Are you in a bear activity area?
The cities of Port Coquitlam and Port Moody have identified bear activity areas, where tougher garbage storage rules apply for both businesses and residences.
Not only must garbage be stored in a special enclosure (garage or shed) or secured in special bins (Coquitlam) or with locking devices (Critter Guard in Port Coquitlam), but efforts must also be made to rid properties of all other attractants, such as pet food, bird feed, beverage containers and barbecue grills.
Maps are available of enforcement zones; follow the links at www.portcoquitlam.ca under "Citizen Services" at www.coquitlam.ca under "My Property".
Failure to comply with bylaws could result in warnings and fines of up to $150 in Port Coquitlam and $500 in Coquitlam.
Port Moody residents have bear-resistant bins but are still required to keep their garbage secure until between 5:30 and 7:30 a.m. on collection days. Businesses must also keep their garbage secure. Fines after warnings are between $50 and $150. More information is available at www.cityofportmoody.ca.
For more info:
Coquitlam: coquitlam.ca/residents/public+safety/bear+aware+coquitlam.htm; also: Bear Aware co-ordinator Drake Stephens, 604-927-6317
Port Coquitlam: portcoquitlam.ca/citizen_services/pets___animals/bears.htm
Port Moody: cityofportmoody.com/environment/natural+environment/black+bear.htm
dstrandberg@tricitynews.com
