(Re: A dirty issue worth discussing, Nelson Star, Jan. 19)
As new residents of this magnificent town of Nelson, we are happy to offer support in creating a solution to help manage the increase of dog feces in recreational areas throughout the community. Being the owners of two large dogs, we have recreated in many places throughout the lower mainland with our best companions.
Firstly, we would like to commend our community for having such a great problem. The reality that residents and visitors are out recreating with their dogs is a strong indication of a healthy community. Recent studies concluded that social interaction has the biggest impact on human life expectancy and happiness.
The fact that many humans choose to have canine companions creates a dynamic in which recreation spaces will be regularly inhabited by them. Dog friendly communities make healthy residents and attract a wide spectrum of tourists.
Keeping recreation areas free of dog feces is a common challenge throughout communities within our province. The communities of Port Moody, Langley and Surrey have all had their challenges keeping recreation spaces clear of dog feces and have implemented solutions. These communities are managing the issue by offering dog waste bins strategically placed throughout highly recreated areas.
Financing for the dog waste bins and the service to maintain them is paid for through an increase to the annual dog licence renewal fee. As a resident and dog owner, we are happy to pay an additional fee to have access to dispose of our dogs waste.
Mountain Station would be an ideal place to trial the use and effectiveness of dog waste bins. The responsibility of disposing dog feces is completely on the owner and is a part of dog ownership, however, we are firm believers that if given the opportunity and it’s convenient enough the majority of dog owners will do the right thing and dispose of their dogs feces properly. As an innovative community, perhaps in the future we can contemplate powering street lamps with dog feces as they are doing in the U.K.
Looking forward to being part of the solution!
Artur Gryz & Kirsten MacDonald
Nelson