e-4280 (Environment)

Petition to the Government of Canada

• The NCC Green Belt Trails 24 and 27 are adjacent to significant residential developments in west Ottawa with many responsible dog owners;
• The inclusion of these trails in Schedule 1 of the NCC Animal Regulations limits the use of these trails for dogs on leash to April 15 through November 30;
• The rationale for banning dogs on leash during the winter months (December 1 through April 14) provided by the NCC states that this restriction is for "conservation" purposes;
• The "conservation" protocol provided by the NCC refers to Gatineau Park which is a distinctly different habitat than the Urban Ottawa Green Belt;
• Signage for these trails designates them as "ski trails", but makes no mention of "conservation" concerns;
• This limitation on year-round use now places an undue and unnecessary restriction on the use and full enjoyment of the Green Belt by residents of the National Capital;
• Moving trails 24 and 27 from limited access to year-round access will have insignificant, if any, impact on conservation; and
• Adding trails 24 and 27 to year-round access will greatly increase the ability of all residents of the National Capital to fully enjoy their Green Belt both with and without their dogs on leash.