Bear worries close popular campground

COEUR d'ALENE — Starting tomorrow, Graham Creek, a popular area for dispersed camping, is closed to public use. Graham Creek is located approximately 14 miles northbound on Forest Highway 9. Graham Creek is closed to protect public safety as a result of frequent bear encounters in the area.

Although many campers in the area have responded positively to Forest Service employees' efforts to educate visitors on recreating in bear country, the bear continues to make regular visits to various camps within the area. "While most people are storing their food and trash properly, we have a situation that could potentially turn dangerous if the bear continues to return and becomes habituated to encounters with humans. By removing food and trash from the area, our goal is to protect both the visitors and the bears by discouraging the bears from returning," says Kimberly Johnson, Deputy District Ranger.

There have been numerous bear sightings on the Coeur d'Alene River Ranger District this spring and summer. "This situation is a reminder that visitors on the National Forest are recreating in bear country, and there are basic precautions that should always be taken. Campers are in the bears' habitat when they camp on National Forest lands," adds Johnson. When camping in bear country keep a clean camp, secure food and trash in bear-proof containers or a vehicle at all times, and keep pets under control at all times. More helpful information for campers can be found at BeBearAware.org.

For more information, please contact the Coeur d'Alene River Ranger District: Fernan (208) 664-2318 or Smelterville (208) 783-2363 for the most current information on forest and road conditions.