5/11/12
Updated with drawings of the latest design being considered.
This plan was discussed and approved at a
special public Park Commission meeting on April 17th, 7:30
in the Police Station conference room.
Click the link above for more information.
A number of plants have already been placed. More to come. Contact us if you would like to help.

Working drafts of a Park commission vision for city parks and trails in Montpelier.
Click on links (in blue) to download a copy of the vision or description
1. Parks Greenprint is a map of the vision
2.   Description of the vision as proposed by the Parks Commission
How the vision could happen is through purchase, grants and/ or donations, or .....

1. To have at least one significant park where wildlife can be protected, viewed, and enjoyed in a natural environment.
2. For residents, and other park visitors, to have at least one park they can go to without having to worry about being confronted by unleashed dogs.
 

Background

• One important reason the North Branch River Park was set aside was because it was appreciated and valued for its wildlife and its diversity.
• More and more dogs are being included in walks in the parks, and not all dog owners are following city ordinances or the Parks code of conduct. Relaxed interpretations of “under control” have had negative impacts on park visitors.

The Conflicts with wildlife and other park users

• Some dogs “playfully” hunt, while others have more serious responses to instinctual urges. Even if dogs are unsuccessful in their “hunts” the stress from the chase, disruptions to home or nest, or the extra expense of precious energy in winter can often prove fatal (Indirect Predation). Many animals found historically in the North Branch Park, like the wood turtle, otter, moose and turkey are sensitive to harassment by dogs. Now signs of wildlife many have appreciated in the North Branch are becoming rare.

• Dogs can and have killed numerous animals and birds (Direct Predation). At least two adult deer and one fawn have been killed by dogs in the last couple of years, known since virtually all remains were uneaten. The park has been home to many varieties of birds and small animals that live in the tall grasses near the paths.

• Numerous people have had negative experiences with uncontrolled dogs sometime in their lives. Having a place where people can go, without having to worry each time a dog comes by, is helpful in creating positive and peaceful park experiences.

Dogs can be off leash in Hubbard Park as long as the city ordinance is followed, "dogs must be under control at all times"… this also means no charging or threatening, as well as the ordinance regarding taking responsibility for dog waste.

 

 

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Park Maps were updated fall of 2011!

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Link to Montpelier Recreation Department and Recreation Events
www.montpelierrec.org/events