Bear Encounters Reported in Pisgah Ranger District

The USDA Forest Service in North Carolina issued the following alert today with regards to bears in the Pisgah Ranger District (south of Asheville):

Several reports of encounters with black bears have been reported recently on the Pisgah Ranger District in the vicinity of Graveyard Fields, North Mills River and Wash Creek areas. Campers, hikers and others visiting the national forests should practice safety at all times as bears appear to be especially active this year. The public is encouraged to prevent bear interactions by taking the following steps:

* Clean up food or garbage around fire rings, grills or other areas of your campsite.
Keep food in secure containers and do not leave food unattended.

* If you encounter a bear – never run. Back up slowly and make noise so the bear knows you’re there.

These are just a few safety tips. Click here to read a more detailed safety checklist for black bears.



Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com