Recent bear sightings have spurred debates on social media, about what conservation does with the bears they come across.

Natural Resources Officer Ryan Kopchuck sets the record straight: "We’re chasing them away, scaring them away from towns, most of the time that works. We do have live traps set, the culvert looking straps, and we have been catching a few and relocating them outside of town to give them a new home, away from people. Euthanizing the bears is the absolute last resort we use. If the opportunity arises, we will tranquilize them and relocate them".

Any bear sightings should be reported to 677-6640.

Kopchuk also reminds residents to keep attractants such as garbage, dirty BBQ’s and bird feeders away from their home.