We have learned from our mistakes
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TweetWhen 44 bears were killed in defense of life and property in 2020, the bear population took a huge hit and it will be years before they recover. This was devastating and the ecological tolls will be felt for many years, indirectly impacting the lifestyles that we so cherish in the Chilkat Valley. However, I’m pleased to see the residents of our valley learning from our mistakes. Thanks to the Chilkat Valley Historical Society and the Rasmuson Foundation, community members installed electric fences around bear attractants. It’s wonderful to drive through town and see more electric fences than ever before around fruit trees, gardens, and composts. If you weren’t able to get an electric fence through this grant opportunity, don’t worry! The Defenders of Wildlife have an electric fence reimbursement program and you can apply to get up to 50% back on your electric fence. Visit http://www.defenders.org/got-grizzlies to learn more. I also want to give a shout out to all the community members who’ve participated in Takshanuk Watershed Council’s Apples and Bears Program. Thank you to the homeowners who have welcomed volunteers onto their property to help remove fruit before it becomes an unwanted bear attractant, and to the volunteers for getting out there and making it happen! This is truly a community effort and I’m proud to be part of a community that actively works towards positive solutions. If you want to participate in the Apples and Bears program or learn more, please email tracy@takshanuk.org.
Thank you,
Tracy Wirak-Cassidy, Education Coordinator
Takshanuk Watershed Council
