As bear activity increases during warmer months, Alberta Fish and Wildlife is urging residents, campers, and industrial operators to take extra precautions with garbage disposal to help prevent human-bear conflicts.
Improperly stored garbage remains the number one attractant drawing bears into communities, campsites, and worksites. Experts emphasize that managing waste properly not only protects people and property but also helps keep bears in the wild where they belong.
“Once a bear associates humans with food, it can become a repeat visitor, increasing the risk of property damage and dangerous encounters,” officials warn. “Storing garbage securely encourages bears to seek out natural food sources and keeps them away from human-use areas.”
Residents are advised to store garbage indoors, such as in a garage or shed, and only place it at the curb on the morning of collection. Bear-resistant bins are strongly recommended, but they must be properly latched and cleaned regularly to prevent odour buildup.
Municipalities are encouraged to implement bylaws mandating secure storage of garbage and limiting curbside placement times. Centrally located bear-resistant dumpsters may offer a cost-effective, long-term solution to reduce bear access to waste in some communities.
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Outdoor recreationists should use bear-resistant bins where provided, and report full or damaged bins to campsite staff immediately. In the backcountry, all garbage should be sealed in airtight containers and packed out, or burned completely if necessary. Campers using vehicles should store all waste inside their vehicles until it can be properly disposed of.
Industrial camps and waste management facilities are also reminded to follow Alberta Fish and Wildlife’s best practices, including secure fencing around landfills and proper garbage storage systems that prevent bear access.
Officials stress that managing garbage is one of the most effective ways to reduce wildlife conflicts, protect communities, and safeguard Alberta’s bear populations.
For more information and detailed guidelines, visit Alberta Fish and Wildlife’s website or consult their resources on managing waste in bear country.