Who Let The Dogs Out?

Lutz Elementary students and eager canine companions joined Hillsborough County Commissioner Ken Hagan in a ribbon cutting ceremony on October 29, 2007, marking the official opening of Carolyn Meeker Dog Park.



Lutz Guv'na Michele Northrup presided over the ceremony, and proclaimed October 29 "Earth Force Day" in honor of the Suncoast Earth Force, which provided resources and training during the students' quest to make the community dog park a reality.



The dog park is the brainchild of teacher Judy Alvarez' 5th grade students at Lutz Elementary, who investigated the potential negative impact of pet waste disposal on water quality during an Earth Force project. After assessing the need for a community dog park in Lutz, students partnered with Commissioner Ken Hagan to make Carolyn Meeker Park a sustainable and dog-friendly facility.



In addition to providing plenty of space for frisky canines, the park will ultimately feature a dog wash, a public restroom, picnic shelters, and parking. Lutz Elementary students will monitor water quality at the dog park on an ongoing basis.



Earth Force is a nonprofit organization committed to engaging young people as active citizens who improve their environment and their communities. This year, Suncoast Earth Force will provide training, support, and materials to more than 1000 students in Tampa Bay's schools.