In April 2002, The Trustees began an innovative, one-year pilot dog-walking program to help accomplish this goal. To emphasize the overall balance of many uses, the pilot program was named Green Dogs at Rocky Woods - Sharing the Trail. The property is now open exclusively to dogs and dog walkers who agree to and abide by the terms of the Green Dogs program.

Among other provisions, the Green Dogs program:

1. requires that all dogs and dog walkers have a Green Dogs Permit (either an annual permit or a day pass) to use the property. An annual permit is available as a free member benefit to family members of The Trustees of Reservations for up to two dogs (additional permits may be purchased for a fee).
   
   
2. zones the property into on-leash, off-leash, and off-limits areas. These zones are clarified by maps and signs to inform all visitors of the new policy.
   
   
3. opens Rocky Woods for Green Dogs Permit holders every day from dawn to dusk except Sunday afternoons from noon to dusk to allow other users to enjoy the property without dogs. (Neighboring reservation, Fork Factory Brook, is closed to dogs on weekends.)
   
   
4. provides additional staffing on weekends and during the week to enroll and educate dog walkers about the Green Dogs program.

The new pilot program was developed by an eleven-member task force composed of nine volunteers and two staff. The group included many members who enjoy dog-walking at Rocky Woods along with other activities. The task force's goal was to devise a policy to help ensure that Rocky Woods would be a welcoming and safe place for all visitors to enjoy.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)

Am I eligible for a Green Dogs Program permit?
Annual Green Dogs dog walking permits are issued free to all members of The Trustees of Reservations for up to two dogs per household membership (more can be purchased separately).  Nonmembers may purchase single-day passes for $10 per dog if they wish to walk their dogs but do not wish to join The Trustees of Reservations.

What do I get?
By becoming a family level (or higher) member of The Trustees of Reservations and registering in the Green Dogs Program, you will receive:

• Dog tag permits for up to two dogs, plus the opportunity to purchase additional permits at $20 per dog.
• Dog walker badges for up to two dog walkers.
• Permit is valid through March 31st of each year.

Plus, all the benefits of membership in The Trustees of Reservations!

What is the cost?
Beyond your annual membership dues, there is no cost unless you require permits for more than two dogs.

How are permit fees used?
All fees collected through the Green Dogs Program are used to pay for the costs associated with managing the program (staffing, plastic bags, waste disposal, etc.).

How do I register for a permit?
Enrollment in the Green Dogs program is handled at the Rocky Woods main entrance only. Weekend hours are 9am to 5pm. For weekdays, make an appointment with staff call 508/785-0339. To be eligible for a permit, please bring:

• Your Trustees of Reservations membership card (lost it? contact membership@ttor.org). If you're not a member yet, you can join at the same time you register for the permit.
• Each dog you're enrolling
• Each dog's up-to-date town dog license

If purchasing a membership or permits for additional dogs, please pay by cash, check, credit card, or money order.

What are the regulations of the program? Download the Rules & Regulations

The following regulations apply to dog walking at both Rocky Woods and Fork Factory Brook reservations.  With your support, this program will be a success!

• Only registered dogs and registered dog walkers may go dog walking on the reservations.  Dogs must display their annual permit or day pass tag on their collar; dog walkers must prominently display their annual permit or day pass badge on their person.
  
  
• Dogs walkers must have their dogs under their control at all times including:

On-leash Zones.  Dogs must be leashed at all times while in an “On-leash” zone. 

Off-leash Zones.  Dog walkers may not let their dogs out of their control or sight. When approaching other visitors/dogs in an off-leash zone, dog walkers should call their dogs to their side and keep them under control until the visitors/dogs pass. At times when the reservation is crowded, consider keeping your dog leashed. Dogs must be immediately leashed at the first sign of aggression or unruliness.

Off-limit zones: Dogs are not permitted in off-limit zones.

• One person may walk no more than two dogs.  The walker must have a separate leash for each dog.
  
  
• At Rocky Woods, dog walking is permitted whenever the reservation is open EXCEPT on Sundays from noon to closing time.  At Fork Factory Brook, dog-walking is permitted on weekdays; no dog walking is permitted on weekends.
  
  
• Dog walkers must dispose of their dog's excrement.  Plastic bags (mutt mitts) and trash barrels are available near the parking area.
  
  

• A group of Volunteer Stewards — peer dog walkers who act as ambassadors for Green Dogs and for Rocky Woods— is an important element of the program. Brief training is available to participate; contact Mike Francis at mfrancis@ttor.org or call 508/785-0339

• If necessary, staff will enforce compliance with these regulations.  Permits may be canceled for permit holders who are out of compliance.

The Trustees of Reservations appreciates your support of this important program.

Thank You!