OMSP working on dog park, renovations for event space

By LEAH INGRAM EAGLE

After announcing the closing of the demonstration farm in April, Oak Mountain State Park is working to redevelop the barn for more event space, while also adding a dog park.

OMSP officials reported an increase in the number of visitors arriving with dogs, and the addition of a dog park will make it easier for owners to interact with their pets in a safe environment. The state park has leash laws in place, so the new dog park area will allow dogs to run and play off leash, said Scottie Jackson, central district superintendent for Alabama State Parks.

“The main concern whenever we are looking at plans moving forward at the park, we are constantly taking into account the needs and desires of our guests and the best interest and health of the animals,” Jackson said. “As our collection of animals began to age, it made sense for them to go and enjoy happy retirement homes.”

Jackson said she knows closing the farm, which has been around over 50 years, would be disappointing to many longtime visitors, but it was best for the animals and the long-term future of Oak Mountain State Park.

“The demonstration farm has been a beloved facility at the park, and I think there certainly is some sadness to see it come to an end,” Jackson said. “At the same time, we’re also excited about creating a new amenity at the park for our visitors to enjoy.”

When it came to looking for appropriate homes for the animals, Jackson said all of the families that took the animals in were vetted by staff and had knowledge and experience. They all went in groups with other animals with which they were already familiar and comfortable.

The iconic red barn located near the park’s main entrance will remain and will be renovated to become a rental venue for parties, weddings and other events.

“We want to freshen the space and make it better for our guests by adding additional amenities to it and give it a facelift to make it the best it can be,” Jackson said.

While the process is still in the planning phase, she did confirm that the entrance to the dog park will be separate from the barn space, and there will be separate play areas for large and small dogs so they can all enjoy the park in a safe and comfortable environment.

The event space and dog park will be separated by fencing, and other new features will likely be added to the dog park over time. It will also include a small retail area for purchasing treats, toys and other items.

Other nearby areas, such as the stables and facilities for guided horseback riding, won’t be affected by the changes. There will be no fee to use the dog park after visitors pay the Oak Mountain State Park entrance fee at the gate.