As warmer weather arrives, Colorado Parks and Wildlife is reminding residents to take precautions as bears emerge from hibernation.
With spring underway, bears are beginning to leave their dens—and they often return to places where they previously found easy access to human-provided food. This increases the likelihood of encounters in residential areas.
Wildlife officials are urging residents to take simple steps to reduce attractants, including:
- Securing trash in bear-resistant containers
- Removing bird feeders
- Keeping pet food stored indoors
In addition to public awareness efforts, CPW has announced a new round of grant funding aimed at reducing human-bear conflicts. The agency is offering $1 million in funding through a program designed to support proactive, community-based solutions.
Grants are available to local governments, homeowners associations, community groups, businesses, and individuals. Applications can be found on the CPW website and must be submitted by May 29.
Officials say these combined efforts are key to keeping both residents and wildlife safe during the active spring and summer months.
