07/31/2024
The recent euthanization of a grizzly bear outside the North Entrance to Yellowstone has again stirred the conversation around management of a species that can potentially cost property damage and threaten injury, while also generating intrinsic and economic value.
Part of the conservation success story of the grizzly bear is that the population continues to grow, increasing the likelihood that residents and visitors will encounter the species more often. This is advantageous to business owners and employees in Park County who earn their livelihood in a $500 million tourism economy that depends on viewing wildlife. However, the lack of bear proof infrastructure and human habits have created human safety issues, have had fatal consequences for bears and threaten sustainable livelihoods.
It is profitable to tolerate and live with a species like grizzly bears. In a study with the United States Geological Survey, economists found that “an individual grizzly bear sighting is approximately $16 while an individual black bear sighting is worth $14.” If only half of Yellowstone’s annual visitors saw a grizzly bear, they would be part of an estimated $50 million contribution to the local economy.
A habituated bear is often subject to euthanization like the bear we witnessed last week in the Gardiner area. However, the spectacle was preventable and it is our responsibility as stewards of this landscape to be good neighbors to humans and wildlife alike.
One way you can be part of the conservation success story and keep our communities safe is by supporting bear tolerant businesses who have taken on the responsibility to protect grizzly bears that our livelihoods depend on.
Spend at Bear Safe Businesses: https://www.wildlivelihoods.com/business-members
USGS Study: https://www.usgs.gov/centers/fort-collins-science-center/news/how-much-grizzly-window
Yellowstonian article: https://yellowstonian.org/death-of-a-junkie-yellowstone-griz-769-killed-by-human-trash-dealers/
