Concord Unleashed was formed in response to the NRC’s proposal to close Punkatasset, Mattison and other conservation lands to off-leash dog use. We believe that these areas can be kept as places for all users including dogs and owners to enjoy and still be maintained with little or no ill effects to the wildlife, flora and fauna. Through a combination of education and better facilities, there can be a balanced and fair approach, resolving the concerns of the NRC without taking away this wonderful privilege. Over 1100 Concord residents agree and have signed our petition in support.
Closing these town conservation areas will create much greater stress on the few remaining places where dogs can go off leash. The problem will not only be shifted, but it will be intensified and the NIMBY syndrome is likely to spread. The NRC states that there is still 70% of the town conservation land available, but once you subtract the agricultural use, inaccessible properties, and Estabrook Woods, it is actually closer to only 30%.
Many in Concord cherish and look forward to the unique experience provided by walking in the woods with our beloved pets. The daily exercise is good for both owner and dog, offering therapeutic value as well. It is a large part of what makes our town so unique. The problems are far from insurmountable, and can be easily solved.
There are already leash restrictions on Mattison Field during the Bobolink nesting period, which the vast majority respect and observe. There are bags at the entrances, but no trash receptacles. However, there is an offer to endow a fund to service these, so this is no longer an issue.
And some simple etiquette guidelines could solve the issues that sometimes arise when encountering another person, a leashed dog or a horse. Leashing up when in doubt, would keep any problems from potentially escalating. If the dog community as a group were to work at educating and reminding their fellow owners, many of these problems could be eliminated. There is no reason to punish the hundreds of considerate and responsible owners for the actions of a few.
We are good neighbors, who care about the environment and want to maintain these positive relations. We also want to continue enjoying the woods as generations have before us. And we are more than willing to make a serious effort to keep these privileges. Unfortunately, the NRC has decided against giving us this chance to share in this common responsibility. Having been shut out by them, we are now forced to work on our own to maintain this much beloved form of adult recreation. We will continue to fight and work at keeping the remaining areas we have left and as always, practice and promote good pet etiquette. Thank you for your support and please feel free to contact us with any questions.