As biologists, conservationists, and dog lovers, we were dismayed to see a front-page photo (Jan. 7) of an unleashed dog on a boardwalk at Fitzgerald Lake Conservation Area (FLCA). In addition to being against the law on city-owned property, dogs roaming off-leash can be damaging to wildlife, the environment, other dogs, and people.
FLCA is managed by the all-volunteer Broad Brook Coalition (BBC) in collaboration with the city of Northampton. This nature preserve offers miles of popular hiking trails through scenic woods and wetlands. However, a recurring problem is that some dog-walkers do not leash their dogs. In a recent survey with the open-ended question “What frustrates you about FLCA?” over 50% of the 134 people who answered this question spontaneously cited off-leash dogs and dog waste.
Many people are fearful of using our shared jewel of a conservation area because of unpredictable dogs. Off-leash dogs can be a threat to seniors, families with young children, and others. Even friendly dogs can be frightening to people who have previously been injured or harassed by dogs. Leashed dogs also may be harmed by off-leash dogs, as these interactions are surprising and not planned. And wildlife may harm off-leash dogs that run off-trail, where a dog can encounter bears and porcupines.
Meanwhile, wildlife can be harmed by dogs racing off trail, potentially chasing or injuring them, and leaving behind a scent that disrupts wildlife behavior. Free-roaming dogs also spread dog waste that is harmful to the environment. Feces add nitrogen and phosphorus to the water, as well as harmful bacteria. This promotes growth of toxic algae that can be harmful to dogs.
Walking your dog is a great way to give your pet and yourself some good exercise and to enjoy the beautiful outdoors. If you think off-leash exercise is important for your dog, we respectfully request that you go to places where off-leash dogs are welcomed.
For the wildlife, the people, and the dogs who are following the law, please observe city regulations and keep your dog leashed at Fitzgerald Lake.
Christina White, Broad Brook Coalition board
Florence