Leash-Free Volunteers
Through the efforts of Leash-Free Halton Hills volunteers, working with The Town of Halton Hills Parks and Recreations, maintenance issues at each park are routinely inspected and repaired as required. Volunteers monitor such things as condition of fencing, picnic tables, lighting, shelters and ground coverings.
Some of the maintenance items require special attention from volunteers in order to make the off-leash experience more enjoyable for our canine companions. Each spring, volunteers get together at each Off-Leash Park to do a Park Cleanup where we rake up the dead grass and leaves, fill holes, remove garbage etc. that has eluded our care over the winter months. During this cleanup, inspections of the fencing, picnic tables, etc. are also undertaken to ensure safety is maintained.
Further to this cleanup, monthly updates are sent to The Parks and Recreation Department, who then monitor park conditions including signage, lighting, grass cutting, tree maintenance and garbage removal. The parking lots are also monitored for cleanliness and damage.
Our biggest volunteer outing is the regular spreading of the woodchips. The Town of Halton Hills provide us with truckloads of woodchips to re-energize our ground cover and improve footing, reducing the mud and water holes in the park. Signs are posted in the Parks prior to deliveries asking for volunteers to help spread the piles. In addition to improving the Parks, this is a great opportunity to meet fellow users, renew old acquaintances and for students, earn valuable volunteer hours.
Going forward, volunteers also brainstorm and organize fundraising efforts towards the betterment of existing locations including equipment, improvements and future projects. All members are welcome and invited to attend our monthly meetings held alternately in Acton and Georgetown. Watch for postings on our Message Boards for the next meeting.