KALISPELL – September is Bear Aware Month, and Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks staff will host open "bear aware office hours," on set days in September in Kalispell. Stop by any time during these office hours at the Kalispell FWP office for bear safety tips and to practice with inert bear spray.
- Tuesday, September 8 (3-5 p.m.)
- Tuesday, September 15 (3-5 p.m.)
- Tuesday, September 22 (3-5 p.m.)
- Tuesday, September 29 (3-5 p.m.)
FWP bear education technician, Anna Martin, will be available to discuss bear safety practices, how to handle bear encounters, and how to avoid attracting bears to your property. Participants will also have a chance to practice using inert bear spray on request.
Bears can be found throughout Montana. Be "bear aware" by following these steps:
- Carry bear spray where it's easily accessible and know how to use it.
- Stay alert and watch for signs of bear activity, especially in areas with limited visibility.
- Travel in groups and keep members close together.
- Make noise to avoid surprising a bear, especially in dense vegetation or near running water.
- Avoid traveling at night, dawn, or dusk.
- Steer clear of carcass sites or areas with scavenger activity.
For more information on bear safety, visit fwp.mt.gov/bear-aware.