Human-Bear Conflicts

Garbage

Photo by Dave Huff

Access to garbage annually accounts for approximately 70% of all nuisance complaints received by the KDFWR.  As such, garbage is the most abundant and widely distributed attractant available to bears.  Following these guidelines will significantly reduce the potential for human-bear conflicts at your residence.

• Do not store garbage or other potential foods outside as odors will attract bears.
   

• Do not leave garbage on a deck or porch, even if it is screened; doing so will only result in a bear on your deck or a torn screen.
   

• Do not leave trash in the back of pick-up trucks as commonly results in damage to the vehicle.
   

• Put out garbage the day of pick-up, rather than the night before; this will significantly reduce access to food.
   

• If garbage must be left outside, store in a sturdy building or in a bear-resistant container.
   

• Lobby your local municipal government for the use of bear-resistant containers.