Dogs now allowed on BX Creek Trail after board support

Jun 23, 2023 | 1:00 PM

UPDATE: June 23, 2023

For the first time, dogs are now allowed on the section of BX Creek Trail between Star and Tillicum Roads, but they must on a leash.

At their meeting this week, the Regional District of North Okanagan board approved a staff and Greater Vernon Advisory Committee recommendation to make the change which staff tell Vernon Matters, has now taken effect and signage on the trail will be updated.

Staff said that was the only section of the local trail system, other than nature reserves, where dogs were not allowed, and there was strong public demand for it.

Comments on social media wonder if there will be enforcement of the on-leash rule by RDNO dog control.

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Dog owners may soon have another local nature trail to take their pets for a stroll.

Dogs are currently not allowed — and never have been — on BX Creek Trail between Star and Tillicum roads, but a recommendation to the Regional District of North Okanagan board suggests that be changed to allow on-leash dogs.

“The BX Creek Trail is currently the only section of trail within the Greater Vernon Trails & Natural Spaces Service, other than those located within a nature reserve, that is designated No Dogs Permitted,” a RDNO staff report said.

“The current use by members of the public and their dogs would indicate that there is a strong public demand for this trail to designated dogs on-leash.”

Staff added there appears to be no legal obstacles preventing the change in designation, which would only require alterations to the trailhead signage.

“The change in designation to Dog On-Leash would have no impact on the current operating budget and would reduce the current demand on RDNO dog control,” the report from Parks and Recreation Manager Andy Affleck stated.

The Greater Vernon Advisory Committee is also recommending the RDNO support the change which is up for discussion at the board’s June 21 meeting.

by Pete McIntyre

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