Tuesday, December 12, 2023 | View in browser
Dog Beach Remains Open Through Winter
Safety regulations are now in effect
Dear Dog Beach Patrons,
As the winter months approach, we’re updating you on weather conditions and their potential impacts on our beloved community amenities, particularly the Dog Beach. The City is dedicated to ensuring the continued availability of the Dog Beach throughout the winter season. However, it is crucial for everyone to be aware of and adhere to the regulations in place during this time. The use of the Dog Beach is at your own risk and should be used with extra caution during the winter months.
Snow/Ice
Snowfall poses potential risks to the safety of our community members and their dogs. Accumulating snow and subsequent icy conditions may create hazardous situations at the Dog Beach, leading to slips, falls, and potential injuries for both pets and their owners. Please exercise caution.
Salt
To maintain the environmental integrity of Lake Michigan, it is imperative that no salt be used in or around the Dog Beach area. The City of Evanston, along with other municipalities along the lake, are working together to keep chloride (an element in salt) out of Lake Michigan. This measure includes NOT using “pet friendly” or chloride free ice melts. No City staff member will salt the sidewalks of the Dog Beach. If any type of salt or deicing material is applied by a Dog Beach user, the City will close the Dog Beach for the remainder of winter. Salt can introduce pollutants into the lake and the surrounding dune areas. We appreciate your cooperation in helping us protect this valuable natural resource.
Gate and Fence
Please be aware that the gate combination lock may be susceptible to damage in extreme cold and wet weather conditions and may be susceptible to freezing. Within reason, City staff will continue to maintain the gate and combination lock. Repetitive malfunctions and damage may result in closure of the Dog Beach. Your vigilance is crucial in ensuring the security and accessibility of the Dog Beach throughout the winter. Please do not use any force to open the gate and report any issues promptly to 311 by calling/texting 847-448-4311.
Ice Shelf
For your safety, please keep off the ice shelf. Walking or playing on the ice can be hazardous and pose risks to individuals and their pets.
Dog Waste Removal
As a part of winter preparation, the orange dog waste buckets will be removed by Friday, Dec. 15. This measure is taken to prevent potential hazards during winter storms and to avoid the risk of the buckets being swept into Lake Michigan by winds and high waves. The waste containers on the wooden posts at the north and south entrances will remain available for public use. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.
2024 Dog Beach Passes
We anticipate that 2024 Dog Beach passes will be available beginning the week of February 19, with the new season commencing on March 1, 2024. Please ensure your pet is up-to-date on all required vaccinations and that you have obtained the 2024 City of Evanston pet license.
Respiratory Disease in Dogs
There have been reports of a potential new respiratory pathogen circulating in dogs. While there has been heightened concern amongst veterinarians in Illinois, there have been no confirmed cases in the state at this time, per the Illinois Department of Agriculture.
The Cook County Department of Animal and Rabies Control (ARC) is the regulatory agency that enforces dog-friendly area rules and regulations and provides guidance throughout Cook County. ARC has informed the City that at this time there is no recommendation to close public dog parks. As always, please use your own discretion and best judgment when choosing to visit areas with high dog traffic, such as the Dog Beach, where dogs are in close contact with each other.
Stay informed by visiting the Illinois Department of Agriculture website, which will be updated as new information emerges.
Closures and Communications
The City reserves the right to close the Dog Beach at any time to ensure the well-being of all community members and their dogs. The decision to close the beach may be made in response to various factors, including weather conditions, safety concerns, and compliance with established rules.
In the event of a closure, an email will be sent to Dog Beach email subscribers and a sign will be posted at the Dog Beach entrance.
Your commitment to following the winter rules outlined for the Dog Beach will contribute to the wellbeing of our community. As a reminder, dogs are not allowed on any other beach and basketball or tennis courts. All dogs must be leashed while in City parks.
As an additional option, passes may be purchased for the use of Pooch Park in Skokie. Learn more.
If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact the City's Parks and Recreation Department by calling 847-448-4311, or simply dialing 3-1-1 while in Evanston.
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