Title
Proclamation Declaring August 2024 as "Bear Month" in Los Alamos County (accepted by James Robinson, Casey Lundberg and Kristen O'Hara, Pajarito Environmental Education Center)
Body
WHEREAS, Los Alamos is blessed with abundant wildlife, including the majestic American Black Bear; and
WHEREAS, the presence of these bears contributes to the ecological balance and enhances the natural beauty of our area; and
WHEREAS, it is the responsibility of our community to coexist peacefully with wildlife while taking necessary precautions to minimize potential human and bear encounters; and
WHEREAS, five critical bear safety practices should be added to our daily routines and recreational activities. When out in the wilderness, make noise so as not to surprise a bear; stay alert and actively look for signs that a bear may be in the area; never approach or crowd a bear; keep food, garbage, and other attractants out of a bear’s reach; stay calm during a bear encounter, and do not run; and
WHEREAS, we can also reduce the likelihood of bear encounters around the home by removing bird feeders, securing garbage in bear-resistant containers, planting gardens away from game trails, frequently turning compost, and of course, never feeding bears; and
WHEREAS, the Pajarito Environmental Education Center, Land of Enchantment Wildlife Foundation, and Century Bank will host New Mexico’s only annual Bear Festival on August 24th at the Los Alamos Nature Center located at 2600 Canyon Road, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm; and
WHEREAS, local, regional, and state organizations will be present at the Annual Bear Festival to educate the public on how to keep both human and bear populations safe by managing human-wildlife interactions, through engaging with Los Alamos residents and visitors through crafts, games, food, a scavenger hunt, and other activities.
NOW, THEREFORE, on behalf of the Council of the Incorporated County of Los Alamos, I do hereby proclaim August 2024 as
“BEAR MONTH...
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