Camper charged for improper food storage in Banff National Park
Officials say “multiple” black bears have been seen frequenting the area around Rampart Creek.
A bear warning is in place for Banff’s Rampart Creek Campground following reports that a bear had investigated a campsite on August 4, taking food that was stored outside a tent in a bag marketed as “bear-resistant.”
The bear also contacted the tent again later when unoccupied, Banff National Park officials said in a recent Facebook post.
Following an investigation, the camper who had left food out was charged with two offences under the National Parks General Regulations and the National Parks of Canada Camping Regulations, the post says.
“When camping in Banff National Park, all scented items, including food and hygiene products, must be stored in a vehicle or in the bear-proof storage locks provided to prevent wildlife from accessing food,” the social media post reads.
“Bears that become human-food conditioned and associate humans with food rarely survive in the long run. They often end up in conflicts that result in management interventions, such as being relocated (which isn’t an effective solution), aversive conditioning, or, as a last resort, euthanized to ensure public safety.”
Area where the bear warning is in effect (Banff National Park)
Several bear incidents in Banff this year
Officials say “multiple” black bears have been seen frequenting the area around Rampart Creek.
Elsewhere in Banff, about 160 km south along Lake Minnewanka, campgrounds have been evacuated and forced to close due to bears repeatedly ripping tents and, in at least one instance, gaining access to food.
Outdoor bear safety tips
Alberta Forestry and Parks and Public Safety and Emergency Services recommend the following safety tips for people venturing into bear-inhabited areas:
Travel in groups and stick to official trails.
Make noise regularly to avoid surprising a bear.
Keep dogs leashed at all times.
Carry bear spray and know how to use it.
Secure food, garbage, and other items that may attract bears in bear-resistant containers.
Avoid areas that suggest recent bear activity, like tracks, scat, or diggings.
Lastly:
Never approach a bear or try to take a selfie with it. Not only could you risk severe injury or worse, but you could also be subjected to hefty fines and jail time.
Extra precautions should be taken near lakeshores, creeks, berry patches, and places with limited visibility.
If you encounter a bear
If you come across a bear, remember to:
Stay calm and do not run.
Back away slowly while speaking in a steady, firm voice.
Parks Canada advises keeping your eyes on the bear but avoiding eye contact.
Use bear spray if the bear comes within range.
Header image: File photo.