For the City Times

PORT EDWARDS – After more than a year of searching, a local nonprofit has secured a location for a dog park in the Wisconsin Rapids area.

“Friends of Scentrail Bark Community Park Inc. has formed a partnership with the village of Port Edwards to create a dog park within the village’s Ripple Creek Park. The village board approved a resolution for the creation of the park at its (Dec. 1) meeting,” a Scentrail release stated.

“The nonprofit organization is comprised of about 20 volunteers who have been meeting since the city of Wisconsin Rapids closed Tails ‘n Trails dog park in September 2019. After researching available locations within the city and in nearby municipalities in south Wood County, the group was approached by the village of Port Edwards about the partnership this fall.

“The northwest corner of Ripple Creek Park provides an ideal location for a dog park. It is secluded from residential areas, has available parking and connects to miles of walking trails throughout the village.

“The next step in making the dog park a reality is raising the necessary funds for fencing, seating and pet waste containers. Initial estimates put the cost at about $30,000.

To donate, visit paypal.me/FriendsofSBCP, email SBCPTreasurer@gmail.com, or contact Friends of Scentrail Bark Community Park, Attn: Treasurer, PO Box 272, Wisconsin Rapids, WI, 54495, noting “Dog Park Donation.”

To learn more, find “FSBCP.WIRapids” on Facebook or email scentrailbarkpark@gmail.com.