CPW concerned about increased bear conflict, asks public to 'do their part'

DENVER (KDVR) — Wildlife authorities are pleading for Coloradans to "do their part" and help reduce human-bear conflict.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife said in a release Friday that it has seen a "considerable increase in human-bear conflict in July, a worrisome trend well ahead of hyperphagia," particularly in the southwestern area of the state.

"We've had more than 300 bear incident reports to our Durango office already this year," CPW Southwest Region spokesperson John Livingston told FOX31 in an email.

CPW said they have also seen conflicts in Cedaredge, Gunnison, Montrose, Ouray and Ridgway.

This year, Livingston said there have been cases of bears entering tents at campsites, entering occupied and unoccupied homes and vehicles, and even bears involved in livestock conflicts.

"All of these are concerning, and many can be avoided by keeping clean camps, not leaving doors and windows open and properly securing attractants...