Dogs and their humans will take center stage at “Waterland Woof,” a free community event set for Saturday, Sept. 6, 2025, from 8:30 a.m. to Noon at the Des Moines Beach Park Picnic Shelter and trail.
Organizers describe the event as a day to “connect and celebrate people, pups and planet” with activities designed to highlight community resources, outdoor fun and clean water action.
All are welcome, and friendly dogs on leashes are encouraged to join.
The schedule includes a 5k parkrun on the Des Moines Creek Trail at 9 a.m., an 11 a.m. nature “walk and wag” with the Waterland Walkers, and free microchip scanning for pets at the picnic shelter. At 12:30 p.m., the festivities continue at the Des Moines Waterfront Farmers Market with the annual Dog Daze Costume Parade and tricks contest.
Participants will find a wide range of organizations sharing information and giveaways. Poogooder, the event founder, will provide clean water tips, free bandanas, and “Zeropoo” yard signs. King County Search Dogs will give demonstrations, and Public Health staff will offer septic and sewer maintenance information. SR3 marine mammal stewards will be on hand with advice about seal pup safety and keeping dogs leashed on beaches, while Des Moines Surface Water staff will sign up volunteers for adopt-a-drain programs.
Other partners include King County Department of Natural Resources, the Des Moines Waterfront Farmers Market, Woodmont Beach Country Club, and Sunstar Dog Training.
Organizers say the event caps three years of outreach to raise awareness of fecal pollution in Poverty Bay and to promote everyday clean water actions, such as always picking up after pets, not feeding geese, and maintaining septic systems.
