Dogs of Our Lives: Robert E. Lee Park
Scully, here, with the poop on Robert E. Lee Park.
Trust me, when it comes to the poop on Robert E. Lee Park, nobody can provide it as well as me.
I am an English Mastiff, 150 pounds and – at eight months old -- still growing.
Three or four times a week, I hit the park with my master, Lat Naylor. He’s an artist.
Sunday was a typical day. We got there early, around 9, parked the car, and walked over the pedestrian bridge past that dam.
It's like a giant stairway, with water running over it.
If you didn't need to go when you got there, you will by the time you walk past it, with all the rushing water, which is too bad for you humans, because there are no public restrooms -- at least none that are unlocked.
I hooked up early with a Newfoundland named Anchor. My kind of dog -- big and drooly. Then I chewed on some sticks.
Some of which were still attached to the tree.
They’re fresher that way.
Then I met another big dog, named Ace – not quite as big as me – but he galloped right up and he made a growly noise, and I wasn’t sure if he was going to bite me or what.
So I did that submissive thing. I backed away and had some alone time.
Ace approached a few more times, and we started to play.
There were lots of other dogs -- but the little ones, like this guy, weren't into wrestling.
. 
Playing with Ace, I took a few tumbles, as I haven't reached my full grace potential quite yet.
As it turns out, Ace and I really hit it off. We wrestled for a long time – off the leash. I know, it’s illegal, according to the signs, but how much faith can you put in signs like these:
Besides, everybody does it.
Robert E. Lee Park, for a dog, is the best of Baltimore's city parks -- even though it's not in the city.
Lake Roland is in Baltimore County but owned by the city because it's where much of Baltimore's water used to come from. As a result of the absentee ownership, the park is a tad neglected. But also as a result, our masters are less likely to get rousted for letting us off the leash.
It's more than 450 acres.
It has streams and a lake to cool off in.
There are dense forests and scenic trails, and tunnels and footbridges.
It's paradise for a dog.
I think the people have a good time, too -- though not quite as good a time as we do. People are funny. They always ask each other what the other's dog is named, but rarely do they exchange their own names.
That puzzles me.
Even though they use us dogs to help them socialize, they still like to keep some distance. It's kind of like it was with Ace -- coming up all growly and in my face. At first, I wasn't sure I was going to like him.
But he turned out OK.
If you take the time to get to know somebody, rather than decide on first impression you don't like them -- because their tail's too curly, or their growl's too loud, or their coat's the wrong color -- it usually pays off.
People need to do a better job of sniffing each other out.
Well, that's all for me.
See you at the park.
Your friend, Scully
(If you frequent Robert E. Lee Park, please feel free to use this page to post any comments or information -- about dogs, about dog owners, or about the condition of the park.)
(To visit our entries on other Baltimore City parks frequented by dogs, click on the "Dogs of Our Lives" logo on the rightside rail of this page.)
(Any opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those of Scully, or his owner, Lat Naylor.)
(All parks referred to in this and other "Dogs of Our Lives" entries are not technically dog parks, with the exception of Canton Dog Park, the only dog park in Baltimore City. At other city parks, dogs are required by law to be on leashes at all times.)
(Photos by John Woestendiek)
Comments
Yes, it would be nice to get the city to pay a little more attention to Robert E Lee Park. I frequent the park to ride my bike and it could certainly use a little help to get cleaned up. As a cyclist, I must confess it would be nice for dog owners to abide the leash law. When I mention this to dog owners I see in the park, after being chased or barked at, the typical response is, "Everybody does it". I'm not sure that is a good excuse. From my point of view, as a cyclist and someone that frequents the park, I think we could do better as guests of the place. I make sure that when I go to the park, I leave no trace, but judging by all the plastic bags I see tied around tree branches, containing, well, poop, I'm not sure some dog owners could say the same. We all need to be responsible and considerate to make sure that the park remains a place where we can enjoy the outdoors.
Posted by: johnny may | December 8, 2008 6:08 PM
Is the park open yet?
Posted by: T | January 2, 2009 1:56 PM
Unfortunately, the park is not yet open and, from recently read articles, it will cost ... well, let's say A LOT to fix the existing foot bridge. Perhaps cement is not the answer...maybe a wooden bridge would be less expensive. If we have gotten together for neighborhood/housing revenovations, maybe the dog lovers of R.E.Lee should attempt this renovation as well. Excerpt from a Jan 6 2009 article written by Liz F. Kay in speaking w/ Baltimore County Parks Director reads "The first phase of improvements could include a dog park and maintenance of paths and trails as well as the bridge replacement and erosion problems, costing between $6 million and $7 million...the first phase could be completed within 12 to 18 months." Good grief...is that all. Here is the article link: http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/baltimore_county/bal-park0106,0,7803726.story
Posted by: MarieW | January 22, 2009 11:01 AM
My dogs and I use RELee park a lot, and have for 4 years. I carry out from 1 pound to 20 pounds of human trash every visit...plastic discarded along trails, shiny yellow reflectors that have fallen off bikes (not dogs), dog poop, cans, broken glass, etc. I've never seen a biker or runner carrying out other people's trash. There is an online petition, an urgent one, regarding responsible use of areas of parks by offleash dogs. If you want to sign, and hear Mark Steiner's podcast on subject, go to: http://www.steinershow.org/radio/the-marc-steiner-show/may-5-2009-hour-2
Posted by: Linda Franklin | May 6, 2009 2:53 AM
As a frequent cycling visitor to Baltimore County and Robt. E. Lee Park, I do wish that the much-needed improvements take place. In the meantime, I don't miss the crowds and the parking and trash problems. I've never had a problem with dog poop on the trails, but did wonder why there are so many poop bags hanging from branches. Is this a Baltimore trait? I haven't seen them in such abundance elsewhere. Why bother bringing a bag in the first place? The park is a gem despite the name (why Lee?) and lack of funds. With all the problems in Baltimore, hon, I can put up with a little poop in the park for a bit longer. Besides. I LOVE the nearby Pepe's diner.
Posted by: Sal Ruibal | June 28, 2009 5:54 PM
I used to be a frequent walking visitor to REL park until the bridge closed. I enjoyed seeing other peoples' dogs and they weren't a problem for me. Poo pickup was also being done pretty responsibly although I also saw a lot of poo bags hanging from trees. What is that all about? Other trash wasn't as much of a problem although I'd really like to see all the gang signs dissappear.
I didn't see that the trails needed fixing as they were still a little bit wild- that's what makes them so attractive. It really is like walking in the woods. I do think people should keep their dogs on leash though to prevent dog fights, clandestine poo deposits and moving obstacles for bicyclists. Otherwise, the cyclists will just have to run the dogs down- oops! It's just being responsible. "Everyone does it" is not an excuse.
Posted by: Catherine | July 10, 2009 10:38 AM
I have never heard the "everybody's doing it" excuse about the irritating amount of dogs off leashes, rather when people simply say, "oh he's friendly," when their great dane or slobbery beagle comes barreling towards me. I like dogs for the most part, I honestly do, but enough is enough. At times it is literally impossible to take a pleasant walk in Robert E. Lee because off all the dogs. Every few years you get dogs excited and running towards you. I don't even want friendly dogs jumping on me that frequently. It would be easier for everyone to enjoy if dog owners simply would keep their dogs leashed. Fair is fair.
Posted by: Sam | August 8, 2009 10:35 AM
Sam, why can't you and everyone else understand that getting your dog's energy out means taking them off the leash. Don't be so greedy. Share the park with everyone and enjoy the area for what it is. A dog park!
Posted by: Dave | August 9, 2009 8:49 AM
Hello, I have an issue with dogs off leash in these parks. I would not object at all to a dog having freedom to run around, but only if the owners can keep this dog under control when it is off the leash. You have to be able to call the dog back and prevent it from approaching dogs and people who do not invite it. Very few owners are able to do that. These are not really dog parks and I think it is irresponsible. I really wish the city would enforce these rules, but of course, given the general situation, this must be their last priority... That is why me and my dog are unable to use these areas safely and it is a little unfair.
Posted by: Dima | August 10, 2009 4:01 PM
The ideal is a place where the dogs can be off leash whenever they are withing the perimeter off the park and not have to apologize for it to anyone. This is very difficult to achieve beyond a relatively small fenced in area which has it's own set of detractors.
A compromise:
A sign to advise the concerned that certain areas of the park the public should expect to encounter off leash dogs.
If the prospect of encountering a slobbering golden who wants you to throw a stick frightens you then you will know to avoid these areas.
Posted by: Anonymous | August 10, 2009 7:53 PM
Hello, HOW do i get to this great park?? I went where the light rail road is and went to the right, but the foot bridge is closed. Is there another way to get to the main part of the park??? Thanks!!
Posted by: chris | September 18, 2009 5:30 PM
It is absolutely NOT a dog park--the dogs do not own it. Dog owners need a smigen of respect for others. The park was recently closed due to poop poisoning. By the way-your dog may not lick me or my kids, if you tried to lick us you would be in jail-so why can't you get it? Some dog owners sit in cars while dogs run unattended..come on. I like animals but, some dog owners are bullies.
Posted by: ms. manners | October 3, 2009 7:08 PM
Simma down a smidgen, ms. manners! Wow! Speaking of bullies....
Also, the park is not closed due to poop poisoning. You definitely gave me a good chuckle on that one! The footbridge is closed for structural repairs.
I'd like to think we can all get along - dog lovers and dog haters alike - but your irrational comments make it verrrry difficult.
Posted by: LD | October 5, 2009 1:10 PM
all you people who think dogs need to stay on leash are lunatic. dogs are animals, not children. If another dog comes "barreling at you slobbering" then treat him like a barreling and slobbering dog and either tell him to go away, or let your dog play with it. dogs are social creatures, yes some have infinite energy and sometimes cause commotion, but they are animals, it is in their nature. relax and enjoy your pet.
Posted by: cody | October 13, 2009 1:35 PM
Does anyone have an update on when the footbridge will be repaired or replaced? It has been over 2 years, now.
Randy
Posted by: randy reed | October 21, 2009 2:48 PM
So I have 3 enormous dogs. We are moving into the area. They have lived in the country all of their dog lives and get several long walks a day, on leash. After my neighbors crazy dog bit my lab dane mix, he seems territorial. He gets very growlly when other dogs go by his fence. I worry that with other dogs off leash, there could be a fight. Any thoughts?
Posted by: sallie trout | October 25, 2009 2:12 PM
LD, I'm glad you got a "good chuckle" out of ms. manners comment that the park was closed due to "poop poisoning".
As it turns out, the park was indeed closed due to high levels of bacteria in the soil caused by dog excrement. That's right -- dog excrement.
According to information posted on the Ruxton Riderwood Lake Roland Area Improvement Association, "The Concept Plan outlined several short range objectives that included replacing the pedestrian bridge and erosion control and remediation of the soil on the peninsula. The remediation request was a direct byproduct of the Baltimore City Health Department’s findings of excessively high bacteria levels due to dog excrement, findings that caused closure of the park for a significant period of time. The soil samples taken by the Baltimore City Health Department revealed extremely high and dangerous levels of acid/bacteria and fecal e-coli, creating a serious public health threat (samples taken on site were 17,000 percent above of the acceptable levels) and a health threat that our organization and subcommittee initially alerted the Baltimore City Health Department of."
See full report at: http://www.rrlraia.org/topics/dawn_new_day.html.
The RRLRAIA has been instrumental in Baltimore County securing a lease with Baltimore City for Robert E. Lee Park and for securing funding for planned park improvements, including the construction of a designated area where dogs can be exercised responsibly.
Posted by: doug parker | November 20, 2009 11:48 PM