Friends Of Ellicott Inc

Ellicott Island Bark Park is one of the hidden gems of Western New York! As part of the Erie County Parks System, it is currently one of the largest & most breathtaking dog parks in our area. Unlike other dog parks, Ellicott Island Bark Park offers almost 15 acres of shaded meandering paths through mowed lawns & naturalized areas with multiple points of water access for park patrons & their dogs to explore. While Friends of Ellicott Inc. formed in the efforts to push for the use of Ellicott Island as an off-leash natural recreation area, we have continued our dedication to Ellicott Island Bark Park by advocating for the preservation & improvement of the natural & historical aspects of the park while also implementing amenities that are geared towards a fun, safe & clean environment for our canine companions.

With help from our community of volunteers, we have improved the natural aspect of Ellicott Island Bark Park by:

• Hosting seasonal clean-up events
• Arranging planting events
• Designating naturalization areas for birds, butterflies & native plant
• Regenerating the turf with a yearly reseeding
• Sought out sponsor support to maintain waste bag stations
• Repurposed a small water fountain shelter for a Little Lending Library
• Installed a water fountain for dog usage
• Brought in art pieces by local artists

In addition to all of this, we work closely with the Erie County Parks & Recreation Department to:

• communicate on maintenance needs
• report areas of concerns 
• plan/coordinate park improvement projects
• plan/communicate to the public upcoming park closings for seasonal or maintenance purposes

With the help of major funding we envision so much more for Ellicott Island Bark Park! With this community wide funding effort we plan to move forward with some or all of this vision to improve this park by:

• Mitigating additonal erosion areas along the shoreline causing loss of land & possible hazard areas.
• Implementing management of our aging tree stock to identify hazardous limbs or dying trees that require removal. 
• Preserving the historical Works Progress Administration era structures, especially the boathouse & comfort station.
• Adding dog friendly amenities such as agility equipment & a dog wash station which could provide additional funding for future projects for years to come. 

This man made island on the Erie Canal has ridden waves of popularity & neglect over the years. With this new found resurgence, Friends of Ellicott is committed to maintaining & improving Ellicott Island so it may continue to provide a place for people to come with their pups for years to come.

Not familiar with Ellicott Island Bark Park? Check out this recent Buffalo Rising article we sourced a few pics from: Welcome to “Dog Island” – Buffalo Rising

Friends Of Ellicott Inc.Friends Of Ellicott Inc.

Location: Tonawanda, NY 14150, USA

IRS Employer Identification Number (EIN): 463128061

Our Mission

Friends Of Ellicott Inc. aims to support a variety of charitable endeavors with a strong focus on domesticated animals, environmental education, local beautification projects, animal protection and welfare, and wildlife preservation and protection, specifically within & for the benefit of Ellicott Island Bark Park.

Community and Purpose

Our organization works diligently alongside Erie County to manage and maintain Ellicott Island Bark Park. By supporting our community’s beloved open spaces, we aim to:

• Mitigate erosion issues to protect park vegetation and land
• Preserve and enhance the natural habitat on the island
• Safeguard historic Works Progress Administration era structures
• Maintain and showcase local artwork
• Add amenities that enhance the well-being and activity levels for park patrons and their canine companions

Why We Need Your Support

Friends Of Ellicott Inc. relies on the generous donations and support of individuals like you to sustain and enhance our various initiatives. Each contribution makes a meaningful impact, with every dollar directly fueling our efforts to create a richer, more sustainable environment for our community.

How Your Donations Help

• Funding for erosion control measures to protect natural landscapes
• Support for wildlife preservation and habitat restoration
• Maintenance and preservation of historic structures within the park
• Enabling programs for environmental education and stewardship

Please consider donating today. Your support brings about significant change and helps us continue our mission to enhance and protect our cherished community spaces.