RBC I Park rangers have reopened two river campsites at Pot Creek, which are located along the Green River in the Canyon of the Lodore. The campsites had been closed due to bear activity in the area.
On June 24, a rafting group reported to the Echo Park Ranger that they encountered a bear at Pot Creek Campsite No. 2 the previous night. According to reports, the bear managed to acquire some packaged food. Members in the group reported that the bear charged several individuals and was not deterred by throwing rocks. No one was harmed during the incident.
Following the monument’s bear management plan and in consultation with Colorado Parks and Wildlife, when human-bear interactions such as this occur, one of the first steps is to close the area to visitors to prevent further encounters. The Pot Creek campsites were closed and have been patrolled by rangers for signs of the bear since June 26. In the three weeks since, there have been no sightings.
All monument visitors are reminded to store food, garbage, camp coolers and other items with a scent that can attract bears in hard-sided vehicles, a latchable hard-sided container or in bear-proof storage boxes.
Hikers, boaters and campers are encouraged to be alert and report bear sightings as soon as possible at a visitor center or ranger station. Visitors should remember the following tips:
Hike in a group, keep children in sight and close by, make noise; Keep a clean camp, use bear-proof boxes to store food, toiletries, and garbage. Wash your dishes; Never leave food unattended, even for a minute; Do not burn food or trash in fire rings; Keep vehicle windows and doors locked and closed at all times; and Never approach or feed any wildlife.
If you see a bear, back away slowly and leave area and make noise so the bear knows you are there.
If a bear approaches you: Face the bear, back away slowly, do not run; Stand tall, appear large, wave arms or jacket; Group together, pick up small children; Make noise, throw things, and try to scare it off; and Fight back aggressively and use bear spray if the bear attacks.
For more information, call 435-781-7700, or visit www.nps.gov/dino.
