Conflicts with wildlife are continuing across the Regional District of the Okanagan-Similkameen.

In a presentation to the regional district board, Shelley Fiorito, the WildsafeBC coordinator with the regional district, said there has been a high number of black bear conflicts in all parts of the South Okanagan and Similkameen. In addition, there have been reports of other wildlife conflicts, including bobcats, moose, badgers and elk.

Fiorito said residents within the regional district have been good at managing garbage and attractants to avoid attracting bears.

Four related audit events in 2023 showed few incidents where garbage had been set out too early.

However, in some cases, bears have been able to determine the amount of time they have between when garbage bins are set out and when garbage collection occurs. In some areas, where garbage is set out at 7 a.m., bears will scavenge through the bins before the trucks arrive later in the morning.

WildsafeBC is continuing to hold educational events to prepare residents for living close to wildlife.

The group held six classroom presentations in 2023, reaching more than 100 students. Other community events reached more than 350 people. Four sessions were held to train people how to use bear spray. These sessions attracted 115 people in 2023.