ICONIC BROWN BEARS

There are few species as iconic to Alaska as the wild coastal brown bear. Impressive, intimidating, mysterious, and beautiful the brown bear evokes a primal excitement within us. Even just a hint of their presence makes the forest seem richer, the mountains seem steeper, and the nights more thrilling. People travel from all over the world to experience the thrill of standing shoulder to shoulder with one of the most respected apex predators on earth. In them, we see something of ourselves. Their individuality and distinct personalities set them apart from other wildlife as a species that humans strive to connect with. Alaska's wilderness stands out as far more vibrant and rugged than the barren landscapes in the American southwest where grizzly bears have been extirpated, and so much of this has to do with the persistent presence of these magnificent creatures and protection of their habitat.

Community Economics

2019 "The Economic Contribution of Bear Viewing" study done by University of Alaska Fairbanks found bear viewing greatly contributed to local economies.
$34.5 million in sales were generated by bear viewing related activities
$10 million in wages and benefits were paid out
Approximately 371 jobs were created by this industry
These figures were conservative and did not include expenditures by local food and grocery providers, commercial airfares or national lodging chains

Protecting Our Brown Bears

Hundreds of coastal brown bears have lived in the wilderness of the Bear Coast without disruption from human development. These abundant bears play a critical role as curators of their ecosystem, casting broad impacts over the landscapes through which they roam. Bears are the Swiss Army knives of the natural world: their claws freshen soil like rototillers as they dig for roots and insects, the scraps from the fish they hunt and meat they scavenge quickly returns energy to the ground. Where brown bears roam, the ecosystem is healthier for it.

What's Happening?

Habitat fragmentation: the proposed mining highway and facilities will cut through prime brown bear habitat and denning sites. Habitat fragmentation of grizzly bears are well documented.
Diminishing salmon runs: warming weather and changing climates are signaling a shift in the salmon runs. Locals have noticed a change in runs and some years they see very few fish.
Sedge Meadows disappearing: park scientists have seen a shift in sedge meadows drying out and disappearing. This is a valuable food source in the spring time for bears coming out of their dens from the winter.
Industrial Development: increased air traffic, dust, and mining activities create sound and pollution in a pristine location. Dust from mining activities is shown to negatively impact vegetation. A potential spill could decimate pristine rivers and waterways.