GATLINBURG, Tenn.— The City of Gatlinburg, the Smokies BearWise Task Force, the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, Appalachian Bear Rescue, and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park partnered to host an Open House on educating the public and businesses on bear management practices on Tuesday, August 13.
The event hosted over 100 attendees throughout the course of the day and was held at the American Legion Building at City Hall.
“This Bear Management Open House was a vital initiative that brought the Gatlinburg community together to address the unique challenges of living in harmony with wildlife,” said Seth Butler, City of Gatlinburg Director of Operations and Communications. “By fostering open dialogue and sharing best practices, we can ensure the safety of Gatlinburg’s citizens and visitors, in addition to the bears, which are such an integral part of Gatlinburg’s natural beauty. It’s through collaborative efforts, such as this event, that we build a stronger, more informed community.”
The Open House offered individuals the opportunity to procure educational materials, as well as have discussions with wildlife experts on best bear management practices and how to keep themselves and animals safe. BearWise educational literature and signage, including for overnight rentals and lodging companies, was available for the public to receive, as well as the opportunity to visit with TWRA and Gatlinburg Police Department representatives on Ordinances and enforcement. Demonstrations of bear-resistant equipment was available as well. Appalachian Bear Rescue also had representatives on hand.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park wildlife biologist Ryan Williamson also offered a pair of educational presentations on bear behavior.
“The City is appreciative of those who attended this important event which was aimed at educating the public on the overall reduction in human-bear interactions,” said Gatlinburg City Manager Greg Patterson. “Many different agencies were on hand for the event and we appreciate their time and dedication to the mission of helping keep humans and bears safe.”
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