Crystal Lakes Bear Aware Team: A Community Success Story

The Crystal Lakes Bear Aware Team was created in 2005 through a partnership with the Colorado Department of Wildlife. At that time, bear break-ins in our area topped 100 annually, causing an average of $1,800 in property damage per incident—more than $150,000 in losses each year.

Comprised of local volunteers trained by wildlife experts, the Bear Aware Team works to educate property owners and visitors on living responsibly in bear country. Through community outreach, signage, and hands-on support, the team has successfully promoted techniques that dramatically reduce bear encounters—like removing attractants and “keeping a clean camp.”



Thanks to these efforts, bear break-ins in Crystal Lakes dropped from 122 in 2005 to just 13 in 2006. Remarkably, in 2007—Colorado’s worst year on record for bear conflicts—Crystal Lakes had zero incidents. Our community has become a statewide model for effective, grassroots bear awareness, inspiring similar programs across the country.

“Every time we’re forced to destroy a bear, we lose more than just the animal—we lose part of what makes Colorado wild and beautiful.”

Helpful Tips to Keep Bears Wild and Away from Structures

1. Scare bears away from homes and buildings.
Use noise and motion to make your property uncomfortable for bears:

• Air horns
• Pots and pans
• Yelling
• Throwing small rocks
• Pepper spray (only if safe to do so)
• Motion sensors with barking dog or radio sounds
  Use a variety of methods to avoid habituation.

2. Remove all bear attractants.

• No garbage left outside—clean waste areas thoroughly.
• Feed birds only from November 15 to May 1. Bring hummingbird feeders in at night.
• Store pet food indoors in airtight containers.
• Clean BBQs with bleach solution after every use.
• Store horse feed in a secure, locked metal container.
• Do not feed deer, elk, or any wildlife—it's illegal and dangerous.

3. Clear out all food and scented items when leaving.

• Remove food, pet food, and even sealed containers.
• Take out cosmetics and scented toiletries.
• Clean stove and oven vents, including filters.

4. Secure your home or cabin.

• Lock doors and windows—replace louvered windows if possible.
• Install metal doors with round handles.
• Keep garage doors shut.
• Trim tree limbs that provide roof or deck access.
• Use bear deterrents like electric fencing or “unwelcome mats.”

Bear Unwelcome Mats

Unwelcome mats are homemade deterrents placed in front of windows or doors where bears might try to break in. They're made from sturdy plywood with nails or screws spaced 1–2 inches apart, sticking up ½"–¾". These mats cause discomfort without harming the bear and are effective at discouraging entry.

• Use galvanized roofing nails, carpet tack strips, or drywall screws.
• Secure mats firmly—bears are strong and persistent.
• If on a deck, screw it down. If on the ground, anchor it with rebar or long spikes.
• Be mindful: unwelcome mats should only be used where pets or children can’t accidentally step on them.
  

Electric Fencing

Electric fencing is another highly effective tool for protecting campers, trailers, and property. It’s widely used across Colorado and beyond to safely deter bears without causing harm.

For detailed instructions, visit these resources:

• Florida: Use of Electric Fencing to Exclude Bears
• Virginia: Electric Fencing for Black Bears
• Alaska: Protecting Your Camp from Bears

Bear Websites

Wind River Bear Institute          North American Bear Center         Watchable Wildlife - The Black Bear         Get Bear Smart Society (Canada)