Increased bear exercise closes a number of East Anchorage trails

Several East Anchorage trails are indefinitely closed resulting from elevated bear exercise, officers introduced Tuesday.

The closures influence about 2.5 miles of common biking, working and strolling trails in Far North Bicentennial Park and the Campbell Tract, together with the Rover’s Run, Viewpoint and Salmon Run trails.

Cory Stantorf, a biologist with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, stated the choice got here after path customers reported extra run-ins with bears round Campbell Creek, although none resulted in accidents.

“Between the increase in salmon numbers, the increase in bear activities and, on top of that, we’ve had two bluff charges involving brown bears and trail users — it warranted that trail being closed for public safety,” he stated.

Stantorf stated it isn’t unusual for bear exercise to extend round salmon streams in late summer season. But, this yr, increased salmon numbers are producing extra bear exercise, and rising the possibility for damaging encounters.

“In general, brown bears do defend food sources and cubs from people,” Stantorf stated, “and that’s where we start seeing the interactions, where brown bears make contact with people.”

Ellen Devine, with Anchorage Parks and Recreation, stated her division is working with space biologists and the Bureau of Land Management to make sure public security on the paths.

“We urge the public to just respect the closures at this time,” Devine stated. “While you’re out recreating in Anchorage, just know that everywhere is bear country in Anchorage, so be sure to play it safe and review your bear safety guidelines.”

Devine stated she’s unsure but when the paths will reopen. In the meantime, she stated, Anchorage residents ought to keep away from areas with salmon-bearing streams and apply bear security, together with touring in teams, making noise and carrying a deterrent.