In a rare move, North Carolina’s wildlife agency has enacted an emergency regulation to tackle a significant bear issue in Buncombe County. This urgent measure prohibits feeding black bears, a decision made to address the increasing interactions between bears and humans in the area.
Emergency Rule Enacted
The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission has implemented a rule that bans intentional or accidental feeding of black bears. This includes leaving unsecured trash or pet food accessible. “Emergency rules are reserved for serious and unforeseen threats to public health or safety,” stated Carrie Ruhlman, the commission’s policy manager, in a news release.
This regulation does not extend to bird feeding or legal bait used for hunting, unless they pose a risk to human safety or result in property damage. The rule aims to enhance enforcement capabilities, allowing wildlife officers to issue warnings or citations based on the situation. “The goal is not punishment, but prevention,” explained Maj. Chad Arnold of the commission.
Before taking effect, this rule must receive final approval from the state Office of Administrative Hearings.
High Bear-Human Interactions
Buncombe County is a hotspot for bear encounters, accounting for over 40% of such incidents reported across the state, particularly in areas like Asheville, Black Mountain, and Swannanoa. Between May and September, the commission recorded 836 reports of bear activity in the county, including 71 cases of bears entering homes. Additionally, five pets were killed, two were injured, and two residents sustained injuries. A staggering 72% of bear-related home invasions statewide in the past three years were reported in Buncombe County.
Community Concerns and Actions
The emergency rule follows weeks of rising concerns from both local officials and residents. During a Sept. 15 briefing for Buncombe County commissioners, Ashley Hobbs, the commission’s BearWise coordinator, emphasized the need for residents to adopt bear-proof trash cans. However, a small percentage of residents in unincorporated areas currently use them.
On the heels of this meeting, Asheville residents urged the City Council to take further action, though no measures were adopted. This followed an incident on Aug. 18 when a bear entered a North Asheville home through an unlocked door, injuring a woman. The same bear reportedly broke into nine other homes afterward, leading to public outcry when the commission considered euthanizing the bear, named Dolly by supporters.
Future Public Involvement
Although emergency rules bypass public commentary, the NCWRC Commission plans to submit an identical temporary rule that will allow for public feedback and a hearing. Details will be shared on ncwildlife.gov/proposedregulations early next week.
