Deermound Dog Off Leash Park
The Deermound Dog Off Leash Park is a multi-purpose park serving residents across the County. Located on Highway 21 and Highway 628, the park is Strathcona County's only dog off-leash site. It is also enjoyed by nearby residents as their local park, and is a beautiful natural area.
While this site will remain a dog off-leash area that retains its natural elements, a review of how the park is currently used and what kinds of changes are desired has been completed.
Strathcona County conducted this review to ensure the park meets community needs now and in the future. A user survey was mailed to nearby residents and a sample of dog license owners. Other information considered included a biophysical assessment of the site, an observation study, a review of provincial government roadway plans, a review of best practices in other municipalities and a review of the environmental remediation of the former landfill.
Why the review was done
- interest was expressed by some nearby residents to develop different recreational opportunities on site
- information obtained by Strathcona County suggested Alberta Infrastructure and Transportation will be implementing some changes to park access and parking
What the review accomplished
Planning parameters were determined through resident and stakeholder input and research:
- retain the site's natural landscape
- continue dog off-leash use
- remediate the former landfill to Alberta Environment standards
- create trail connections
- accommodate site access changes
- provide adequate parking
- ensure access for emergency services
- prohibit motorized vehicle use
- minimize conflicts between users and residents
Site redevelopment plan
A site redevelopment plan has been completed and includes the following highlights:
- planting to screen adjacent residents
- berming rather than fencing
- additional seating areas
- additional trash receptacles
- improved parking
- natural play area
- informal gathering areas
- crushed gravel trail loop
- mulch trail loop
- site for future dog agility area
- washroom
Deermound Dog Off Leash Park site redevelopment plan
Long term strategy
As well as developing the site redevelopment plan, research showed a lot of work will need to be completed to ensure success of the off-leash area and accommodation of future additional sites including:
- encouragement of co-existence and compromise
- a need to have more dog parks, a clear process for park designation that includes adjacent residents
- etiquette, education, monitoring and reinforcement programs
- stewardship and site volunteers are required to maintain a successful dog park
- the understanding that use of the park for dogs is a privilege
- Parks Bylaws and Animal Control Bylaws need to say the same thing
- increased maintenance required to keep park clean and safe
Further information
780-464-8117
revitalize@strathcona.ca
Last updated: Tuesday, December 11, 2012
Page ID: 3471