I am continually grateful for the cooperation of agencies and the Nordic Ski Club that create and maintain the gorgeous multi-use trails in Campbell Tract and Far North Bicentennial Park. Traveling them this spring, I’ve become acutely aware of the high accumulation of dog poop on the trails. Particularly annoying is poop in the classic ski tracks. Having used that area for nearly 45 years and noting the relatively new use of the trails by bikers, I am quite certain that fat tire bikers and their dogs are contributing more than their share to this pileup of excrement. It’s unlikely bikers will agree to leash their dogs or leave them home, because it’s such a joyful experience to ride free while giving our canine friends a big piece of the fun.
There are alternatives. Bikers can carry at least two poop bags on every ride plus a secure and sanitary way to carry the filled bags. Such a biker would fill the bags on each ride, picking up random poop. The rider would not be finding their dog’s mess, but would be contributing to clean-up nonetheless. Additionally, bike shops and biker organizations should organize poop-scoop events. Dog owners who bike could show up with five-gallon buckets and shovels.
I offer to join the effort and bring our pickup to transport the mess to the transfer station. Perhaps a couple volunteers with strong backs and sturdy rubber gloves would help me unload it. Join the conversation and let’s get on it.
Thank you for this opportunity for conversation.
— Joyce Barnett
Anchorage
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