Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What does the passage of Article 44 mean?
A. Article 44 is a non binding request asking the NRC to refrain from imposing any off-leash restrictions for a two year period. The passage of Article 44 at town meeting is a positive and significant first step for maintaining off-leash dog privileges. It sends a very clear message that our local government’s actions need to be based on real data and applicable science, otherwise, we do not accept them. This two year period will allow for us (and NRC) to collect real data pertinent to this decision. The spirit and intent of the Article is to reopen a dialogue with the NRC, in the hopes of finding a more acceptable scientific and fact based response.
Lastly, as always, we ask that you all continue being respectful and responsible dog owners. Working on proper dog etiquette and training our pets is an ongoing battle and now, more than ever, it is especially important to avoid conflicts of any sort. Leash up when encountering others, pick up and properly dispose of dog waste and keep your dog under control and in sight while off-leash. If you see someone miss a pick up, offer a bag and a big “thank you” for being courteous.
Thank you for doing your part in making Concord such a great place to live.
2. Are the new restrictions only on town owned land or do they apply to other conservation land?
A. These restrictions only apply to town owned lands. Areas affected include Punkatasset Woods, Mattison Field, and White Pond. Restrictions are also in effect on all town owned agricultural lands due to state regulations. Land owned by the Concord Land Trust (CLT) and others are NOT affected.
3. Estabrook Woods consists of areas with different landowners. A fair amount is not owned by Harvard, are we expecting the leash laws to effect these other areas?
A: As of late June, Harvard has said that they plan to install signs announcing closure of it’s 672 acres to off leash use. Middlesex School has not announced what it’s intentions are, but there is an effort by a small group to encourage all to close their access. Some private landowners have installed signs saying “closed to off leash use”.
4. ls the current closure of the Estabrook entrance even legal?
A: This is NOT closed to dog walkers or hikers, but it is leash only. Because the woods accessed from this road are on private land, the owners have the right to impose these restrictions anywhere off the road. But there is an ongoing debate over who owns the access road into Estabrook Woods. The Town of Concord claims that the road is still under it’s control, but an abutter claims it is theirs. These legal issues may have to play out in court.