In case you were wondering.. Re: Louisiana Black Bear Season

This was my message to Kelly Purkey, the manager of Tensas National Wildlife Refuge a couple of days ago.

quote:

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Hello Kelly,

I am an avid hunter and outdoorsman in the Tensas Refuge area. Obviously, over the last few years, we have seen a drastic increase in the bear population. And while they're a beautiful creature and somewhat unique and essential to our ecosystem, I also understand there are aspects of conservation that should be implemented. Im writing to inquire about a potential season, what is the most likely scenario for the season (primitive only, lottery, short season, etc), and when can the public expect a plan to be established.

I understand the emphasis placed on the conservation and preservation of this species, but also think there is a point at which you have to place priority on the safety of your visitors. With the restrictions placed on the caliber weapon you are allowed to legally carry during a large portion of the year, someone could seriously find themselves in a situation, given the right variables. I've personally had a sow with 2 cubs become aggressive towards me while scouting. I was walking down the edge of a thicket when 2 cubs suddenly bolted up a tree near me. Before I knew it, the sow was literally standing 15 feet away from me in a hardwood bottom. She huffed, stomped and popped her jaws, while I slowly backed away. I know you are probably bombarded with calls and emails from local farmers, as half of my family farms that region and I know they complain. But if you would, please take a moment to update me with the latest on this issue. Appreciate your time and effort.

Tks, Brgds
Chalice

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quote:

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Hi Chalice-

Thank you for your professional, well-thought out email. Yes, I do get a lot, and they are not always as nice as yours. I agree that the bear population has increased and we are having more and more bear encounters by our users. However, the issue isn't whether we want to have a season or not. The Louisiana black bear (a subspecies of the American black bear) was federally protected as "Threatened" in 1993. A recovery plan was written and our bear is federally protected under the Endangered Species Act until all criteria in the plan have been met. We have been doing research for the last 15 years, so all hopes are that very soon (I've stopped trying to guess. Could be 2 years could be 5 years?) we will have enough data to show that all of the recovery criteria have been met and we can de-list this species. Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is the lead agency and they have made de-listing one of their #1 priorities. I know they would like to offer hunting opportunities to the public once the federal protection has been lifted.

In the meantime, we are trying to step up our outreach. We are currently advising those using the refuge to carry "bear spray." I know folks would prefer to carry a gun, but there is a lot of evidence that the bear spray is far more effective than those that carry guns from data out west. We went to a "bear attack" training and even a retired police officer didn't have enough time to pull his gun when a bear attacked, however, the bear spray can be sprayed at long distances and you don't have to worry about missing. I encourage you to use it, too. Our bears need to have some negative experiences.

So for now, just be vigilant and aware. I wish I had more options for you, but legally we are doing all we can. I appreciate your email and please feel free to contact me with other questions and concerns. I hope you will still continue to enjoy the refuge.

Sincerely,
Kelly

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Looks like it may be a couple of years, but I will soon have a black bear skin rug in my man cave. I will be trading out bear hunts for the oh-so-elusive saltwater fishing adventure.