Daniel Boone National Forest issues food storage order due to bears

With a growing population of black bears in eastern Kentucky, the Daniel Boone National Forest, which includes the Red River Gorge Geological Area, has issued a food storage order for campers and other visitors. The order is applicable forest-wide.

“Our highest priority is public safety,” said Forest Supervisor Frank Beum. “Our visitors can help ensure their safety by not allowing bears to have access to human food or garbage.”

Campers in developed sites must store food, garbage and other odorous items that may attract bears in a bear-resistant container, inside their vehicle, or in an enclosed hard-body trailer.

Backcountry campers must suspend food, garbage and odorous items at least 10 feet off the ground and four feet away from any tree or pole.

All food leftovers and trash must be properly disposed of in a bear-resistant trash receptacle or other container where provided by the Forest Service. The burning or burying of food trash is prohibited.

Odorous items that may attract bears include food, garbage, soap, toothpaste and other scented substances.

In Kentucky, it is against the law to intentionally or unintentionally feed a bear. The public should report nuisance bears and any bear exhibiting aggressive behavior by calling 1-800-25-ALERT.


Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com