Washoe County Manager John Slaughter announced today that county park, Rancho San Rafael, is re-opening its pasture to off-leash dogs on Saturday, March 19, 2016.
“Rancho San Rafael’s going to the dogs again, so (we’re) very happy about that,” Slaughter said. “The pasture area will re-open for off-leash use. The pasture’s in very good shape.
“It was unfortunate that we had to do that, but it was something that has now proven to be very beneficial to the pasture,” he added.
County officials said that they will have an opening celebration on Saturday with more details forthcoming.
The county closed the area, after consulting range and pasture management experts, June 8, 2015 because of drought conditions.
“Washoe County understands this will be an inconvenience for the many people who use the pasture, but for the long-term viability of the resource, this is the best option,” Commissioner Kitty Jung said last year.
