REMINDER TO RECREATE SAFELY ON THE CUSTER GALLATIN NATIONAL FOREST.

Bozeman, MT, July 20, 2023 – With grizzly bears expanding into areas where they typically haven’t been seen or are uncommon, the Custer Gallatin National Forest reminds visitors to BE BEAR AWARE and practice proper food storage…

On the Custer Gallatin Forest, five of the seven Ranger Districts [Bozeman, Hebgen Lake, Gardiner, Yellowstone, & Beartooth] implement an annual food storage order from MARCH 1 through DECEMBER 1.

APPROPRIATE STORAGE OF ATTRACTANTS INCLUDES:

• Hard-sided vehicles or trailers
• Approved bear-resistant containers or other approved products, certified by the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee or
• Hung at least 10 feet above the ground and 4 feet away from a tree/pole, out of reach of wildlife

Attractants include items such as scented toiletries like toothpast, deodorants, pet food, certain horse pellets.  all beverages except water are included, as are emply food & beverage containers.

It is also important to remembwer general bear safety in bear country.  Carry bear spray and have it readily accessible, travel in groups, make lots of noise, and watch for signs of bears in the area, and hike during daylight hours.  Keeping a clean camp is essential for your safety, the safety of other forest users, and wildlife.

For more info on bear safety and details regarding the food storage order, visit online at  https://www.fs.usda.gov/main/custergallatin