Bear sightings jump as fire-closed Central Okanagan parks reopen

CENTRAL OKANGAN – The bears have had some of the natural parks in regional district to themselves for some time, closed as they were to the public because of fire hazard.

But the Central Okanagan Regional District says bear sightings are on the rise in several newly reopened interface parks as the animals intensify their search for food ahead of winter.

Evidence of bears is already occuring in the Mission Park Greenway, Mission Creek and Scenic Canyon regional parks, regional district communications officer Bruce Smith said, in a press release

Smith said park staff and visitors have already reported increased bear encounters and he urged park users to take proper precautions, including travelling in a group, making noise and being aware of their surroundings near creeks and orchards.

Avoiding encounters is key and dog owners should remember their responsibility to keep their pets on leash and on trail at all times, Smith said.

You can take in an inert bear spray demonstration and nature walk 9:30 a.m to 12:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 17 at Rose Valley Regional Park. Contact Andrea Tait at okwestside@wildsafebc.com to register for this event.

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