The launch of a new initiative designed to support local businesses in becoming part of the solution when it comes to preventing bear conflicts in our area.
Developed in partnership with the Chamber of Commerce, Swan Valley Connections, and People and Carnivores, this program equips businesses with the tools and resources needed to protect both people and wildlife.
Bear In Mind Business builds on the vital work of each partner organization by offering practical support to businesses here in Bigfork. Whether it’s helping business owners identify ways to prevent bear conflicts or providing resources to educate staff and customers, this initiative connects you to local experts working to keep both people safe and bears wild. Complementing this effort, the Wildlife Restoration Foundation will provide businesses with educational materials on bear safety for visitors and tourists.
Participating in the Bear In Mind Business initiative offers meaningful benefits for both your business and the community. You’ll be helping to educate patrons on best practices for living in and visiting bear country, while also maintaining a safer workplace by equipping employees with bear-safe protocols. The program supports efforts to secure common bear attractants—like garbage and food waste—helping to discourage bears from frequenting your business. Most importantly, your participation helps promote the health and safety of local wildlife populations, reinforcing your business’s role as a responsible and valued part of the Bigfork community.
How Can Your Business Paricipate?
Meet the local experts –
Swan Valley Connections
Jackie Pagano, Bear Conflict Prevention Coordinator
Jackie@svconnections.org
(406) 754-3137
Jackie’s work focuses on reducing bear conflicts in the Swan Watershed as part of Swan Valley Connections’ Swan Valley Bear Resources program. She manages the bear-resistant trash can loaner program, installs electric fencing to secure attractants, and hosts a variety of educational events throughout the area.
People and Carnivores
Ryan Wilbur, Field Project Manager
rwilbur@peopleandcarnivores.org
(614) 746-1406
Ryan works on the ground throughout Northwest Montana to design and implement nonlethal tools on the ground to prevent human-carnivore conflicts —like bears, wolves, and mountain lions— keeping people safe and large carnivores wild.
Wildlife Restoration Foundation
Rebekah Ficek, IABS Program Coordinator – Glacier Country
rficek@wildlifeandparks.org
(802) 881-8462
Rebekah coordinates the “I Am Bear Safe” initiative, working with Park Gateway Partners to reduce human-bear conflict through education, signage, and tools that promote responsible recreation, secure attractants, and encourage stewardship in National Park and Forest gateway communities.
