A grizzly bear frequenting the Greenough Lake area has prompted Forest Service officials to close Parkside Campground, Greenough Lake Campground, Greenough Lake, Limber Pine Campground, and Parkside Trail #103.
The closure will be in place until June 12, unless rescinded, due to ongoing grizzly bear activity.
Efforts to haze the bear away from the popular recreation area have been unsuccessful, Beartooth District Ranger Amy Haas said in a press release.
“The purpose of this order is to protect public health and safety. There have been many sightings of a young grizzly bear in the Greenough Lake area and the bear has not left despite the presence of people,” Haas said. “Forest Service, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service staff are working together to help ensure human and bear safety. We will re-open the area as soon as it is safe to do so.”
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The closure order and map are available on the Custer Gallatin National Forest website here www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/custergallatin/alerts-notices.
Rangers ask those out camping or hiking to remember general bear safety in bear country. Carry bear spray and have it readily accessible, travel in groups, make lots of noise, watch for signs of bears in the area, and hike during daylight hours, they said.
Keeping a clean camp is essential for personal safety, the safety of other forest users, and wildlife. Information about food storage requirements on the Custer Gallatin National Forest is available here www.fs.usda.gov/detail/custergallatin/news-events/?cid=FSEPRD1166070.
For further information, please contact the Beartooth Ranger District Office at 406-446-2103.