Why Must You Leash Your Dog?

• Dogs are perceived by wildlife as predators.
• Many ground nesting birds are in long-term decline on a regional basis, and they are heavily distressed by dogs and may abandon their nests if disturbed.
• Waterfowl found in streams, ponds, marshes, and vernal pools can be frightened away from their nests by a wading dog
• Egg masses, deposited in vernal pools and marshes by wood frogs, spring peepers, and various species of salamanders, can be destroyed by a wading dog

It’s Common Sense and Common Courtesy:

• Owners must prevent their dogs from charging and/or jumping on other hikers (especially young children) or other dogs.
• Dogs must be controlled to stay on trails so as not to disturb flora and fauna habitat.
• Owners must retrieve and carry out dog waste. (Leaving a dog waste bag at the trailhead is not considered “carrying out.”)