We the residents of Three Rivers, Tulare County, California recognize that our home has been a haven for bears and humans alike for many thousands of years.

We recognize that adverse human-bear interactions have been increasing due the proliferation of short-term rentals (STRs) and the use of refuse containers that are not bear resistant. Trash distribution, property damage, and curbside bins illegally placed in locations that pose a hazard to humans and bears alike have become serious issues that will increase if we do not take decisive action now to make Three Rivers bear resistant.

Recognizing that partial bear resistance is the same as no bear resistance, we affirm that the solution must be affordable for all residents, property owners, and businesses owners.

We therefore support implementation of an effective and affordable solution that is based on the best practices implemented in “Bear Smart" communities across the United States and Canada over the last few decades. 

This solution includes the following elements:

• Eliminate garbage-based food sources through comprehensive adoption of affordable certified bear-resistant containers or enclosures that have been proven effective in similar communities.
• Educate residents, property owners, businesses, and visitors about bear behavior, bear safety measures, and the steps we all must take to minimize human-bear conflicts.
• Encourage community-wide participation through a simple, supportive ordinance that promotes Bear Smart practices — helping protect both people and wildlife.      
• Establish a robust incident-tracking system and neighborhood-based alert system.
• Work with community members, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, and other government organizations to establish a response system for bear-related incidents.

Given that the members of the Three Rivers community have the most at stake and have more applicable experience and expertise than either county or Mid Valley Disposal staff, it is imperative that the community plays the primary role in development and implementation of this solution. We therefore support the Bear Smart Three Rivers Community Action Plan and urge the Community Services District, Tulare County Solid Waste, and the Tulare County Board of Supervisors to support it as well.