Bear reported at county campground

The Bureau of Land Management, Rawlins Field Office would like to make the public aware that a bear has been reported in the Prior Flat Campground located in Shirley Basin on Aug. 11 digging though the trash cans in the campground.

Here are some tips for you to follow to aid you in having an enjoyable experience with your public land.

Campground and Picnic Area Precautions

• Never cook or store food in or near your tent.

• Hang food and other items with strong odors (e.g., toothpaste, bug repellent, soap, etc.) out of reach of bears. Hang items at least 10 ft.

above the ground. If no trees are available, store your food in airtight or bear-proof containers.

• Change your clothing before you go to sleep; don’t wear what you cooked in to go to bed and be sure to store smelly clothing along with your food/smelly items.

• Keep the area clean. Be sure to wash dishes, dispose of garbage, and wipe down tables.

• Burn garbage completely in a hot fire and pack trash out - don’t bury it.

Backcountry and Trail Precautions

• Don’t surprise bears. If you’re hiking, make your presence known. Make noise by talking loudly, singing or wearing a bell.

• If you can, travel with a group. Groups are noisier and easier for bears to detect.

• Keep in mind that bears tend to be more active at dawn and dusk so plan your hikes accordingly.

• Stay on marked trails and obey the regulations of the area you’re hiking or camping in.

• If you’re hiking in bear country, keep an eye out for tracks, scat, digs and trees that bears have rubbed.

• It is recommended that you leave your dog at home.

If You Encounter a Bear

• Remain calm and avoid sudden movements.

• Give the bear plenty of room, allowing it to continue its activities undisturbed. If it changes its behavior, you’re too close so back away.

• If you see a bear but the bear doesn’t see you, detour quickly and quietly.

• If a bear spots you, try to get its attention while it is still farther away. You want it to know you’re human so talk in a normal voice and waive your arms.

• Remember that a standing bear is not always a sign of aggression. Many times, bears will stand to get a better view.

• Throw something onto the ground (like your camera) if the bear pursues you, as it may be distracted by this and allow you to escape.

• Never feed or throw food to a bear.

For more information, please contact BLM’s Outdoor Recreation Planner, David Hullum, at 307-328-4310