Sept. 10, 2012. Beech Mountain’s new Bark Park was a big hit as it hosted the town’s sixth annual dog show Labor Day weekend. A total of 48 dogs competed and those four dozen furry competitors drew quite a crowd. Nearly 300 people watched dogs prance through the big dog pen that was erected this past spring. The show was a fundraiser for Friends for Life and the Bark Park itself, with the $1,080 raised to be split between the two organizations. Every dog went home with a ribbon, while some took honors in categories like “The Most Spots” and “The longest Tail.”
However, few of the competitors and spectators realize the community effort that it took to bring the Bark Park to fruition. Parks & Recreation Director Daniel Scagnelli says that an ad hoc committee was formed to help raise roughly $20,000 in private donations, with help from the Beech Mountain Club, which was used to fully fund the park to date. Nancy Brunzos, head of the committee, says that “it was unbelievable how it all came together in such a group effort and how supportive folks seem to be of the park.”
The park currently sits on Beech Mountain town property and expands the new streetscape. With new funds, the park committee hopes to add additional benches and picnic tables, a pet friendly ADA accessible water fountain, agility/play features for the dogs, and construction of a hiking trail to circumnavigate the park. Just as the community came together to raise funds and provide a location, many residents find that it is a way to connect with other Beech Mountain residents. James True, a full-time resident, said he has “easily met more people at the Bark Park since it opened last winter than in the 5 years I’ve lived on Beech Mountain. It is by far my favorite new addition to Beech.”
If you want to check out Beech Mountain’s new Bark Park, it is located at the far northeast corner of the “Kite Field” near Town Hall on Beech Mountain. All dogs and owners are welcome.
For more information visit http://beechrecreation.org/parks/bark-park-page, or call 828-387-3003.
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