Alberta Grizzly Bear Recovery Plan 2008-2013 - Alberta Sustainable ...

used to evaluate and possibly recalibrate population estimates. New database estimates can also
serve to set new benchmarks for population trend monitoring over time. Eventually, less
expensive and labour-intensive methods of estimating population size should be explored.
Determining the provincial grizzly bear population size and trend is critical for conservation and
management.
6.2.2 Monitor grizzly bear mortality, health and recruitment data
Collect and review mortality data, problem bear records and summaries, new grizzly bear health
data, and available recruitment data in a comprehensive database to evaluate recovery and
ongoing sustainability of provincial grizzly bear populations. These data will be used to track
and analyse the efficacy of management activities and the influence of human activities on
grizzly bears. In addition, a standardized provincial bear handling protocol (under development)
will ensure suitable data are collected consistently, while minimizing risk to bears.
6.3 Reduce Human/Bear Conflicts
This strategy addresses Objective 3 (‘conflicts’), and supports Objective 1 (‘mortality’). Conflict
management necessitates a twofold approach, to address behaviours of both people and grizzly
bears. Many actions under this strategy will be applied on a provincial basis, and others will be
implemented by Regional Teams to effectively address local issues (i.e., grizzly bear behaviour
management).
6.3.1 Work with people to reduce conflicts with grizzly bears
Actions under this strategy are directed at people who live and/or are active in grizzly bear range
to reduce the potential for conflict. These activities will be supported through an education
program (see 6.4).
6.3.2 Manage grizzly bear behaviour
Several jurisdictions have had success recently with aversive conditioning as a means of
managing bear behaviour. Techniques ranging from noisemakers, rubber bullets, electric fence
systems, and the use of dogs are being used to condition bears and in some cases even alter
unwanted bear behaviour. Management activities directed at influencing bear behaviour are
necessary, particularly in areas with high conflict rates. Actions under this strategy will direct
Regional Teams to identify local issues and to develop and initiate management programs
accordingly. Refer to Table 2 for regional breakdown of issues and primary sources of mortality
(see also Appendix 6 for maps of conflict and mortality rates).
6.4 Improve and Deliver Education and Outreach Programs to Enhance Grizzly Bear
Conservation
This strategy addresses elements of all objectives, and supports Strategies 6.1 and 6.3.
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