Design details for the proposed dog park unveiled

As there have been a number of concerns expressed regarding the proposed Whitefish Dog Park at the Armory Park, this seems to be a good time to list the proposed design criteria and regulations addressed by the Dog Park Group, which consists of a professional landscape contractor, a canine behavior specialist, neighbors and several dog owners.

Phase I: Vinyl-coated 6-foot chain-link fencing surrounding the area; double-access gates at each end to parking access; paved disability-access through park from one gate to the other; paths winding around and through the area; a "wild area" with obstacles like downed logs; berms, trees and shrubs to buffer noise but not blocking the mountain view for neighbors; underground irrigation' water faucets; benches' a minimum of six poop-bag dispensers and trash collectors for five acres, more to be installed if needed; signs for regulations and a community bulletin board; and five years of maintenance costs.

Phase II: Separate small dog park, which will also be used for dog-training classes and revenue-producing dog competitions; pond with gravel beach; gazebo on concrete pad; and a dog-wash hose.

Presently we have a list of more than a dozen dog-park regulations plus reasons why we feel they are necessary. They can be viewed by e-mailing me at mferguson@cyberport.net.

We understand that, like tennis, ice skating, volleyball, soccer, softball, skateboarding, etc., special-interest usage of city park property is a privilege, and we will treat this facility accordingly.

To ensure this, we plan to form a volunteer group to manage and police the dog park.

The American Veterinary Medical Association calculates that 39 percent of the population in a community similar to Whitefish own dogs, and we feel that these citizens deserve a safe place to recreate with their dogs.

We are glad for the opportunity to address any concerns. I can be reached at the above e-mail address. Kerrie Byrne can be reached at kerriebyrne@centurytel.net.