Black Bears Tear Tent at Lake Minnewanka Campground, Prompt Warning
Cathy Ellis
Rocky Mountain Outlook
BANFF – A black bear and her yearling cub ripped a tent at a backcountry campground at Lake Minnewanka on Friday afternoon (May 16), prompting Parks Canada to issue a warning for that area of Banff National Park.
Parks Canada officials say no one was in the tent at the time the bears tore it, noting the camper was nearby in the designated cooking area.
“The individual was behaving appropriately and the bears did not interact with them,” said Kelly Veillette, public relations and communications officer for Banff National Park.
“No negative human-bear interaction was reported and the bears did not obtain any unnatural food rewards.”
Out of an abundance of caution and to ensure public safety, Veillette said Parks Canada closed the backcountry campsites in the vicinity – LM 8, 9 and 11, 20, 22, and 31 for the duration of the Victoria Day long weekend.
A bear warning was issued for Lake Minnewanka shoreline trail from Stewart Canyon until further notice. Signage has also been installed to communicate the warning to visitors travelling through the area.
“Parks Canada staff are monitoring the area and the bear warning remains in place until further notice,” said Natalie Fay, external relations manager for Banff National Park.
Veillette said it is uncertain what attracted the bears to the tent in the first place.
“We cannot say for sure what led the bears to the tent, but can confirm there was no food or garbage inside the tent,” she said.
Parks Canada warns people to be prepared to encounter a bear at any time in this area:
- All food, garbage, and anything with odours must be closely attended at all times.
- Fire pits should not be used to dispose of garbage or liquids.
- All food and garbage must be disposed of in a proper receptacle.
- Pay attention for bears when travelling in this area.
- Make noise when hiking and cycling.
- Keep pets on leash and a close eye on children.
- Carry bear spray and know how to use it.
- Report all bear sightings immediately to the Banff Visitor Center or Banff dispatch at 403-762-1470.