North Cowichan is inviting residents to help shape the future of an off-leash dog area in Chemainus as the municipality considers how best to balance the needs of both dog guardians and sports field users.
A public survey is now open on the Connect North Cowichan website offering residents the chance to weigh in on three possible options for the off-leash area currently located at Field 3 in the Chemainus Ball Park.
The existing setup designates Field 3 as an off-leash space from Sept. 1 to March 15, with exclusive use dedicated to baseball during ball season. With interest growing in both recreational sports and year-round dog access, the municipality has been exploring alternatives that could better meet the needs of both user groups.
North Cowichan is considering three options.
One option is to maintain Field 3 as a seasonal off-leash area, but shorten the dog-use period to run from Nov. 1 to March 1, which would better align with the extended ball season.
A second option is to develop a new year-round dog area on Elm Street, a municipal property adjacent to Field 3 that could include space for long runs.
The third option is to relocate the off-leash area to Elliott Street, beside the skate park. This site is also being considered for a community garden and future affordable housing.
The survey asks residents to share which option they think would work best. It also asks participants to select the features they consider most important in a well-designed dog park, such as year-round access, secure fencing, shaded areas, separate zones, parking and access to water.
Residents are also invited to share any concerns they have about shared-use dog areas and to provide general feedback to help inform next steps.
North Cowichan has earmarked funding in its financial plan for the off-leash area project, describing it in a press release as a “modest budget … [that] includes funding for fencing, if necessary.”
Community members can take the survey online or speak directly with municipal staff at an upcoming Chemainus Wednesday Market (date to be confirmed) where staff will be on hand to answer questions and gather feedback.
North Cowichan encourages all residents to have their say and help shape the future of public space in Chemainus.
