog park to avoid existing use conflicts in existing parks?
Be clear about centrally located dog park.
The question of dog park locations needing to be no more than 2 miles away makes me ask “away
from whom?? The people who would like Wurster Park would not be willing to walk to the North Main
City property, but folks closer to that spot would. How will you resolve that?
Why not remodel or use space not currently a park?
What properties have you looked at and eliminated – non-City owned.
Other:
Excited to have a dog park.
How do we hear what cities like Baltimore are doing?
Timeline – when do we expect to arrive at a conclusion?
Park fee with dog licensing fee
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Notes from public meeting held on September 24, 2013
9 members of the public and 3 Park Advisory Commission members attended. The same presentation was
made as at the first meeting, but then participants were divided into two groups to discuss the criteria and
make suggestions as to specific potential locations.
Input on Proposed Criteria:
Size - people tend to take little dogs to little parks.
Enforcement is crucial – needs to be staffed.
Cleaning up after dogs.
Bar code entry, swipe card.
Swift Run is really huge – it doesn’t need to be that big. People lose track of their dogs.
Drainage – muddy dog park not good, need to rethink surfacing, provide alternatives, make sure any
new areas have proper drainage.
Parking spaces – need to be adequate for anticipated use.
Noise – elevation difference between park and surrounding area – in a valley or on a hill can help.
Keep an eye on historical nature of park; make sure that change in use does not change intention
or character.
Natural feature preservation – no development of sensitive natural features/areas.
Shade – need to make sure there are adequate trees.
Operation – can you control number of dogs using a particular dog park at any one time?
Use conflicts – buffers needed between different types of uses (play areas, etc.).
Connection to river or a moving body of water is a desirable feature.
Ideas for new dog parks:
Fuller Park South – has adequate parking, need to stay away from wetlands.
Kuebler Langford Park – thruway hikers, away from neighbors, noisy highway would cover noise
of barking.
Broadway Park – close to downtown, not much pedestrian traffic, not connected to B2B trail, noise
from trains, away from neighbors.
Veterans Memorial Park – noise offset by traffic, parking adequate, may be too popular, need an
acre minimum for this site.
DTE Property – not owned by City, away from neighbors.
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Notes from public meeting held on March 5, 2015
Fifteen members of the public and two Park Advisory Commission members attended the meeting. Research
done by the subcommittee was presented, along with proposed revised scoring criteria based on what was
learned.
Comments from attendees about why they came to the meeting:
Would like equal access to city services
Saline dog park – really like it, interested in parks in general
Special place where dogs should be, not around churches and things of that nature
Where could a dog park be placed? Concerned about cleaning up after dogs
Walks in regular parks, don’t think that Ann Arbor is going to make a dog park because we have too
many spaces where people keep their dogs off leash
Dog clean up is an issue and would like to have input on where dog parks could be and where they
shouldn’t be
Concerned about proximity of parks and who is going to maintain the park
Concerned about dog residue, and don’t want dogs around little people and elders because they
could bite, concerned about location around church. Wants to know about methods for choosing dog
parks.
Overview of meeting purpose
There is a long history of advocacy to establish dog parks, and people have very strongly held views
about dog parks
Worked to come up with a consistent and coherent process for locating dog parks, and want to make
sure that the process is as objective as possible
Want to make sure City is on the right track before considering specific sites
Attendees at meeting scored a location, and provided the following feedback about the scoring sheet:
There should be extra points for water bodies for swimming
Change residential buffer to institutional buffer as well, including churches, hospitals, etc.
Buffer from residents isn’t always better as maybe being closer for walkability is desired
Shade criteria is confusing
Use conflict avoidance should be about not just what is in the park, but what is around it
Geography – simplify so that it is about more equitable distribution
Clarify water quality and drainage criteria
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Water source was confusing – is it about places to drink or swim or both?
Not sure that separating kids from dog parks is a desirable thing, having the kids at the park and
then a place for dogs in the same vicinity can be desirable as well.
Could the scoring be weighted?
Is there wiggle room in the selection criteria in the times of use, etc. It’s not like there is a formula, it is
site by site.
Appendix 4: Research from Other Communities
Staff and Park Advisory Commission subcommittee members performed research to explore best practices
from communities around the country, as well as professional organizations that specialize in pets. The
research included internet searches to find out what type of criteria were being used to site dog parks, as
well as what kind of design criteria were used to establish the areas. In addition to the web searches, staff
and Park Advisory Commission members telephoned and emailed individuals from more than 10 cities to
discuss the successes and struggles associated with their public process, design, and maintenance of dog parks
in their communities. A range of cities were contacted, including several whose population and makeup were
similar to Ann Arbor (university towns), several major cities who have numerous dog parks, and regional
facilities in Michigan and other states in the Midwest with similar climate.
The questions that were asked included the following. Responses are summarized in the charts:
Do you have criteria to site a dog park?
Do you have criteria for design of a dog park?
Do you have a minimum buffer and/or distance between dog parks and existing resident? If so, how
did you arrive at the criteria?
What kind of oversight do you have to enforce rules, monitor behavior of dogs, restrict entry, etc.? Do
you have staff on site?
Do you engage volunteers? If so, how?
Do you have any educational programs for the public, such as dog behavior issues they might
encounter, complaint procedures, etc.?
What type of decision making process was involved to establish the dog park?
Are you satisfied with how your public process panned out? Were there contentious issues? If so, how
did they get resolved?
Do your dog parks include a separate area for small dogs? If so, how large is the area?
What has, in your opinion, worked well in establishment and maintenance of your dog parks?
What would you do differently next time around?
In order to compare the responses that were gathered, the following charts outline the responses received in
categories to allow for comparison.
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Several cities, including Denver, CO; Salt Lake County, UT; and Oakland, CA have master plan documents
that were used to provide data. Others were telephoned and emailed, and others had useful information on
their websites. These were all utilized to compare criteria. Not all cities had criteria for every category
included in the charts, but there was sufficient information to provide comparative information.
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Appendix 5: Charts Summarizing Data from Other Cities
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Appendix 6: Existing Dog Park Rules
DOG PARK USERS
PLEASE OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING RULES
1. A permit is required to use this facility. For registrations call 994-2725 City, 222-
6600 County.
2. Dogs must display current registration, license, and vaccination tags.
3. Users of this facility do so at their own risk. Dog behavior can be unpredictable
around other dogs and strangers.
4. Dog owners and handlers are strictly liable for any damage or injury caused by their
dogs.
5. Dog handlers must be 16 years of age or older.
6. Children under age 15 are not allowed in the park unless accompanied by an adult.
7. All dogs must remain on leash until inside the designated fenced area.
8. Dogs must not be left unattended. Dogs must be in view and under the voice
command of their handler at all times.
9. Dog handlers are required to clean up and dispose of their dogs’ waste.
10. Dogs in heat and puppies under 4 months of age are not permitted in the park.
11. Dogs that fight or exhibit aggressive behavior must be immediately removed from
the park.
12. No more than two dogs per handler are allowed at one time.
13. No smoking, food, or alcohol is allowed within the park.
14. Professional dog trainers shall not use the park to conduct their business.
15. Failure to comply with posted rules is subject to citation, expulsion, or arrest, as well
as dog impound.
Park Hours are dawn to dusk
(Subject to closures during required maintenance operations.)
Call 911 for Emergency Assistance
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Appendix 7: Scoring Sheet for Placement Criteria