At the July 29, Los Alamos County Council meeting, the Council designated August 2025 as ‘Bear Month in Los Alamos County’. Pictured are, from left, Pajarito Environmental Education Center Executive Director Jillian Rubio, Councilor Randall Ryti, and Land of Enchantment Wildlife Foundation Executive Director Nirankar Horak. Photo Courtesy LAC
COUNTY NEWS RELEASE
Los Alamos County is blessed with abundant wildlife, including the majestic American Black Bear whose presence contributes to the ecological balance and natural beauty of our area. It is the responsibility of our community to coexist peacefully with wildlife by taking necessary precautions to minimize potential encounters between humans and bears.
Five critical bear safety practices should be added to our daily routines and recreational activities: (1) make noise while in the wilderness so as not to surprise a bear; (2) stay alert and actively look for signs that a bear may be in the area; (3) never approach or crowd a bear; (4) keep food, garbage, and other attractants secure, including protecting livestock such as bees and chickens by using bear deterrents like electric fencing; and (5) remain calm and never run during a bear encounter.
The Pajarito Environmental Education Center and Land of Enchantment Wildlife Foundation will host New Mexico’s only annual bear festival — Bear Fest — on August 23 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Los Alamos Nature Center located at 2600 Canyon Road, with sponsorship from N3B and Century Bank.
Local, regional, and state organizations will provide educational opportunities on how to manage human-wildlife interactions and promote safety for both people and bears through crafts, games, food, and other engaging activities at Bear Fest.
Los Alamos County Council declared the month of August as BEAR MONTH IN LOS ALAMOS and urged our citizens to participate in Bear Fest to raise awareness and encourage responsible practices to promote peaceful coexistence with our wildlife, specifically the American Black Bear, and help ensure the safety and preservation of both humans and bears.