County encourages participation in CPW's NeighBEARhood ambassador program

El condado fomenta la participaciĆ³n en el programa de embajadores CuidadOSOs de CPW

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Emily Seddon

Natural Resource Planner

emily.seddon@eaglecounty.us

970-328-8636


March 20, 2024 - Eagle County is partnering with Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) to promote a pledge-based NeighBEARhood ambassador program, encouraging the public to take pragmatic steps in adopting best practices to reduce human - bear conflicts. The campaign intends to raise awareness for both locals and visitors about achievable safety measures, engaging many diverse demographic groups in the region. The campaign creatively addresses the marketing and messaging needs to overcome barriers and spark change.


Members of the public can opt in to become a NeighBEARhood ambassador by visiting the ambassador landing page and taking a pledge to follow safety measures by filling out a form on the page. Committed individuals will then receive a toolkit with graphics, videos, social media templates, an email signature template, and flyers. The ambassador program and marketing materials are available in both English and Spanish. 


The NeighBEARhood program is another example of a results-driven partnership with CPW. Last fall, Eagle County matched a grant offered by the agency for a total sum of $12,500 to purchase and distribute bear-proof receptacles around the county for public use. Edwards Metro District also contributed. In total, eight metal bear-proof trash cans were distributed to four high-traffic locations as a result of the partnership. The county is also working with local waste management companies to provide opportunities for customers to acquire proper receptacles. These efforts are intended to decrease the likelihood of bears feeding from trash bins.


“Every time a bear gets a treat, a bird feeder, a hummingbird feeder, or trash, it teaches the bear that people mean food,” said Matt Yamashita, CPW’s local area wildlife manager. “People who think that it’s one time, no big deal, are totally wrong. It is a big deal when you compound that ‘one time’ with how many ‘one timers’ they get from your neighbors, too. It adds up.”


For more information, contact Emily Seddon, Natural Resource Planner, at emily.seddon@eaglecounty.us or 970-328-8636.

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