The Great Falls Dog Park will be closed for the next three weeks for turf repair

The Great Falls Park and Recreation Department has announced the popular Pacific Steel & Recycling Trailside Dog Park will be closed for the next three weeks for annual turf repair. The closure begins Monday will last through June 9.

"High use at the Pacific Steel & Recycling Trailside Dog Park has caused water and tear damage," a department news release states. "During the closure, the park will be fertilized, overseeded, and irrigated. (We) allow approximately three weeks for the turf to rejuvenate and recover. The park is tentatively set to reopen on Monday, June 10."

Located at 800 River Drive North adjacent to River's Edge Trail, the park features separate fenced areas for big dogs and small dogs. These off leash areas are divided by a plaza with benches and a pavilion. Waste disposal bags and garbage cans are readily available, and drinking fountains for both dogs and humans is also in place at the dog park.

The Great Falls City Commission approved the creation of a dog park in December 2007. The Pacific Steel & Recycling Trailside Dog Park opened in July 2009 and has since become one the city's most popular destinations for dog owners - and for people who just enjoy watching dogs romp, run, and retrieve

Volunteers from the Animal Foundation of Great Falls, located within the Maclean-Cameron Animal Adoption Center, work with the city to help maintain the park.

"The City appreciates the public’s patience and cooperation during the closure," the news release states. "For questions regarding the repair project, contact Kevin Vining, Parks Manager at 771-1265."

This article originally appeared on Great Falls Tribune: Dog park closing for three weeks for turf repair