April is Bear Awareness Month

At the beginning of this month, Governor Sean Parnell declared April ‘Bear Awareness’ Month.  That is leading several coalitions around the state to continue their awareness programs and work with residents to remember that this is the time of year when bear wake up and start roaming the area.  The Northern Susitna Valley’s Bear Necessities Coalition is one such group.

[audio:https://ktna.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/20110419BearAware.mp3|titles=20110419BearAware]

Bear Awareness Month
Effective Date: Friday, April 1st, 2011
WHEREAS, Alaska’s wildlife resources are essential to the state’s economic and social well-being, and the wise use of those resources is deeply embedded in the spirit and history of the people who live here; and
WHEREAS, as many of Alaska’s bears emerge from dens in early spring, April is an appropriate time to remind Alaskans about bears, their behavior, and how people can live responsibly in bear country; and
WHEREAS, it is essential for the future of bears in Alaska that people be encouraged to foster a sense of personal responsibility and safety around bears and all wildlife. This can be achieved by responsibly storing and handling bear attractants, practicing outdoor safety, and gaining a greater understanding of Alaskan wildlife; and
WHEREAS, minimizing bear attractants makes our neighborhoods safer, with fewer negative human-bear interactions that are potentially dangerous for both people and bears; and
WHEREAS, as Alaskans, we have a responsibility to instill in ourselves and others a basic understanding of Alaska’s wildlife that will enable us to coexist safely with them; and
WHEREAS, this includes community-based efforts such as educating all Alaskans about how to live responsibly in bear country, minimizing bear attractants around our homes, campsites, cabins and other recreational areas, and encouraging young people to learn about bears and bear safety.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Sean Parnell, Governor of the State of Alaska, do hereby proclaim April 2011 as:
Bear Awareness Month
in Alaska, and encourage Alaskans to educate themselves on the importance of awareness and safety issues surrounding Alaska’s bears and wildlife, thereby helping to ensure the future of our Alaskan wildlife heritage.
Dated: April 1, 2011