Silverdale’s new dog park — now under construction — could open before its originally scheduled July debut, with enough money.

The stewardship has raised more than $16,000 out of its $35,000 goal, with more fundraisers this month. Anita Bates, president of the stewardship, said the park may open as soon as the $35,000 is raised.

Two tree sales will help raise money later this month, and the stewardship is also selling dedication plaques that will appear on 10-foot sections of fencing in the park. Advertising will be sold on two-by-four-foot boards that will be displayed on the south end of the park.

Last week, Naturally 4 Paws in Silverdale held a dog park sale that collected $1,100 for the stewardship.

Volunteers have helped prepare the park site at the Gateway Park near the Clear Creek Trail, removing scotch broom and blackberry bushes during several work parties in the past few weeks. On Earth Day, April 22, the Clear Creak Task Force and students from Central Kitsap High School will build a 600-foot gravel trail through the park.

“It’s pretty exciting to see things start happening,” McCown said.

In addition to the pathways and fencing, there will be a picnic area an 14 additional parking spaces.

The first tree sale fundraiser will be from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 20 to 21 at Hood Canal Nurseries, located at 37020 Madrona Boulevard in Hansville. The following weekend, the stewardship will sell trees from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 27 and 28 at the Kitsap County Fairgrounds, located at 1200 NW Fairgrounds Road in Bremerton. The Hansville tree sale is you-pick – bring a bag or bucket and a shovel.