Salmon Arm council considers BC SPCA dog park proposal

The BC SPCA has proposed a partnership with the City of Salmon Arm to develop an off-leash dog park on a 1.7-hectare property located at 1121 Hwy. 97B SE. The land was originally purchased by the SPCA with the intention of building a new animal shelter, but those plans are currently on hold.

Under the proposed five-year lease agreement, the city would be responsible for property taxes, insurance, and maintenance of the park. The SPCA suggested a preliminary cost estimate of approximately $100,000, plus volunteer labor, to implement necessary fencing, entry gates, and a parking lot. Because the property is situated within the Agricultural Land Reserve, the city will need to consult the Agricultural Land Commission regarding the project's viability.

Salmon Arm City Council has voted to include the proposal in its 2027 budget deliberations. Council members noted the community interest in such facilities but emphasized the need for thorough budgetary evaluation and consideration of fencing requirements due to the property's proximity to the highway.