May is the time to remind all forest visitors how to enjoy our wildlife treasures, especially bears, safely and responsibly. Spring is when bears and cubs emerge from their winter dens, wildflowers are blooming, songbirds are building nests, and children are exploring the great outdoors. By now families and school teachers are planning outdoor activities. This is also the time when human conflicts with wildlife may increase. The southeast states experienced a late frost, damaging flowering plants. Wild berries and acorns that bears depend on for food, might be in short supply this summer and fall. Hungry bears may be looking in campgrounds, picnic areas, and neighborhoods to find food.
Local events to inform others of the latest safety techniques to use when enjoying wildlife and bears are being held by Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts across the nation. Educational materials and an instructor's guide to help employees and the public be more bear aware have been sent throughout the Forest Service.