Bowmont Park off-leash options divide residents in northwest Calgary

Opinions are divided as the city gets feedback on its draft plans for the off-leash area of Bowmont Park in northwest Calgary.

"I'm concerned about the loss of some parts of the off-leash area," said Anita Frederiksen, who enjoys daily walks with her dog Jack in Bowmont Park, one of the city's most popular natural areas.

"Dogs are crazy happy there," said Frederiksen at an open house at the Silver Springs community centre.

In 2004, city council approved the Bowmont Park Management Plan, which was designed to protect areas of environmental significance, while ensuring sustainable public access.

All three of the city's proposals would see smaller off-leash areas.

City spokesperson Chris Manderson says this is not about targeting dog owners, but about balancing environmental protection with other uses.

"Really it just comes down to making good choices about how we manage a pretty good, significant asset here in this city," Manderson said.

Officials say there has been some river bank erosion due to flooding and foot and dog traffic, as well as damage to vegetation and fragmentation of habitat caused by the proliferation of informal trails.

Some residents question why the city would provide any off-leash areas for dogs, if the 165-hectare park is such an asset.

"You can't have a natural environment park anywhere with a lot of dogs running. You just can't have the two hand-in-hand," said Jamie Podlubny.

The city will review the feedback before returning with a revamped plan by spring 2016.