Expect howls of resistance — perhaps even a snarl or two — as backers of a popular Evergreen dog park plan a weekend protest of the imminent closure of Elk Meadow Park by Jefferson County officials.
The battle over the future of the 107-acre park has gone on for weeks, with the county expressing concerns about the vast amount of dog waste left behind at the site and the effect that is having on water quality. The county also wants to retard erosion at the park by keeping people and their pets out so that the land can heal itself.
Earlier this month, it appeared that a compromise had been reached when the Jefferson County Open Space department agreed to keep open an 8-acre section for off-leash use. But last week, the county made the decision to close the entire 107 acres on April 4, citing “multiple safety and environmental challenges.”
A citizen group, Friends of Evergreen Dog Park, plans to hold the #BARKBACK rally at 2 p.m. Saturday at Bergen park-n-Ride lot, Hwy 74 & County Road 65, as part of a loud and visible effort to save the park from closure. They say they have proposed a “novel” and “visionary” plan to maintain the park so that it’s a healthy and sustainable amenity.