Be Bear Wise This Spring & Summer 2025

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As the weather warms and bears begin emerging from hibernation, it is vital for surrounding communities in The Hazelton's to take proactive steps to avoid bear conflicts and promote safe coexistence. Whether you're hiking, camping, gardening, or simply enjoying your backyard, being BearWise helps protect both people and wildlife.

๐ŸŒฟ Six Outdoor BearWise Basics Everyone Should Know:

  1. Stay Alert & Travel in Groups
    Hike or explore with others, and always keep children and pets close. Groups are noisier and less likely to surprise a bear.
  2. Leave No Trash or Food Behind
    Anything with a scent can attract bears โ€” pack out all food waste and garbage, even crumbs.
  3. Keep Outdoor Spaces Clean
    Whether at camp or home, make sure grills, picnic areas, and yards are free of leftover food, grease, and garbage.
  4. Never Burn Food Scraps
    Campfires wonโ€™t destroy food odors โ€” burning scraps may still attract bears long after you're gone.
  5. Store Food & Smells Securely
    Use bear-resistant containers or hang food properly in bear country. Never store food in tents or leave it out in the open.
  6. Keep Dogs Leashed
    Loose pets can chase or aggravate bears and lead them back to people. Leashes help keep everyone safe.

๐ŸŒŽ Why It Matters

By following these BearWise practices, youโ€™re helping reduce the risk of negative bear encounters while supporting efforts to conserve these important animals and preserve cultural and ecological values in our region.

Working together, we can keep our communities safe and maintain a healthy balance between people and wildlife.

๐Ÿ”— Learn More

Visit the official BearWise website for more tips and resources!

BearWise Fact Sheet's:

Vacation Tips:

Bear Encounters - Outdoors in Grizzly Country:

Action Plan for Communities in Bear Country:

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