BOISE, Idaho — With chillier weather heading into the Treasure Valley, three Boise parks are beginning their seasonal dog off-leash program.
The Boise Parks and Recreation announced Tuesday that they are bringing back the season dog off-leash program at Ann Morrison Park, Optimist Youth Sports Complex and Simplot Sports Complex.
With fall sports coming to an end, these parks provide "the perfect environment to take your four-legged friend out for some exercise and play," said Boise Parks and Recreation in a news release.
Off-leash season starts on the following days:
Ann Morrison & Optimist Youth Sports Complex: Friday, Nov. 1 (ends on Feb. 28, 2025)
Simplot Sports Complex: Thursday, Nov. 21 (ends Feb. 15, 2025)
The parks department reminds park users that the off-leash use is from sunrise to sunset, with the exception of Boise River Greenbelt paths, parking lots, roads and playgrounds.
At Ann Morrison, Together Treasure Valley Dog Island remains open year round, the parks department said, but water levels in the surrounding ponds has been lowered. Please be cautious as the ice accumulated in that area may be thing and unsafe. Warning signs will be posted.
Boise Parks and Rec also said that owners must pick up after their pets to keep parks clean. Also, this is a great time to obtain or renew your animal license for your pet dog.
Parks and Rec spokesperson Bonnie Shelton said this program is a great way to utilize space that goes unused.
"It's a great way for us to activate these park spaces that are generally used for sports and leagues through those warmer months, but then in the winter time, there isn't that use. So we can kind of change and activate that area by allowing people to come with their dogs, have them run off leash," said Shelton.
Another reason for the off-leash program is to help move the goose population around.
Shelton said the department hears about geese each year and allowing dogs to go off leash helps keep the foul from getting comfortable in the parks.
She also shared a reminder to help keep the parks enjoyable for all.
"Our crews do a great job of keeping our parks really beautiful and clean, but you can help us out by picking up after your pet. It really is that caring nature that we have here in the city of Boise. We all love our parks. We all love our open spaces, and that's something that all pet owners can do to really help out and keep our parks a clean. Great place to go," Shelton said.
More information about the off-leash program are available on the City of Boise website.