Old Forge Greater Community Gains New Dog Park!
The idea of creating a dog park in Old Forge came from many conversations among visitors, residents, Town Board members and LivingADK(CAP-21). We all love the idea of a safe place that dogs and their “humans” can socialize and exercise!
During the latter part of 2021, Councilman Kurt Gardner initiated conversation among the Town of Webb board to identify possible Town land that made the most sense requiring the least amount of land disturbance and was convenient to dog owners. As a result of several site evaluations between Board Members and Webb Highway Superintendent Casey Crofut, it was determined that a portion of the triangle piece of land at the bottom of Joy Tract Road, across from the ice-skating rink, made the most sense. A committee was then formed to take the project from an idea to reality. Committee members Supervisor Bonnie Baker, Councilman Kurt Gardner, Wagging it, in the ADK’s store owner Judy Lonergan and LivingADK commenced discussion on park layout, budget and fundraising needs. LivingADK agreed to hold all donated funds during the project period allowing all donations to be tax deductible.
In late 2021, Judy Lonergan happened to have breakfast locally with long-time close friend, Patrick Conklin whose family has enjoyed the Adirondacks for generations. Patrick’s father, Charles was born in Utica and is married to Joan. They’ll be celebrating their 64th anniversary next February. This blessed union created 7 sons who are all married, 15 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren with a 7th great-grandchild on the way. Charles started spending summers in Old Forge in the 1950’s working at several local restaurants including the Knotty Pine prior to meeting his wife. Today, 3rd and 4th generation Conklin’s continue to visit Old Forge enjoying the Adirondacks and all they have to offer. After discussing the Dog Park project with Judy, Patrick and his wife Laurie, both dog lovers, agreed to make a sizable donation to the project in honor of Charles Conklin and his love of the Adirondacks. This generous donation, along with a sizable contribution from Judy and Paul Lonergan, will be used for the purchase and installation of the fencing which will include a separate internal section for small dogs to socialize apart from the large dogs. In appreciation for the Conklin’s generous donation, the dog park will be named “The Conklin Family Dog Park”. The town will purchase and install all signage, a picnic table and pet refuse station for the park attendees. Hours of access will be from dawn to dusk. We hope to have the dog park open sometime this summer.
All donated funds will be used to purchase weather-resistant seating benches and canine agility equipment from “Gyms for Dogs” Natural Dog Park Products. Anyone interested in making a donation toward the purchase of needed benches and agility equipment, may write a check payable to CAP-21/Dog Park Project, PO Box 642, Old Forge, NY 13420 or you may go to our website at LivingADK.org and make a donation to the Dog Park Project via Credit Card. You will receive a formal tax deductible acknowledgment for your donation. For a list of agility equipment identified to fit within the size of the dog park or any other questions, please contact LivingADK at 315.369.3353.
