Bear Wise Program
You are in Bear Country
Minden Hills is bear country and bears love garbage. But with careful management of your waste, you can reduce the chance of attracting bears to your property: Do not stockpile garbage. Take it to the landfill frequently. Keep meat scraps and cooked food waste in the freezer until you are ready to take it to the landfill. Store garbage in a bear-resistant container, secure shed or garage. Never put meat, bones, fish or dairy products in a compost bin.
What to do if you see or encounter a bear on your property
For more information on what you can do to reduce the chance of attracting bears to your cottage, visit the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) Bear Wise Website at ontario.ca/bearwise.
To report a bear problem, please contact the MNR Bear Reporting Line at 1-866-514-2327, TTY 705-945-7641.
The Bear Reporting Line is in operation from April to November of each year.
In an immediate emergency, call 9-1-1.
Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry “Be Bear Wise” Information Sheets 
Black bears live in most parts of Ontario. Knowing what to do if you encounter a bear is being Bear Wise.
Most human-bear conflicts occur when bears are attracted by smells and rewarded with an easy meal. When bears pick up a scent with their keen noses, they will investigate it, even at your cottage.
When enjoying Ontario’s campsites, lakes, forests or hiking trails, remember you are in natural bear habitat. Bears have a keen sense of smell, and are attracted by the odour of all food and garbage. Avoid conflicts with bears while camping by being prepared and aware.
