The US Forest Service is making an effort to eliminate the accidental feeding of bears in the backcountry by selling and renting bear canisters to hikers and backpackers.
While most backpackers know that you are not supposed to feed bears, improper food storage over time has resulted in bears foraging in campsites for an easy meal. The Carson Ranger District in Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest is combating this problem by selling the cans for $75 or renting them for $2.50 a day with a $82 refundable deposit.
Although bear cans are not required in Humboldt-Toiyabe NF, surrounding areas like Yosemite National Park and Inyo National Forest both require them. Their effectiveness has been touted by agency spokewoman Lindsay Pulliam, saying that bears that spot the bear canisters in a camp have walked away rather than investigate further.
-via The Goat
Looking for more about bear safety? Read our article: Bear Safety While on the Trail
