Authorities are hoping that humans and dogs can welcome a family of black bears to the Mashiter trail.
Squamish’s WildSafeBC community co-ordinator says a mother bear and two yearlings are frequenting a portion of that trail.
“They have been feeding on grass in the area and have most likely hunkered down due to the food and water nearby,” said Meg Toom in an email to The Chief.
The Conservation Officer Service is concerned about off-leash dogs in that zone, so authorities are putting up signage on the trail where the family has been seen.
“We'll put up barricades on either ends of the area, not to close the trail, but to delineate the area,” said Toom. “We have signs and spare leashes for those who might have forgotten theirs.”
She said the goal is to give the bear family a chance live "wild" and to reduce the potential for conflict.
If dogs harass the family, the potential for conflict will increase and it could become an unsafe situation.
Barriers and signage are expected to go up within the next two days.
