Snowmass Village is in prime black bear habitat. Residents are encouraged to be bear aware and minimize the risk of bear-human interactions. Human-bear conflicts will increase when residents make food sources available to bears in and around their homes. Residents should not leave their garage doors open, even during the day, as items commonly stored in a garage may attract a bear.
Trash, recycling, and compost bins are major attractants for foraging bears. Pet food, bird feeders, and outdoor cooking equipment such as grills and barbecues also attract bears to the home. Black bears are curious, intelligent, and very resourceful; they will explore all possible food sources. If a bear finds food in an open garage, it will investigate. When a human encounters a bear in a garage, the bear may feel cornered and cause injury to both parties.
The Town of Snowmass Village urges all residents to keep garage doors closed, even during the day, to reduce the likelihood of a bear interaction. Locking windows and doors when not at home or in use is also advised.