By Ylice Golden|Published on 9/11/2025
Keeping Bears (and Neighbors) Safe in the Roaring Fork Valley
Bears are still actively foraging across our valley. Here’s how homeowners, property managers, and HOAs can reduce conflicts and keep wildlife wild.
Late-season foraging brings bears closer to neighborhoods. Let’s keep them safe – and wild.
Why Bears Are Still Active
Colorado’s black bears remain active into late fall, entering a period called hyperphagia – they eat almost nonstop to build fat for winter. When natural foods (like berries and acorns) are scarce, bears turn to the easiest calories available: unsecured trash, bird feeders, fallen fruit, pet food, and grills.
- Hyperphagia: Bears may attempt to consume ~20,000 calories per day to prepare for winter.
- Incredible noses: Odors can draw bears from far away once rewarded, they remember and return.
- Community factor: One unsecured home can train bears to revisit an entire block.
Bear-Safe Practices for Every Home
AttractantWhat to Do Trash & Compost: Use wildlife-resistant containers or store indoors until collection morning. Rinse bins to reduce odors. Bird Feeders & Pet Food: Pause bird feeders while bears are active. Feed pets indoors store feed in airtight containers. Fruit Trees & Gardens: Pick fruit promptly clean up windfalls daily. Consider electric fencing for gardens, coops, and beehives. Garages, Cars & Doors: Keep vehicle windows up and doors locked. Close garage doors lock ground-level doors and windows. Grills & Outdoor Kitchens: Scrub grills after each use, empty grease traps, and store grills inside when possible.
On the Trail: Simple Safety
- Hike in groups, make noise near creeks and brushy areas, and keep dogs leashed.
- Carry bear spray and know how to use it.
- Give bears space never approach for photos or to ‘shoo’ a bear away.
Why This Matters
When bears get human food, they lose their natural caution and may damage property or become aggressive. Habituated bears are more likely to be relocated— or euthanized. Reducing attractants protects wildlife, homes, and the special character of our valley.
Take Action Today
- Walk your property and remove attractants (trash, feeders, fallen fruit, food odors).
- Coordinate with your HOA and neighbors – community consistency is key.
- Report dangerous encounters or injured wildlife to Colorado Parks & Wildlife.
Helpful Resources
- Roaring Fork Valley Bear Coalition – local tips and tools, including free posters and door hangers
- Download the RFBC Bear Awareness Poster (PDF)
- Colorado Parks & Wildlife: Living with Bears
- LivingWithBears.com: Year-Round Bear-Proofing Tips
- CPW: Fall Reminder to Secure Trash & Food Sources
- BearWise – The bear experts of North America.