Eagle River Brown Bears Prompt Schools Safety Advisory

(Eagle River) – The Alaska Department of Fish and Game is aware of a brown bear sow and three cubs frequenting Eagle River neighborhoods on both sides of the river, particularly from West Parkview Terrace to Banff Springs Street.

Parents who have children walking to neighborhood elementary, middle, and high schools or standing at school bus stops should take precautions including considering providing alternate transportation to schools to avoid students walking through neighborhoods in early morning or evening hours.

The bears are targeting trash. Because brown bears can be aggressive when defending food sources including trash, it is important that people avoid approaching them. Eagle River residents are asked to secure their trash indoors or in bear-resistant containers. If a bear is attracted to unsecured trash, the resident can receive a $310 citation.

The department is actively working to mitigate public safety concerns with regard to these bears.

People should report any sightings to ADFG at https://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=reportwildlifeencounter.main or phone 267-2257. If the bears present an immediate public safety threat, call 911 immediately.

For educational materials about bear safety, see //www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=educators.wildlifesafety or visit //www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=livingwithbears.main