This week, the District of Saanich council determined what the leashing requirements of dogs would be going forward in the Panama Flats park.
The decision follows last fall’s approval of an updated concept plan for Panama Flats as a whole.
According to the District, after staff presented both ‘leash optional’ and ‘on leash’ options to council, it was ultimately decided that keeping dogs leashed in designated areas is for the best.
Council believes that keeping dogs on leash will allow the animals to enjoy the park while offering protection for migratory and nesting birds who call the park home.
So going forward, the main trail between Hyacinth Park and Roy Road will be on leash.
Similarly, trails on Panama Hill and the new neighbourhood connection link to Warren Avenue will be on leash.
Dogs will be fully prohibited from being within the most sensitive areas of the park which are marked as a ‘disturbance-free zone’ in the updated concept plan.
But, the good news for dog owners is that the District is planning for an enclosed area to be established in the north-west corner of the park to accommodate off leash dogs.
One driving factor for most of the park to be designated as an on leash area is the delicate nature of the Panama Flats’ ecosystem, which is put at risk by dogs being off-trail.
“I see this option as a once in a lifetime opportunity,” said Councillor Karen Harper during this week’s council meeting.
“I see this as our moment and chance to be remembered for doing the best thing, the right thing in relation to the environment and for our community overall.”
Harper noted that she sees this plan as a compromise between those who do, and do not want dogs in the park.
Though this plan has now been established, the District says the off leash section is still pending a future budget request.
According to Saanich staff, the above plan for leashing in the park is the most cost-effective option for the District, as it eliminates the need for fencing along the main trail.
These changes will come into effect immediately after final reading at the next council meeting.
