Large dog area (Click on photos to enlarge)

The Atlantic Parks and Recreation Department’s Board of Directors, Monday, agreed to set Friday, July 31st as the date for the grand opening of the Buck Creek Dog Park, located on the northwest side of the Schildberg Recreation Area. Parks and Rec Director Roger Herring said fencing around the park is installed, and the Eagle Scout project for dog playground equipment is in-place.

Small dog area

Assistant Parks Director Seth Staashelm said the equipment, includes a tunnel on both sides (of the small and large dog areas) with scrap plastic by Plastics Professionals in Atlantic, and mulch, to prevent the growth of weeds. There’s weaving poles, an A-ramp for dogs to climb, hurdles for small and large dogs, among other things. Signs, both small and large have also arrived, stating the rules and regulations. Those are set to be installed, soon.

A pergola, or sun shade, will also be erected. The July 31st Grand Opening will be an all-day event, beginning with a ribbon cutting at 10-a.m. Other activities tentatively planned for the day may include dog vaccinations by area veterinarians, Animal Shelter staff on hand for dog registration tables set up for water bottle distribution to dog owners, and more.

The Parks Board reminds persons who use the Schildberg Rec Area, that dog droppings must be picked up by owners, even if the droppings are on the grass. The exception would be in tall grass areas. Bag stations are provided around the area for that purpose.