Bear activity on the rise in Southwest Reno, officials urge residents to be BearWise

An increase in bear activity has been reported in Southwest Reno, prompting local authorities to remind residents to be BearWise. The Washoe County Sheriff's Office is collaborating with the Nevada Department of Wildlife to educate the community on how to coexist safely with bears.

Washoe County has implemented a garbage ordinance requiring residents to secure their trash to prevent bears and other wildlife from accessing it. Residents can request bear-resistant containers from Waste Management to comply with this regulation.

Authorities have provided six essential tips to help keep wildlife wild and ensure community safety:

• Never feed or approach bears
• Secure food, garbage, and recycling
• Remove bird feeders when bears are active
• Never leave pet food outdoors
• Clean and store grills and smokers
• Alert neighbors to bear activity

For more information on living safely with bears, residents are encouraged to visit bearwise.org or ndow.org/blog/living-with-bears/.