People for Off-Leash Recreation (POLR) was formed as a result of the Masterplanning process for Luther Burbank Park on Mercer Island, WA, which subjected the existing Off -Leash Area (OLA) in that park to potential reduction or even elimination. We originally organized as the Mercer Island Dog Owners Group, or MIDOG, but because Luther Burbank had previously been a King County Park, many of its OLA patrons were not from Mercer Island. When it came time to formally incorporate, it was decided that no geographic designation should be included in the name, thus we incorporated as “People for Off-Leash Recreation”. Any member who resides on Mercer Island, is considered to belong to our Mercer Island chapter: MIDOG.

POLR is currently attempting to formalize an agreement with the Mercer Island Parks and Recreation Department which recognizes our stewardship of the OLA. While the agreement is still pending, we have already begun working with Park officials, by developing appropriate rules for visitors to the OLA, and providing input on fencing changes that have already started to reduce the conflicts between dog owners and other park visitors. In addition, we have also organized the dog owners to participate in work projects that have enhanced the OLA, and we plan to make this a regular occurance.

The Masterplanning for Luther Burbank concluded with no plan whatsoever for the OLA! Fortunately, there was a brief statement committing to the retention of the OLA as a permanent park feature, but beyond that, there were no concrete changes in size or configuration adopted. Working within the confines of this mandate (or lack thereof) we hope to actively participate as partners with the Parks and Rec Department in further development of the OLA.

POLR mission statement:

People for Off-Leash Recreation seeks to protect, enhance and expand off leash recreation oportunities for responsible dog owners, recognizing that off leash interactions and exercise are crucial for the socialization and physical well being of our dogs. Through advocacy and education, our goal is respectful coexistence with other park users, by training, supervising and maintaining appropriate conduct of dogs off leash in designated areas.

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