Bill Kinyoun (541) 888-5515 or Meghan Collins (541) 440-3353
Fax: (541) 673-0372

ROSEBURG – The coastal black bear population is thriving, and the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife wants to help residents learn how to live with the bruins. Several workshops around the area will provide practical advice on living responsibly in bear country.

Agency wildlife biologists Stuart Love and Bill Kinyoun will lead the two-hour workshops where attendees will learn how to prevent bears from becoming a nuisance and what to do if encountered by a bear. Love and Kinyoun will also explain agency wildlife damage statutes and rules.

“Living Responsibly in Bear Country” workshops are scheduled for 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. at the following dates and locations:

1. February 28, Reedsport City Council Chambers, 451 Winchester Ave., Reedsport
2. March 6 – Lakeside City Council Chambers, 915 North Lake Road, Lakeside
3. March 8 – North Bay School Library, 93670 Viking Lane, Hauser
4. March 13 – North Bend Library, 1800 Sherman Ave., North Bend

The mission of the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is to protect and enhance Oregon's fish and wildlife and their habitats for use and enjoyment by present and future generations. The agency consists of the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission, a commission-appointed director and a statewide staff of approximately 950 permanent employees. Headquartered in Salem, ODFW has regional offices in Clackamas, Roseburg, Bend, and La Grande with ten district offices located throughout the state. For additional information, please visit www.dfw.state.or.us.