The City of Boulder has announced a new measure designed to protect the local bear population and reduce human-wildlife conflicts. Starting August 15 and scheduled through to December 1, dog owners will be required to have their pets on a leash in several Open Space and Mountain Parks (OSMP) areas. According to the City of Boulder, these areas include portions of the Gregory Canyon, Saddle Rock, and Amphitheater trails, among others. The leash requirement is a seasonal adjustment aimed at minimizing disturbances during a time when bears are preparing for hibernation by foraging for food in open spaces near trails.
The city’s Voice and Sight Tag Program typically allows dogs to roam free on many OSMP trails, but with the presence of wildlife, especially during active bear seasons, the rules are changing. Already warned to always leash their dogs in the presence of wildlife, community members walking off-leash during active bear season are putting their dogs and bears at an increased risk. The upcoming enforcement aligns with the bears' need to bulk up before winter and minimizes the chances of dog-bear encounters that can have dangerous outcomes for all parties involved.
On top of the leash requirements, Boulder residents are urged to help protect bears by ensuring that their trash containers are locked. Bears that come into town and find accessible food sources can face dire consequences, including the risk of getting killed by vehicles, ingesting harmful substances, or being euthanized by wildlife officers due to a loss of natural fear towards humans. The City of Boulder news release emphasizes the importance of responsible trash management to prevent these scenarios.
In addition to following the new regulations, residents who see a bear in the wild are encouraged to stay calm, keep a safe distance, and back away slowly while facing the bear. If an attack occurs, which is rare with black bears, people are advised to fight back with whatever means available. An official statement by the city recommends putting dogs on leashes even on trails without a mandate, to provide additional protection for the dogs. Furthermore, people are reminded not to litter and to use bear-proof trash cans whenever available to safeguard the bears' health and well-being.
