by Corin Martin, Courier Press
Prairie du Chien’s newest park officially opened Saturday for energetic patrons of the four-legged variety to run off-leash.
The PdC Dog Park is located off Highway 18 Bypass by the Campion Street Boat Landing.
The city purchased the property from the Department of Transportation over a year ago. Since, $37,000 has been raised from 60-plus sponsors, who are recognized by signage at the new park.
Thirty loads of dirt and 60 pounds of grass seed were brought in, some trees removed, fencing and donated picnic tables installed, and a human/dog water fountain was put in.
There are separately fenced small dog and big dog areas provided. This is the only park within the city where dogs are permitted to move about off-leash, according to parks and rec director Mike Ulrich. Rules are posted at the park and waste bags are available on site for use by dog owners.
“Our people worked hard to bring this park to town and now to maintain it. But I think the public needs to help with that too,” Mayor Dave Hemmer said.
Dog park committee member Bob Witt said additional amenities are desired for the park. Donations will continue to be accepted.
Clarissa and Sean Russell’s little boy, Cooper, tried out the canine water fountain before spying the camera. (Photos by Correne Martin)
Dog park committee members Randy Paske, Tricia Kunz and Bob Witt stand in front of the new dog park and its sponsorship sign alongside parks and rec director Mike Ulrich and PdC Mayor Dave Hemmer. Ulrich pointed out how much the real park looks like the original artists’s rendition of the park painted by Lynda Coon.
Mayor Dave Hemmer and his daughter, Kylie, followed their Corgi pup around as it wandered among numerous friendly pups at the new Prairie du Chien Dog Park Saturday.
Artist rendering of the future PDC Dog Park