SUMMIT COUNTY — The League for Animals & People of the Summit will introduce the new nonprofit group SCAMP or Summit County Animal Multi-use Parks at its annual meeting on Thursday.

The group is designed to finance future dog parks in Summit County, according to current LAPS president Sally Beerup.

The nonprofit status of the group is in the process of being confirmed, and until then will operate and accept donations through LAPS, Beerup wrote in an e-mail.

Beerup will serve as president of the new organization; Sherri Seirmarco, vice president; Wendy Myers, treasurer; and Eileen Davies as secretary.

According to Beerup, the group has so far given presentations to the towns in the county and county commissioners and have more meetings in the works.

Beerup wrote that the SCAMP group will work to incorporate green products and composting and recycling aspects into future designs. They also hope to “include various amenities like agility courses, water sources, shade, seating and varied terrain,” Beerup wrote.

She defined a dog park as “off-leash, enclosed and (having) some amenities” and being at least one acre of grassy land with a nearby water source. Beerup also wrote by e-mail that “Summit County could support one to four” dog parks.

“To date, LAPS has collected over 1,500 petition signatures,” Beerup said in regards to adding more dog parks to the county.

In the interim, Breckenridge is working to put up a permanent wood fence at Carter Park.

Beerup welcomed those interested in getting involved with the new dog park group to e-mail LAPS@colorado.net for more information.

Also at the meeting on Thursday, which begins at 7 p.m. at the Summit County Animal Shelter near Frisco, elections for the LAPS board will be held.

There will be a short program presented by Paul Schiff of Wholesome Pet Supplies and Barb Cole, owner of the Barnyard, on “How to read the label on pet food to insure your pet’s health.” Abbey’s Coffee and desserts will be served at the meeting and everyone is welcome, including non LAPS members.

• Let’s Go Sailing. Father’s Day weekend, Jun 14-15. The Dillon Marina/Town of Dillon sponsors this event where two-legged friends (no pets, sorry) can enjoy a 45-minute cruise around the lake in a captained sailboat or a pontoon boat with all proceeds benefiting LAPS.

• Canine 4K. Saturday, Aug. 2. This event is LAPS’ biggest fundraiser, sponsored by the Town of Frisco, which loops around Frisco with 150 dogs of all sizes and breeds dragging their owners who can either walk or run. There are also door prizes, doggie contests including pet/owner look-alike, best singer and best dance. Prizes are given to top finishers in age/gender/walk/run categories so half the participants go home with something. More than $14,600 was raised last year at the 4K to benefit needy animals in Summit County.