Black bear are plentiful on and around campus. While we can, and often do, live harmoniously with these furry neighbors, we must act responsibly and remain vigilant as a community, following the rules that we have in place for a reason. Irresponsible behaviors (crowding or approaching bears, feeding bears, leaving food trash outside, etc.) could not only result in injury to yourself or a community member, but can sometimes result in bears that are so used to humans, and become so habituated that it can get them into trouble. If the N.C. Wildlife Resource Commission folks need to get involved because a bear(s) have become dangerous, from our behavior, it could have fatal results for the bear(s), as re-location is not usually a solution. No one wants that ending.

To report irresponsible behavior or an actively dangerous situation happening at the moment, call Public Safety  828-230-4592 (Or first, 911, for serious injuries.)
To report a bear encounter, after the fact, please use this form.

• These reports are critical for our campus to best understand current bear and human interactions on campus.
• If everyone is safely walking away/staying away from a bear and the bear goes on its way or is minding its own business, everyone can just go about their business and fill out the reporting form.
• If you see a bear on main campus, and it doesn’t warrant calling Public Safety, you can also text the location and circumstance, to our office (828-298-3434) just to flag it, especially if they are getting into trash or such. This would be in addition to the form.
  

Below, is helpful information for living around bear, but here are the key points we implore folks to remember:

• Never corner a bear, always give it an escape route.

• If you see a bear, move in the opposite direction immediately. Do not try to slip past it, and definitely do not stop to take pictures.

• Please DO pay attention to your surroundings. If walking at night or in a wooded area, talk, sing, let bear know you’re there! Neither of you want to surprise each other.
• Don’t run from a bear (face the bear and back away). If needed, make yourself loud and large. If a bear is really uncomfortable with your presence, they will often bluff the start of a “charge” and swipe or jump at the ground. Again, don’t run, just slowly leave, facing the bear if possible. A bear is going to be more likely to be aggressive if food is involved.
• There are two bear-proof trash cans available to you. One is near the Pavilion and one is near the bear tent and food truck area. Do not leave food in your vehicle and be sure to lock your vehicle.

• Bear spray. We know that unfortunately bear spray can be rather expensive (~$40), but it is a worthwhile cost versus your, your pets’, and bears’ safety. The most affordable source we’ve found in the Asheville area is at Sportsman’s Warehouse, however you can find it at any outdoor store.

 

  BearWISE.org