Work to Upgrade Mayslake Dog Area Begins Mid-April

In mid-April the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County will begin to upgrade amenities and conditions at its 4-acre off-leash dog area at Mayslake Forest Preserve in Oak Brook. 

The area will close during construction and will likely remain closed until summer 2014, but a temporary 3-acre fenced-in area will be open south of the parking lot during this time.

“Based on feedback from our visitors, we know that when the new area opens next year they’re going to enjoy the small-dog area, the added benches and minishelters, and the new drain tiles that will prevent muddy areas,” said Matt Blazek, the District’s site-management supervisor for Mayslake.

Other enhancements will include play areas with durable alternative surfaces, regraded and reseeded grassy areas, 1,440 feet of limestone trails, enhanced landscaping, and a reconfigured entrance. 

The new area will open as soon as turf is well-established. “It’s important for the grass to have a deep, stable root structure so all visitors, whether on four legs or two, can enjoy turf surfaces that stand up to the wear and tear created by pups at play,” noted Blazek.      

Details and maps are on the District’s website, dupageforest.org, under “Forest Preserve News,” “Plans and Projects” and “Mayslake Off-Leash Dog Area Improvements.”

Established in 1915, the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County manages over 25,000 acres of prairies, woodlands and wetlands. Each year, over 4.3 million visitors enjoy the District’s 60 forest preserves, 145 miles of trails, five education centers, and scores of scheduled programs and events. To learn more, call 630-933-7200 or visit dupageforest.org.