City adjusting off-leash areas to address safety

These five designated off-leash areas total 58 hectares of functional, easily accessible space. Medicine Hat now has a ratio of approximately 8.5 hectares per 10,000 residents. In most cases, this quantity is above average for municipalities.

What led to the decision

The decision to change designated off-leash areas was made based on public engagement and feedback which indicated a need to prioritize safety, clarity, and predictability for all trail users.

• Safety: Residents stated they want to feel safe when using trails, parks and open spaces. There has been a reported decrease in trail use due to the unpredictability of off-leash animals.
• Clarity and predictability: Residents indicated a need for more clarity on which spaces are on and off-leash, maps, enforcement, and what to expect when entering on and off-leash areas.

Most dog owners are responsible and ensure their pets behave safely and responsibly in parks, trails, and open spaces. However, public engagement uncovered significant accounts of residents who had experienced or witnessed severe incidents on the trails involving off-leash dogs. Victims of these incidents included children, people on mobility scooters or with other accessibility requirements, other vulnerable trail users, and wildlife. Engagement also uncovered that residents often under-report incidents. The number and severity of incidents is likely higher than the number indicated through recorded City service requests and Medicine Hat Police Services statistics.

“We recognize that there will be mixed perspectives from residents on this decision, but the need to prioritize public safety is clear,” said Scott Richter, Acting Director of Parks and Recreation with the City of Medicine Hat. “We all take pride in our extensive network of trails, parks and open spaces woven throughout the community. These off-leash area changes are the most effective way to address critical issues and ensure these beautiful spaces are safe and welcoming for all to enjoy.”

Why these spaces were chosen

These spaces were identified based on their suitability and current popularity to ensure safe use for all. They are wide open with many access points and good site lines. This allows for a more predictable experience and assists in reducing the chance of high-risk incidents caused by unexpected encounters. These areas are all easy for residents to access and navigate and will be clearly delineated with signage.

What to expect moving forward

Signage will be clearly displayed when entering and exiting off-leash areas. Clear signage ensures predictability, and that all users are comfortable and confident when enjoying these spaces. This better manages all residents’ expectations on safety and overall experience when using these spaces. If no signage is present, residents are in an on-leash area.

Visit medicinehat.ca/offleash to learn more about these upcoming changes, past public engagement efforts, enforcement, and what to expect.

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media@medicinehat.ca