Hi all

There are many versions of the following article.

"In the light of the rising frequency of human/bear conflicts, the
(Insert local agency here) Department of Fish and Wildlife is advising
hikers, hunters
and fishermen to take extra precautions and keep alert for bears while in
the field.

The use of small, noisy bells attached to clothing is advisable so as not
to startle bears that can't see your approach. Also advisable is that the
outdoorsman carry a good quality pepper spray in case an encounter with a
bear is unavoidable.

It is also wise to be watchful for fresh signs of bear activity.
Outdoorsmen should recognise the difference between black bear and grizzly
bear feces. Black bear feces are smaller and predominantly contain berries
and vegetable material. Grizzly bear feces contain little bells and smell
like pepper."

The post below was is in all seriousness. This one just provides a lighter
side to the same issue.

Roger Craik
Maple Ridge BC


----- Original Message -----
From: Jane Westervelt <jwesterv at uidaho.edu>
To: <tweeters at u.washington.edu>
Sent: Wednesday, 14 July, 1999 2:21 PM
Subject: bears & pepper spray--IGBC recommendations


> I know this is off topic, but prior threads show me that at least
> some tweeters have an interest in this. No, I don't know what
> agencies make up the "interagency" committee, but I can find out for
> anyone who wants to know.
> Jane Westervelt
> Moscow, Id
>
> ___________________________________________________
> Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee
>
> BEAR PEPPER SPRAY POSITION PAPER
>
> Remember: bear pepper spray is not a substitute for following proper
> bear avoidance safety techniques.
>
> Selecting a bear pepper spray:
>
> Purchase only products that are clearly labeled "for deterring attacks
> by bears:"
>
> " ><snipped>

> We are recommending that all federal and state agencies place a high
> consideration on the integrity of a manufacturer's marketing methods
> and determine whether marketing methods bring undue, negative imaging
> of the bear.