GRAND ISLAND, MI— Officials with the Hiawatha National Forest want visitors to Grand Island to be bear-aware this summer.
They say bear activity near recreation sites is not unusual on the island, including around campgrounds and picnic areas.
To minimize the likelihood of bear encounters, officials say watch for bear signs—like scat or tracks—near campsites; reduce the amount of food odors and waste as much as possible; never intentionally feed a bear; don’t keep food and toiletries in tents; don’t sleep in clothes that have cooking odors or liquids on them; store trash as you would food; and use caution to avoid surprising bears. Be extra aware when approaching blind curves, dense vegetation, or noisy streams where a bear may not see, hear, or smell you approaching. Speaking in a louder voice than normal or whistling can allow a bear to hear you approaching.
