A Preliminary Review of Black Bear – Human Interactions and Recommended Strategies for the AOSERP Study Area

The purpose of the report was to examine the components which have resulted in the establishment and maintenance of nuisance bear populations (i.e., the interaction between bears and a food supply generated by man's activity), and the management strategies which may be implemented to reduce the problem, with particular reference to the AOSERP study area. Case studies from the Canadian Western National Parks, Yellowstone National Park, Glacier National Park, and the Peace River area, examining the evolution of the interaction problem and management strategies implemented, were used to supply background information for a problem analysis of bear-human interactions in the AOSERP study area. The analysis of bear-human interactions in the AOSERP study area indicated that the major conflict arises from nuisance bears attracted to areas by garbage. Recommendations emphasize a preventative policy, whereby garbage is made bearproof (i.e., sanitary landfill surrounded by an electric fence, garbage incineration, etc.), thus saving the costs of transporting and relocating nuisance animals.