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New programs add to off-leash opportunities

Nanaimo residents now have more green space to explore with their dogs off-leash.

Two new pilot off-leash areas will be tested until May 2012.St. George Street Ravine and Invermere Beach off of Icarus Drive brings the total of off-leash options for dog owners to eight in the city.

Beaufort Park, located in central Nanaimo will become a permanent year-round off-leash park, while the field at Diver Lake Park will serve as a winter-only (October through March) off-leash area.

The trails of the upper section of Colliery Dam Park will also be leash-optional from 6 a.m.-10 a.m. and 4 p.m. until park closing. All three were pilot sites during 2010.

Other off-leash areas include the fenced in area at Beban Park, Cable Bay and the power lines at Westwood Lake.

Improvements to Beban’s off-leash park are underway including new lights, an expanded small dog area, perimeter trails, shade trees and additional water fountains.

The park reopens May 12.

Information on the dog off leash options and animal related bylaws can be found at www.nanaimo.ca. Feedback on the park improvements and pilot sites is welcome and can be directed to Kirsty MacDonald parks and open space planner at 250-755-7506.