Might Rover Be Roving Up the Road?

— from Jeff Hanson —

The Orcas Island Park and Recreation District (OIPRD) and the San Juan County Land Bank (SJCLB) are looking into the feasibility of providing a new, permanent home for the Orcas Off-leash Area (OOLA) also known as the “Dog Park”. The proposed site is a 2-acre portion of the Land Bank’s 115 acre Crescent Beach Preserve uplands adjacent to Buck Park and Mt. Baker Road.

The present off-leash area, located on Port of Orcas land near the airport at the corner of Mt. Baker and North Beach roads, is managed by OOLA’s volunteer board. While the Port has been very generous in permitting use of their property for this purpose, there is concern that, due to grant obligations with the Federal Aviation Administration, the use could be revoked. Tony Simpson, Port Manager, notes that, “We enjoy having the off-leash area, and they have been good tenants, but we cannot guarantee we will be able to continue to provide the space. The proposed new location adjacent to Buck Park seems ideally suited for this popular activity.”

Last fall, interested community members began discussions with the Port and County Council member Rick Hughes. The Land Bank was approached regarding use of some land for this purpose, and OIPRD joined the conversation to explore how this might fit into the big picture for Buck Park. Jeff Hanson, past chair of OOLA, has valuable experience from the dog park’s previous move, and is helping facilitate the discussion.

Katie O’Rourke, current chair of OOLA, sees many advantages to the potential move. “The new location would be larger, with options for both open and forested areas, and a frequently requested space for small dogs. There would also be water for the dogs, shade, better parking, and nearby restrooms. But perhaps the best part is that this would be a permanent home with consistent professional management.” Katie emphasizes that the OOLA Board would continue to be a source for volunteers who are eager to help care for the facility.

While all parties agree this is a concept with many positive aspects and strong community support, there are significant steps to plan and build the off-leash area ahead. First, a provisional use permit – with conditions suitable for an off-leash area and environmental protection – must be approved.  Funds will be needed to prepare the site and install fencing, parking, plumbing, and signage. An inter-agency agreement with the Land Bank must be drafted and approved, allowing OIPRD to manage the off-leash dog park as an adjunct of Buck Park.