And it smells like a rose

A new dog park opened today in New York City, the Tompkins Square Dog Run (that's Rascal, king of the hill, shown on the Dogster site article about the new park). And from the sounds of it, this could mark something of a breakthrough in the long debate over the best ground cover for the off-leash facilities. From The Villager:

After six years of planning, followed by nine months of construction, the dog run has dog advocates across the country licking their chops in anticipation. Specifically, the run features a state-of-the-art surface. Using several layers of rock, landscaping fabric and a new top surface called Plymouth Brown Screenings, the surface will allow dog urine and rainwater to drain directly through the run, meaning it won't emit unpleasant odors. In addition, organizers may eventually add zeolite, a lava mineral that deodorizes urine by breaking down the ammonia in it.

"It's going to be the standard for all New York City dog parks," boasted dog advocate Garrett Rosso.