The District of Squamish plans to start public engagement on off-leash dog areas in the community in July and August.
Although nothing has been finalized yet, five locations are being considered.
The five areas are: Squamish River dike behind the dog pound, Stawamus River dike, Trails between the Squamish Valley Golf Club and the Mamquam River, Judd Beach trails, and Merrill Park in Garibaldi Highlands.
The Squamish Estuary, however, is being considered a “no go” zone for off-leash dogs, meaning that dogs must be leashed in this area at all times. This is to protect important wildlife and natural habitat values, says the district.
District staff first came up with these areas in 2019, and did some public engagement online but the project was interrupted by COVID-19.
The staff is now reviewing all feedback and considering factors such as the community’s growth, increase in number of dogs, wildlife encounters, and the need for conserving sensitive environments.
Owner responsibility conditions are also being considered such as dogs being licensed and displaying a tag, owners having care and control of their dog, and picking up the dog’s waste and disposing it in a bin.
The staff will start a public engagement process next month, and officials plan to report back to council with the findings of the public engagement in September.
Alex says
Dogs and golf balls don’t mix. The sight of a flying ball on fairways 10 ,11, 12 &. 13 to many a dog is simply irresistible. Off leash beside a golf course is absurd.
George Wilson says
As for dike areas. How would they fence this area off. If I wanted to walk through this area and not be bothered by off leash dogs. How would that work out?.
Alma Lewis says
These seem to be the best walking places for people who may be recovering from an injury or perhaps more elderly; precisely the people who don’t appreciate dogs running up to them and jumping on them. This is a difficult situation. Some of these locations are already serving as off leash areas and for the most part, people are very conscientious about leashing their dogs up as people approach. But will designating them as leash free areas radically increase the numbers?
Jess says
Dont walk in the area
Jess says
Finally!!! Everyone needs to be aware of the designated off leash areas so that people with reactive dogs or people don’t like dogs can avoid the area. Then finally everyone can find a place to be happy.