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   The Cass County Sheriff’s Office is reminding residents and visitors to take precautions following an increase in bear activity and human-bear interactions throughout the area.

   Recently, the Cass County Sheriff’s Office and local law enforcement have responded to a number of incidents involving bears, including: Three separate incidents involving bears entering occupied homes. A bear entering a tent at a campground. Motor vehicle crashes involving bears. Bears getting into garbage or attempting to access garbage. A bear damaging a vehicle while attempting to get into a rear tonneau cover. Bears repeatedly hanging around residential properties while searching for available food sources.

   These incidents are a reminder that bears are opportunistic animals and will quickly take advantage of easily accessible food. Once a bear finds a reliable food source, it may return to the same location and become increasingly comfortable around people.

Help Prevent Bear Conflicts

   Residents and visitors can help reduce bear encounters by removing or securing potential food sources around homes, cabins, campsites and businesses. 

   Please remember to:

   • Secure garbage in a bear-resistant container or keep it in a secure building until collection day.

   • Remove bird feeders, especially during periods of increased bear activity. Bears are attracted to both bird seeds and the food beneath feeders.

   • Do not leave pet food outside.

   • Clean outdoor grills and cooking areas thoroughly after use.

   • Keep windows and doors closed and secure when not occupied.

   • Do not leave food, coolers or other attractants outside overnight.

   • Secure food and other attractants when camping.

   • Avoid intentionally feeding or approaching bears.

   The Sheriff’s Office also reminds the public never to intentionally approach, corner, chase or attempt to photograph a bear at close range. Give bears plenty of space and allow them an opportunity to leave the area.

   If a bear is repeatedly entering a home, vehicle or other structure, or is displaying aggressive or unusual behavior, contact local law enforcement or the appropriate wildlife authorities.

   “Bears are an important part of our natural environment, and most bear encounters can be prevented by eliminating access to food sources,” said Cass County Sheriff Bryan Welk. “We are asking everyone to take a few simple precautions now to reduce the likelihood of a bear becoming comfortable around people or property.”

   The Cass County Sheriff’s Office appreciates the cooperation of residents, property owners, campers and visitors as we work to reduce human-bear conflicts and keep our communities safe.

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