FARMINGTON – The University of Maine at Farmington’s Prescott Field has long been a favorite place for local folks to exercise their dogs but the droppings left behind have posed a sanitary problem for athletes using the field and a clean-up chore for the grounds keepers.
Franklin Savings Bank and UMF have teamed up to solve the problem and keep the field open to dogs and their owners by erecting a dog waste station at the entrance to the field. The station dispenses bags for owners to use to pick up the waste and a garbage can in which to dispose those filled bags. Franklin Savings Bank bought the station and furnishes the dog waste bags while UMF maintains it.
“It was a win-win for everyone involved,” said Shelley Deane, senior vice president administration and human resources at FSB, who frequently takes her German Shorthair Pointer, Gretchen, to the field. “Gretchen loves it here and we are so glad we can keep it open for everybody.”
“People have already told us, ‘What a great idea,’ and thanked us for doing it,” said Julie Davis, UMF’s director of athletics, fitness and recreation. “The fields are a great connection with the community, UMF and healthy outdoor activity. We appreciate Franklin Savings Bank’s support and now we want everyone to know it is here. The more dog owners participate, the better the environment is for everyone,” she added.
“People are using it,” said Bob McCully, grounds landscaper at UMF, who indicated it has been emptied since installation.
“Student-athletes and all other recreational users will appreciate the gesture as well,” said Davis.
That is great. I hope people don’t abuse it by not using the station.
Wonderful!
All I can say is FSB ALL you guys rock. Thanks so much. I always bring some bags with me when I take the dogs to the feild,but unfortunately I see a lot of dog oweners not pick up their dog’s dropings,maybe this will help the people that don’t pick up with the station being in the front of the fields. Thanks so much for bank that is always there….
Thank you so much!
This community continues to inspire me. It’s good to see the folks in Farmington working to make our wonderful town dog friendly, people friendly, and community friendly. I too hope people will respect the field and use the bags. With everyone on board, perhaps other places in town will install a doggie waste station. Thank you Shelly Deane and others at Farmington Savings Bank and UMF.
This is wonderful, thanks!! Ruff!
Thanks FSB! Now if only someone would donate one for Meetinghouse Park!