Because you never know when you might run into a bear!

American black bears disappeared from Rhode Island and much of New England following colonization, but with populations in surrounding states growing, Rhode Island will soon see their return.

Already, black bear sightings are becoming more frequent and concerns about encounters are common. If communities can come together and integrate bear-conscious strategies, we can avoid problems with bears in advance of their establishment.

This session will address what to do when encountering a bear, how to avoid drawing bears to your yard, and highlight the Division’s collaborative project with the University of Rhode Island on black bear in the state. This FREE program will be presented in partnership with the Greenville Library.