Encouraging Bear Safety News From the City of Gatlinburg

Lately, the rise of bear incidents in Gatlinburg have sparked concerns from locals and tourists. Several bears have been put down as a result of these incidents, and I myself have seen more than usual roaming around. It’s encouraging to see the city begin to do more to alleviate the problem, although I believe more will continue to be done. Let’s get into the nuts and bolts of the actions Gatlinburg is taking to ensure the safety of humans and bears.

Firstly, more signage is being posted, reminding those that it’s illegal to feed the bears, and also informing local businesses to secure their trash in accordance with the new ordinance involving the proper and necessary bear-proof receptacles. If businesses aren’t compliant, the fine is $50 (set by the State Constitution and enforced by the City of Gatlinburg), plus court costs. The Tennessee Wildlife Resource Agency (TWRA) enforces the illegal feeding of bears, which will result in fines and possible community service.

The City of Gatlinburg has also announced some educational campaigns to assist in bear safety, with assistance from the Gatlinburg Police and Fire Department. These are the initiatives they are involved in:

• Police Department: Officers visited downtown businesses with handouts to remind owners and managers about the city’s animal-resistant container requirements.

• Fire Department: The department, which oversees the City’s Tourist Residency Program, visited property rental companies and individual rental owners to provide information on making their properties BearWise® and educating renters on bear safety.

The following BearWise Basics has been released to help property owners, which will, in turn, hopefully be passed along to visitors so they can use the best judgement necessary if they encounter a bear in the area. Here are the six BearWise Basics:

• Never feed or approach bears.

• Secure food, garbage and recycling.

• Remove bird feeders when bears are active.

• Never leave pet food outside.

• Clean and store grills.

• Know what to do if you see a bear. Black bears are seldom aggressive and attacks are rare, but if you see a bear before it notices you stand still, don’t approach and enjoy the moment; then move away quietly in the opposite direction. If you encounter a bear that is aware of you, don’t run, as running may trigger a chase response. Back away slowly. Make sure bears are not cornered and have an escape route during any encounters.

Please go to the BearWise website for a wealth of information on the topic of bear safety. It’ll only take about 15-20 minutes of your time, and you’ll come away much smarter, and maybe a little more sensitive to the survival of these precious animals.

Photo taken from the BearWise website.

I know many of you are asking what has taken so long, and I understand this reaction. But we can’t look behind us; we can only look forward now. And the fact the City of Gatlinburg and TWRA, in tandem, are taking this seriously, is vital and extremely encouraging. It’s a positive step, but I believe more can be done to deter the ignorance we’ve been seeing on social media channels lately about what NOT to do when it comes to bear encounters. I won’t get into that, though. I encourage you all to share and read this important information which will benefit the bears and help us coexist without harm to any of us.

Thank you for reading and subscribing to my publication! I hope this intelligence helps you when visiting the Smokies, or if you already live here, let’s help spread the word! Stay tuned for more news, events, anecdotes, and personal stories regarding my Gatlinburg home real soon!