GPD Signs Use Agreement With Buckeye Retriever Club
The Buckeye Retriever Club is set to use the 182-acre Kittredge property owned by the Geauga Park District after GPD Board of Commissioners passed a use agreement Oct. 16.
The Buckeye Retriever Club is set to use the 182-acre Kittredge property owned by the Geauga Park District after GPD Board of Commissioners passed a use agreement Oct. 16.
GPD Executive Director John Oros recently shared details about the property at 14849 Rock Creek Road in Hambden Township.
“Western Reserve Land Conservancy worked with Buckeye Retrievers Club to negotiate the purchase alongside Geauga Park District. Throughout the negotiations, the purchase was negotiated in good faith knowing the former uses of the property extended by owner Mr. (Jon) Kittredge to Buckeye Retriever Club would also be extended by Geauga Park District,” Oros said. “Historically, Buckeye Retriever Club has maintained the meadows and ponds on the property. They will continue to maintain these areas for Geauga Park District. This will help Geauga Park District ensure we maintain a variety of quality habitats on the property.”
The agreement will be for a period of 10 years and will automatically renew for successive terms of five unless either party gives the other a written notice of non-renewal at least 90 days prior to the end of the existing term.
“We acquired the property on Sept. 29. The purchase price was $1 million,” Oros said. “It has woods, meadows and a stream. The stream is known as Bates Creek.
He added, “The property has been utilized by the club as a location to host and permit other organizations’ sporting dog field trials, training, events, hunt tests, all open to the public and other events and programs for the training of canine retriever breeds.”
The property will continue to be used as a dog training ground by club members and its invitees, and the club will continue to host events and seminars, as well as American Kennel Club and or Hunting Retriever Club public events and tests, Oros said, adding by acquiring the property, GPD is able to ensure its perpetual conservation and protection while also ensuring the club is able to continue using it.
