The creation of Cooperation Station, also known as Mosquito Lake Dog Park, was the result of decades of dreams, years of research and proposals, months of planning, and only weeks of building.

In 1990, when dogs weren't even allowed to stay with owners in the campgrounds, Dr. Richard Cook, a respected local veterinarian, supported an effort to create a "dog friendly" park, which was turned soundly down by park management. A few years later, when pet camping was approved, Dr. Cook then suggested a dedicated area in the park for the purpose of exercising and socializing dogs off lead, and again was met with total resistance. His 2000 proposal for a dog park was rejected due to lack of funding and a perceived lack of interest.

Dr. Cook passed away in 2003, but his dream was kept alive by his son, Tim, who just happened to be a park officer at Mosquito Lake State Park. His efforts included researching dog parks, and measuring and photographing possible sites around the park, and getting estimates for fencing. He had gained the support of park management, but in 2005 and 2007, funding was not available.

Meanwhile, a group of dog lovers from Howland, approached the township about building a dog park as a part of the Howland Township Park. Hundred of signatures were gathered on petitions, and grants were applied for; but the plan was ultimately rejected by the trustees.

In 2008, part of the Howland group, including Cathy Abruzzo and Linda Heckel , joined Nancy Olds and Dawna Foster, who had been researching Cortand sites. Cathy contacted the Trumbull County MetroParks board, chaired by Mike Wilson, and the group explored several sites which were already a part of the Trumbull County MetroParks system. None, however, were deemed suitable. Then, in the spring of 2009, Mike Wilson and Mike Grammer, manager of Mosquito Lake State Park met, discussed similar ideas, and realized that both park systems wanted the same thing. The State Park had the land appropriated , and the MetroParks had the money to purchase fencing. The U.S Army Corps of Engineers approved use of the park land, and Youth Build Trumbull County made a commitment to install fencing.

Cathy, Nancy, and Dawna met with Mr.(s) Wilson and Grammer on the blustery afternoon of April 10, 2009, to review the layout and specifications for the park. Tragically, that night, Mike Grammer passed away, making the success of the park an even higher priority for the others involved. Tim Cook had retired as a park officer, but had promised Mike he would help with the dog park after his retirement. So, as a tribute to the dreams and visions of both his father and Mike, he dedicated an enormous amount of time and effort researching, communicating, and coordinating plans for the park.

An informational meeting was held on May 28, 2009 to organize a "friends" group, and on June 1st. construction of the park was begun. With the help and hard work of Youth Build, Mosquito Lake State Park employees, MetroPark employees, numerous volunteers, and even an occasional passerby, the fence posts, fencing, gates, and entrance paddocks were completed in only 4 weeks. Additionally, the grounds were cleared of branches, and fill dirt and mulch were spread.

The grand opening of Cooperation Station was held July 17, 2009. In attendance were the Tim Cook and his family, and Mrs. Mike( Karen) Grammer, in honor of the men most responsible for the creation of the park. Also there, were representatives from Mosquito Lake State Park, Ohio State Parks, Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Trumbull County MetroParks, the Army Corps of Engineers, Trumbull County Youth Build, Mosquito Lake Dog Park Friends, as well as local and county officials.

The creation of the dog park was truly a cooperative effort, greatly appreciated by all dogs and dog lovers in the area.

Thanks for taking the time to browse our page.  We hope to see you soon at the park!