Peter Mather
Peter Mather
In 2017 WildWise investigated the food conditioning of bears along the Skagway Rd. (see Education). Our conversations with tour operators revealed an opportunity to develop educational resources for tour operators and tourists about food conditioning and reducing conflict. We set out to investigate what tour operators are doing and what they need in order to provide accurate information and improve safety for their staff and clients. The next step is to develop partnerships and resources. Read the results of our survey here.
With support from the City of Whitehorse and Environment Yukon we set out to investigate steps that other communities have taken to reduce conflict with bears. We included seven communities and researched their approaches, focusing on solid waste management, bylaws, enforcement and education. This gives us valuable information that will help Yukon communities adopt bear smart practices. Please read the document here.
We also extended our door to door outreach this summer to Copper Ridge, Carmacks, Mount Sima, Wolf Creek and Spruce Hill.
Food conditioned bears along the Skagway Road.
In collaboration with the Carcross & Tagish First Nations, CT/RRC, Environment Yukon and Parks Canada we monitored human interactions with bears and delivered education about bear behavior and the dangers of food conditioning this summer along the Carcross and Skagway Roads. In response to concerns from all partners and residents in the area about road safety and negative human-bear interactions we encouraged tourists and tour companies not to use the highway shoulders for bear viewing and not to feed the bears. Read the full report here.
It is exciting to see a bear on the side of the road! Please read this brochure to get 'up to speed' with safe roadside viewing etiquette.
Bear Friendly Business Program
This one is also new. Are you a business that does something to reduce negative human-wildlife encounters? We would like to feature your business on our website and send business your way. Check out our homepage for examples and send us your feedback. How can this program benefit you and how can we help you become a bear friendly business?
Peter Mather
Peter Mather