Be “Bear Aware” this fall in Southwest Montana forests

With fall approaching, even inside of city limits there has been plenty of bear activity this year.  You can be sure that if bears are wandering into town, they are certainly active in the forest this time of year.  We had a chance to sit down with local forester and outdoor recreationalist Jocelyn Dodge who offered tips on how to avoid potential bear encounters.

"This time of year, bears are active for many hours of the day looking for food in preparation for hibernation," Dodge told us. "This means you may encounter bears more frequently'.  How do we avoid this and what do we do if we encounter a bear.  Dodge tells us to be "bear aware" by caring bear spray, making noise and looking ahead when in the forest, especially if you are hunting.  "When hunting, food, and harvested animals must be stored to prevent bears from becoming habituated to human food and for public safety."

Dodge noted that not only hunters will be out and about this season but many others as well.  "Please remember with the warm weather many are using trails and roads for recreation," Dodge noted. "Also, check the forest map for seasonal road restrictions."

Regardless of your reason for venturing into the forest, Dodge told us one thing remains certain and that is Montana's ever-changing weather.  "Whether you’re hunting or recreating. be prepared for changing weather conditions throughout the day and let others know where you’re going."

For more information contact the Butte ranger district at (406) 94-2147.