Feeding a grizzly bear French fries along Highway 93 South in Kootenay National Park has landed one person in court. The incident occurred at about 2 p.m.
Feeding a grizzly bear French fries along Highway 93 South in Kootenay National Park has landed one person in court.
The incident occurred at about 2 p.m. on Sunday (May 28) in an area where Parks Canada had implemented its annual mandatory no-stopping zone because of bear activity a few hours earlier.
Parks Canada officials say feeding wildlife is extremely dangerous, for both people and bears, noting bears that become accustomed to human food pose a public safety risk.
Tania Peters, a Parks Canada spokesperson, said a witness made the report, leading to charges under the Canada National Parks Act for feeding wildlife and ignoring the no-stopping zone. They could face a fine of up to $25,000 in court.
“The bear was fed French fries. That kind of behaviour is unacceptable and we have an absolutely zero tolerance of bears being fed,” she said. “We really need the public’s support to keep bears and people safe.”
Early season greenup and dandelions along the 11-kilometre stretch of highway between McKay Compound and Cobb Lake sees a concentration of bears as they emerge from hibernation.
Parks wildlife staff and law enforcement wardens, with the help of RCMP, will patrol the area to make sure people are complying with the non-stopping zone.
“The no-stopping zone is in place to keep bears, motorists, visitors and staff safe and to allow bears to feed undisturbed,” said Peters.
“We’re asking people to be very vigilant and ensure they’re doing their part to keep wildlife safe.”
The Olive Lake day use area is also closed. So too is the southbound brake check station, with the exception of commercial vehicles.
People can report any incidents, such as feeding wildlife, to Banff park dispatch at 403-762-1470.
