Grizzly bears return to the Cascade Mountains
Good news for bears in the Pacific Northwest! We love to see animal populations back in their native habitats as often as possible, with an eye toward safety and harm mitigation as needed.
In that spirit, state and federal officials are helping bring back sustainable populations of grizzly bears in Washington State's Cascade mountains. About six million acres, primarily public lands, make up the North Cascade Ecosystem, which has already enjoyed the restoration of gray wolves, wolverines, and Pacific fishers to their natural habitats.
Bears co-existed with the region's indigenous tribes for thousands of years, but once European settlement began, it was a tale as old as time for wildlife like bears: hunters, trappers, and ranchers killed vast numbers of these animals for their fur and protect livestock. Most of the population in the North Cascades was gone by 1860. Humans, freeways, dams, and fragmented habitats did the rest.
But now, bears are making a comeback thanks to the work of the National Park Service and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
The plan is to release 3 to 7 bears each year over the next 5-10 years, aiming for an initial population of 25 that will likely grow to 200 over the next 60-100 years.
Grizzlies are considered a threatened species in the 48 contiguous states, and there has been no evidence of grizzly bears living in the Cascade Mountains since 1996. This project will restore balance to an ecosystem that has been off-kilter for decades.
But some folks in the area are nervous about the reintroduction of bears and the safety of themselves and their dogs, who often accompany them on hiking and camping trips.
Bear encounters, in general, and especially attacks, are exceedingly rare. We already know that hikers can co-exist safely with bears as they currently do in Yellowstone, the Rockies, and throughout Alaska. Still, it's a good idea for outdoorsy folks to re-acquaint themselves with common-sense bear safety rules now:
Always store food and garbage properly to avoid attracting curious bears.
Hike in groups and avoid hiking at dusk, dawn, or after dark when bears are more active.
Always keep your dog on a leash so it doesn't sniff out a hiding bear.
Never surprise a grizzly bear. Make noise frequently and watch for fresh tracks and other bear signs so you can stay out of each other's way.
If you see a bear, always keep your distance. Never approach or run from a grizzly. Always steer clear of bear cubs if you see them.
Carry bear spray and know how to use it.
With common sense and good outdoor education, these naturally shy bears are unlikely to be a problem for humans and will help restore Washington's stunning natural habitat and biodiversity.