The U.S. Forest Service has just announced a five-year extension of the food storage order in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). This order plays a crucial role in keeping bears and people safe by requiring all food and scented items to be stored securely.
This order isn’t new; it has been around for years due to rising bear-human interactions. Last summer, warnings were posted at various entry points, like Lizz and East Bearskin Lakes, where issues with bears had been reported. Forest Service officials emphasize that when bears get used to human food, they continue to seek it out. This habit can lead to dangerous situations, sometimes resulting in bears being euthanized.
The updated order, effective from February 1, 2026, to February 1, 2031, introduces fines of $50 for those who don’t follow the food storage rules. These restrictions apply from April 1 to November 30 each year.
To comply with the order, food must be suspended at least 12 feet off the ground and 6 feet away from trees. Alternatively, people can use bear-resistant containers certified by the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee, except when preparing or consuming food.
Research suggests that proper food storage can significantly reduce bear encounters. A study by the National Park Service noted that areas with enforced food storage guidelines saw a 75% drop in bear incidents compared to those without.
In the digital age, social media has amplified awareness of the issue. Instagram and Twitter are filled with stories and images from canoeists sharing their experiences and tips on effectively storing food in bear country. These conversations serve as a reminder of the balance we must strike when sharing spaces with wildlife.
Maintaining food storage rules not only keeps visitors safe but also protects bears, ensuring they remain wild and unhabituated. For more details about the specific areas affected, you can check the map provided by the U.S. Forest Service here.
By respecting these guidelines, we can all help create a safe environment for both people and bears in the BWCAW.
