Community Corner
Dog Parks To Begin Opening In Phases
Five "dog exercise areas" operated by the Lake County Forest Preserve will open gradually next week.
On Monday, June 1, the Operations Committee approved the gradual reopening of five Dog Exercise Areas operated by the Lake County Forest Preserves starting next week with restrictions in place to comply with COVID-19 concerns.
"Now that we have entered Phase 3 of the Restore Illinois plan, off-leash dog exercise areas are able to reopen as long as operational restrictions and additional safety and social distancing guidelines are in place," said Chief Operations Officer Mike Tully.
Lakewood Dog Park in Wauconda and Waukegan Savanna Dog Park in Waukegan will open Monday, June 8. If all goes smoothly, Duck Farm Dog Park in Lake Villa and Prairie Wolf Dog Park in Lake Forest will open Wednesday, June 10 and Independence Grove Dog Park in Libertyville will open Friday, June 12. Check LCFPD.org/dogs to confirm opening dates and details.
“Once reopened, modified use practices will be in place for the health and safety of Forest Preserve staff, dog owners and their pets,” Tully said. "Access will be limited to annual permit holders only. To help prevent overcrowding, daily permits will not be sold at this time. Additional signage will remind permit holders to do their part and abide by safety rules and protocols to help prevent the spread of COVID-19."
Ranger Police will monitor activity to ensure safety rules, social distancing and other public health guidelines are being followed, Tully said. The parking lots will also be monitored and if they become overcrowded, the entry gate may be closed until the number of visitors becomes manageable.
For a “touchless” and socially distant visit, permit holders will be asked to follow guidelines.
This press release was produced by the Lake County Forest Preserve. The views expressed here are the author’s own.
