A powerful endorsement for a subsidized bear-proof bin initiative.
Conservation Officer Jason Hawkes often has to destroy grizzly and black bears that have become habituated to human garbage.
He’s also part of the West Kootenay Human-Bear Conflict Working Group that wants to launch the bin program this year.
Hawkes believes a widespread end to bear-garbage conflict is possible.
35% of all conflict cases are garbage-related.
Hawkes adds other programs continue such as help for electrified fencing , fruit removal and local governments embracing wildlife attractant bylaws.
The group is seeking money from the RDCK to use with other grants so the $250 bear-proof bins can be offered at half-price to residents or loaned to those who can’t afford it.
*Picture – Conservation Officer Jason Hawkes (pictured with Wildsafe BC’s Gillian Sanders) fully supports efforts to get a subsidized bear-proof bin program off the ground