The Home Run Dog Park officially re-opened Friday May, 29th 2020, after an approximate 10 week closure because of the Michigan Statewide shutdown for COVID-19.
In the early part of March, the Friends Calhoun County Dog Parks Committee reviewed the condition of the park and had began planning strategies for resolving some of the muddy areas near the West entrance, and other sections of the park. Then the unexpected shutdown occurred, and planning was put on hold.
However, the grass in most of the park seems to have recovered during the time period of inactivity.
The muddy area around the West entrance has filled in with grass, and many of the barren sections that were created when the water lines were installed last summer, have also begun to fill in with green.
The committee has been consulting with professional lawn and garden experts from the Liela Arboretum, and have plans to for additional seeding in the autumn months. Because of the recent closure, the planning committee has agreed to post-pone any maintence closure dates for the dog park until after summer, to let people just enjoy the park.
The City of Battle Creek mows the park in the mornings approximately once a week during the summer months. To help us maintained the park, please do not leave balls, frisbies and other dog toys lying in the grass when you are done playing for the day. When they are left around, they can be struck by a lawn mower and turn into litter. The fragments of these balls and plastic items can be tempting for some dogs to eat, and could make them ill. Harder pieces of plastic can potentially cut dogs feet as well. So if you find a lost ball or toy lying around, place it in the pavilion area. The best practice is to take your toys with you before you leave, or if they are broken, discard them in the trash bins in the pavilion.
The wonderful weather on re-opening weekend combined with the green grass makes for a great play time experience with your furry friends! Remember to adhere to the dog park rules, and have fun!
