Every year, there are numerous bear sightings in and around our community. The Issaquah Highlands Community Association cannot physically remove the bears. Our role is to educate residents about the bears, especially the need to manage garbage as it is the major attraction for the bears.

Removal of problem bears can be done by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife if they determine a bear is a threat. The mere sighting of a bear does not necessarily make it a threat as we are in their habitat and it is not unusual to have bear sightings. We encourage residents to contact WDFW as they respond better when there are calls multiple residents.

• Do NOT put out your garbage until the morning of pick-up.
• Clean your BBQ after each use or store in your garage.
• Do not put bird feeders in your backyard.

Educate yourself and your family on what to do if you encounter a bear. See below links. You may report sightings to WDFW at 425-775-1311. They will only take action if the bear is a threat.

Bear Smart Best Practices

Useful information from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife:

Introduction to Living with Wildlife: http://www.wdfw.wa.gov/wlm/living/index.htm

Cougars: http://www.wdfw.wa.gov/wlm/game/cougar/cougar.htm

Bears: http://www.wdfw.wa.gov/wlm/game/blkbear/blkbear.htm

Coyotes: http://www.wdfw.wa.gov/wlm/living/coyotes.htm

Issaquah Highlands Wildlife Stewards: www.nwwildlifestewards.com

Bear/Cougar Safety Info: www.bearinfo.org