Coquitlam dog lovers can now lend a hand to keep their local pooch parks clean and safe through the new Adopt-a-Dog Park program.
COQUITLAM, B.C., April 20, 2021 – Coquitlam dog lovers can now lend a hand to keep their local pooch parks clean and safe.
Through its new Adopt-a-Dog Park program, the City is looking for volunteers to take ownership of one of Coquitlam’s six off-leash areas, helping to keep it free of litter and reporting any problems to the City. Similar to the existing Adopt-a-Park and Adopt-a-Street programs, it’s an opportunity to get out in the fresh air and engage in a healthy activity while helping to enhance Coquitlam’s outdoor spaces.
The City recognizes volunteers on signs in the areas they adopt. Volunteers can also request a record of their hours, making the program an option for students seeking graduation credits.
Individuals or Groups Can Volunteer
Individuals, families, classes or other groups are invited to sign up to adopt one of Coquitlam’s off-leash areas, located at Bramble, Glen, Leigh, Miller, Mundy and Ridge parks.
Volunteers are expected to visit at least once a week, or monthly in winter. Typical activities include picking up litter or garbage, removing branches or large rocks, and reporting vandalism, hazards, missing or damaged signs, or other matters that require attention. Volunteers are not expected to deal directly with other park users or put themselves in jeopardy.
The City supplies gloves, litter pickers, garbage bags, vests and flagging tape. Training is also provided on safe litter pickup, dealing with sharps and hazardous waste, storm awareness and wildlife safety.
All COVID-19 safety protocols are observed, with orientations taking place by phone, video chat or other ways that allow for physical distancing.
Guardian approval is required for any volunteers under age 18.
For information about the program, visit www.coquitlam.ca/adoptadogpark.
Adopt an Outdoor Space in Coquitlam
Coquitlam offers opportunities to adopt outdoor spaces and amenities such as parks and trails, streets and – most recently – dog parks. Volunteers clean up litter in their designated area at least once a week (monthly in winter) with training and equipment provided by the City. They also serve as the City’s eyes and ears, reporting problems, hazards or vandalism they see along the way. The programs are a great way to help keep Coquitlam clean and safe while getting some exercise and fresh air. Visit www.coquitlam.ca/adoptapark (includes Adopt-a-Trail), www.coquitlam.ca/adoptastreet or www.coquitlam.ca/adoptadogpark for information or to sign up.
Media contact
Wendy Wiederick
Parks Operations Manager
City of Coquitlam
604-927-4386 (4FUN)
prcs_info@coquitlam.ca