C EUGENE/ <br /> September 10, 2003 <br /> CONTACT: <br /> • Therese Picado, Parks and Open Space Public Information Specialist, 682-4814 or 682- <br /> 4800 <br /> • Chris Girard, Volunteers in Parks Coordinator, 682-4845, 915-5242 (cell) <br /> FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE <br /> VOLUNTEERS PREPARE DOG PARK FOR WINTER <br /> On Saturday, September 13, from 9 a.m. to noon, the City's Volunteers in Parks <br /> program and the Alton Baker dog park volunteer group invite all dog lovers to help prepare the <br /> popular off-leash area for winter. The work involves shoring up gravel pathways and shelter pad <br /> for the onslaught of rain that winter invariably brings and generally sprucing up the park by <br /> cutting back blackberries, weeding and cleaning up the main entry areas. The park is located off <br /> of Leo Harris Parkway, behind Autzen Stadium. Parking is available in lot eight. <br /> I C. <br /> For the last year and a half, a group of key volunteers, all patrons of the dog park, have <br /> worked with City parks staff to design and maintain the dog park. The group has raised funds <br /> and has organized several work parties. Volunteers in Parks Coordinator Chris Girard says the <br /> group has been instrumental in making the dog park a reality and realizing many of the more <br /> innovative features in the park, such as year-round water for the dog washdown station, dog <br /> waste bag dispensers, and drinking fountains for dogs and their owners. "I think their ability to <br /> sustain their efforts shows that dog parks are not only popular but a needed and community- <br /> supported resource." <br /> For more information, call 682-4845. <br /> ## # <br /> 46, <br />