Press Release - Don't Feed the Bears

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DON’T FEED THE BEARS!!!

The Mayor and Committee of the Township of Wantage remind all citizens:
NEVER FEED A BLACK BEAR! It is now illegal to feed black bears in New Jersey and violators are subject to a maximum penalty of $1,000.

The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection offers the following tips for avoiding problems associated with bears:

Store garbage in airtight containers in a secure area such as a basement or against the inside wall of a garage.
Wash containers frequently with a disinfectant to eliminate odors that might attract bears.
Put garbage out in the morning, not the evening before.
If you must hang birdfeeders, hang them at least ten feet off the ground from a free hanging wire. Birds can find natural foods from the spring through fall seasons.
Feed outdoor pets during daylight hours only. Remove all food scraps and bowls immediately after feeding.
Thoroughly clean barbecue grills after each use since grease residue and odors can attract bears.
Use common sense in a bear encounter. Remain calm, never approach the animal and always give it an escape route.

Report aggressive bears immediately to the NJDEP's Division of Fish and Wildlife at (908)-735-8793. Nuisance or damage problems should also be reported to the same number. Immediate threats to life or property in the Township Of Wantage should be reported to the State Police.

End