Off-leash dogs are not welcome at Birch Island Community Park.
That’s the message from Thompson-Nicola Regional District, which said visitors who allow dogs to roam off leash at the park has put a damper on the ability of community members to use the park for other purposes.
“Dogs are welcome in the park as long as they are on a leash. Dog owners must always be in control of their pet and must clean up after them,” noted the TNRD in a news release issued April 25.
The Birch Island Community Park is a multi-use park intended to offer recreation opportunities for residents of Birch Island and surrounding areas. The community park includes a picnic shelter, playground, basketball nets, benches, a concession building, and open green space.
The establishment of the park and ongoing improvements have been made possible thanks to tax contributions from Birch Island residents. Operational costs of this park are funded through taxation of TNRD Electoral Area residents.
“Although the park is fenced, it is not an off-leash dog park, and that has never been an intended use of this park,” noted the TNRD.
The TNRD asks all park users to respect park rules so all community members can enjoy the space. Further enforcement steps will be taken if park users do not respect park rules, which are in place for the benefit of all residents.
“We recognize that there is currently no designated off-leash dog park in the greater Clearwater area. As part of the Parks and Trails Strategy being created this year, the TNRD will be seeking public input during this process. This Parks and Trails Strategy will guide the management of existing recreation infrastructure and will also guide development of future parks and trails. “
The TNRD said to stay tuned for more information on how to provide feedback as part of this process.
The TNRD owns and operates 10 community parks, two regional parks, the Agate Bay Boat Launch, and the Blue River Trail Network.
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