Residents urged to bear proof their yards

The City of Armstrong is having trouble with bears in a certain neighborhood and residents are getting some of the blame.

According to the B.C. Conservation Service there were 26 bear calls on Highland Park Drive this year, and a habituated bear was destroyed last month.

“This problem exists due to many residents not taking the appropriate steps to ensuring their property is bear proof,” Warren Smith, Community Services Manager with the City of Armstrong, said. “Steps must be taken by residents to ensure that the community is not put at further risk and ultimately ensuring no further bears become habituated.”

Three residents have been issued violations for not taking appropriate measures to prevent attracting bears.

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According to the city, there has been over 160 been to the Conservation Services related to bear complaints the last three years.

Residents are asked to do their part by keeping garbage securely stored until the morning of garbage collection, and not leaving out any pet food or bird feeders.

Other tips include covering your compost with a light cover of lime, dirt or a heavy cover of grass clippings which will also help with odours.

Barbecues are also a strong bear attractant due the smells and cooked food sometimes left behind.

“Take the steps to clean or burn off any leftover food residue,” Smith added.

To report a bear incident contact the B.C. Conservation Officer 24-hour hotline: 1-877-952-RAPP (7277).