Campbell River Fish & Wildlife (CRFW)
Wildlife / Hazard Assessment – Mitigation Plan
By: Ryan Brooks
Pt. 1 Report: Bear Conflict and Mitigation plan
Pt. 2 This is Bear Country!
Pt. 3 Wildlife Deterrents – CRFW
Pt. 4 Vancouver Island Black Bear – Ursus americanus vancouveri
Pt. 5 About the author – Wildlife Monitoring
© 2025 Ryan Brooks. All rights reserved.
This document may not be copied or distributed without express permission.
1.) Report: Bear Conflict and Mitigation plan: Campbell River Fish & Wildlife Association – Wildlife / Hazard Assessment
Prepared by: Ryan Brooks
Campbell River Fish & Wildlife Association (CRFW)
Location: 2641 Campbell River Road, Campbell River, BC
Date: June 2025
Subject: Bear Conflict on Archery Ranges – Risk Management and Mitigation
Executive Summary
The Campbell River Fish & Wildlife Association (CRFW) operates static and 3D archery ranges in a forested area that overlaps with black bear habitat. In recent years, particularly in the fall season during the salmon run, bear activity near the ranges has increased, resulting in damage to 3D targets and potential safety risks for members and guests. This report outlines the nature of the conflict and presents a set of Best Management Practices (BMPs) developed to minimize risk and protect both wildlife and club infrastructure.
Background
Archery targets—particularly 3D foam models—have become an unintended attractant to bears. Bears, especially in spring and fall, are drawn to scent-laden materials and may interpret synthetic targets as food sources. Human activity, food odors, and unsecured garbage further exacerbate the issue.
Incident Summary
Multiple cases of 3D targets clawed, bitten, or dragged off-trail. Club property destroyed.
Increased bear sightings and wildlife sign – Wildlife Carcass Reported last fall (2024).
Conservation Officer Service (COS) & BC Parks reports confirm regional bear pressure particularly during the fall season when bears are experiencing hyperphagia prior to denning up for the winter.
Increase in recreation and tourism along Campbell River and BC Parks – displacing natural Wildlife behavior.
Mitigation Plan: Best Management Practices (BMPs)
Target Scent Management – Attractants
Clean targets with scent-neutral soap regularly.
Medal mesh protectant on 3D targets.
Avoid using any petroleum or scent laced products (paints, solvents, etc.) on 3D targets or static range.
Report and remove any wildlife carcass found on CRFW managed lands.
Food Policy
No food or drink (water exception) allowed near shooting lanes – Club house only.
Mandatory clean-up after events.
Garbage Control
Use bear-proof containers.
Remove waste off-site after each event.
Target Storage
Store 3D targets indoors or in secure sheds when not in use.
Use shutter system on 3D targets – open and close after each use.
Rotate target locations to avoid scent buildup.
Construct electric fence perimeter in areas that make most sense (static archery range)
Range Monitoring
Use trail cameras to monitor bear activity.
Implement range closures based on movement patterns.
Foot patrol area to Monitor wildlife activity – Observe, Record & Report
Implement hazing strategy for reoccurring wildlife offenders – High Visibility Vest, Bear Spray & Air horns / Noise makers. (***Specialized training required***).
Wildlife Prevention Through Environmental design (WPTED)
Brush & Maintain trails – Increase area sight lines
Cut back overgrown vegetation and berry bushes in and around club and shooting areas.
Manage invasive species
Bi-Annual or seasonal Wildlife / Danger Tree assessments – Parks / Forest Activities
Public Awareness
Post signs with bear safety guidelines.
Include safety briefings at tournaments and public events.
Encourage public to report Wildlife observations, near misses, incidents and chance finds to CRFW, Wildlife Monitor or BCCOS.
Annual Bear Awareness training for public and club members – Practical Bear Spray.
Partnerships – Participation
Collaborate with WildsafeBC, CBVA, GOABC, BC Parks, Wildlife Monitors and the BCCOS.
Implement Wildlife Reporting and incidents regularly – *Wildlife Report Sheet Attached.
Always give wildlife the “right of way” & respect all wildlife.
Recommendations
The Campbell River Fish & Wildlife Association (CRFW) recommends the following actions to maintain a safe and wildlife-responsible environment:
1)· Ongoing Monitoring: Regularly assess bear activity at both the static and 3D archery ranges, with seasonal tracking of sightings, attractants, and damage reports.
2) Annual Training: Provide annual training sessions for staff and volunteers focused on bear conflict prevention, deterrent use, and emergency response protocols.
3) Bear Awareness Refresher: Require all CRFW members to complete a yearly bear awareness refresher to ensure current knowledge of bear behavior, safety practices, and reporting procedures.
These measures will help reinforce a culture of safety, preparedness, and environmental stewardship among all users.
Conclusion
Bear presence is a natural and expected aspect of life in the Campbell River, Vancouver Island, BC. As wildlife continues to share the landscape with recreational users, the Campbell River Fish & Wildlife club plays a vital role in promoting coexistence through proactive planning and responsible practices.
By implementing and maintaining these Best Management Practices (BMPs), the CRFW can continue to offer high-quality archery opportunities while ensuring the safety of its members and the protection of local wildlife. Through education, preparation, and a commitment to stewardship, CRFW can minimize bear conflicts and preserve the integrity of both its property and the surrounding environment.
Wildlife Monitoring Report Card
Observer Name: ____________________________________
Contact Info (Phone/Email): ___________________________
Date: _____________
Time: _____________
Duration of Observation: _____________
Location (GPS or Description): ___________________________
Type of Wildlife Monitoring Event
(✔ Check one or more as they apply)
Wildlife Observation
Wildlife Incident (direct contact, conflict, injury, property damage, etc.)
Wildlife Near Miss (close call, potential risk avoided)
Wildlife Chance Find (unexpected discovery, sign, carcass, Danger tree, Den or Raptors nest, etc.)
Comments / Notes:
(Include species, behavior, condition, proximity, weather, human activity, etc.)
2). This is Bear Country!
BLACK BEAR – Ursus americanus
BROWN BEAR (GRIZZLY)- Ursus Arctos
Bears are inhabiting this area in spring, summer and fall. Please manage your attractants and keep your camp clean. Use waste receptacles provided in the front country and pack out what you pack in when enjoying the backcountry.
Bear attack! – are you prepared to avoid one?
1. Be alert & make noise
2. Hike in groups and avoid hiking alone
3. Manage waste and other attractants (keep food contained in your vehicle or in food caches in the backcountry)
4. Keep dogs on leash and children close by
5. Do not run & Respect all Wildlife
· During a surprise encounter – slowly back way
· If a bear charges – stand your ground and use your bear spray
· If a bear attacks during a surprise encounter – play dead
· If a Bear persistently stalks you and then attacks – use your Bear spray or other deterrents
· If a Bear attacks you in your tent – fight back!
– There is no guarantee for your safety in Bear Country –
3). Wildlife Deterrents – Campbell River Fish & Wildlife
The Campbell River Fish & Wildlife Association operates in prime black bear and cougar habitat. With static and 3D archery ranges, wooded trails, and seasonal wildlife movement, it’s essential that all members and visitors are equipped with basic wildlife deterrents and know how to use them. These tools not only enhance personal safety but also help reduce potential conflict with wildlife on the property. Wildlife safety training can be provided by a qualified Wildlife Monitor.
Bear Spray & Holster
Bear spray is the most effective non-lethal deterrent in the event of a close-range bear encounter.
Always carry it readily accessible in a holster worn on your belt or chest strap—not in a pack or pocket.
Practice safe use by watching instructional videos or attending CRFW’s Annual Bear Awareness Training.
Replace expired canisters and store out of direct sunlight.
Recommended on 3D courses, where dense brush and target setups may obscure line-of-sight.
Note: Bear spray is for use only in emergencies involving aggressive behavior or defensive wildlife encounters.
Air Horn / Noise Maker
Sound deterrents such as marine-grade air horns are lightweight, easy to use, and effective at deterring bears, cougars, or wolves from a distance.
Also useful for warning other range users of nearby wildlife.
Use before entering densely vegetated areas, especially early morning or dusk when bears are most active.
Can be stored in a quick-access pouch or clipped to your quiver or belt.
Best Practice: CRFW encourages a “make noise, stay alert” policy on trails between targets.
Walking Stick & Whistle
A walking stick helps with uneven terrain and provides an audible presence when tapped against logs or gravel. “Do not underestimate the power of a walking stick coupled with your mother’s voice…”
This simple act lets animals know you’re coming and prevents surprise encounters—especially on blind corners.
A fox 40 whistle is ideal for communication between members during archery events and can serve as a distress signal in case of emergency.Consider attaching the whistle to your lanyard, chest strap, or bow case.
CRFW Best Practices – Club & Member wildlife safety – 3D Range
1). Travel in pairs, when possible, on the 3D range.
2). Scan for scat, tracks, or overturned logs, which may indicate active bear foraging.
3). Report all wildlife sightings or incidents immediately to a CRFW executive or posted contact – especially any wildlife carcasses or salmon caches.
4). Follow the “Leave No Trace” ethic—remove food wrappers, scent attractants, and other waste – Pack out what you pack in.
Wildlife is a natural and valued part of our shared environment. By staying alert and prepared, we can safely enjoy outdoor recreation while protecting bears, cougars, and other species from conflict.
4). Van Isle Black Bear – Ursus americanus vancouveri
Black Bear: (Ursus americanus)
• Class: Mammalia
• Order: Carnivora
• Family: Ursidae
• Genus: Ursus
• Species: U. Americanus
Description:
The American Black bear is the most common member of the bear family (Ursidae) and its population is double that of all bear species combined. Roughly 25,000 live here in British Columbia alone and are found across the province. Mature black bears are typically smaller than Grizzly bears and reach weights of 180kg and heights of 1.5meters. Despite the name black bear, its coat may have noticeable variations from individuals in the same litter to geographic regions across its range. Coat color may vary from black to cinnamon to yellow-brown coats. Some members of the black bear species have been noted to have grey-blue fur along the North pacific coast and about 10 percent of the population of Black bears in British Columbia have a white coat and have earned the nickname: “Spirit bear”. Variations in coat color may occur because of habitat with open areas resulting in black bears with lighter coats. It has also been suggested that the variation in fur may be too mimicking brown bears that may compete with or predate on black bears. Black bears may be confused or resemble their larger cousin the Brown bear (Ursus arctos horribilis), however the black bears head profile which slops in a straight line from brow to snout gives the shape of the head a more of a roman nose or convex shape. The ears of black bears are typically larger than brown bears and noticeable pointier than their cousin’s ears are small and round. Also, black bears are missing the muscular shoulder hump found on Brown Bears. The claws on a black bear are much shorter at 4cm in length making black bears excellent at climbing trees. Black bears also have a wide range of vocalization, from a woof sound as an alarm given by adults to shrill howls of lonely and frightened cubs. Mature Males, also known as Boars, can be identified by broader neck and widened facial features while adult females, known as Sows, are typically half the size their male counterparts and if not with cubs may be confused for a sub adult or juvenile boar.
Range:
The range of black bears can only be found in North America and is commonly found in all forested areas. There historic range extended from northern Canada, United starts and into central Mexico, although currently much of their range in the Midwest has declined and black bears are only presently found in eight states of northern Mexico.
Habitat:
Black bears can be found typically in coniferous and deciduous forests preferring woodlands and valley bottoms. However, the species is highly adaptable and can also be found in areas such as Coastal & Interior British Columbia, Mexican scrub forest, Louisiana swamps, Alaskan temperate rainforests and Labrador tundra. Black bears have also been found along the coast from sea level to elevations of 3,500 meters.
Biology:
Black bears are crepuscular by nature and may be active any time of the day and night but are most often seen foraging for food during twilight hours of dusk & dawn. Black bears are also opportunistic when it comes to food and will seek food sources depending on location, season and availability. 95 percent of the species diet may consist of roots, buds, berries and fruits and is influenced by the seasonality of different vegetation while bears are active. Black bears may also prey on animal species. On occasion young ungulates and livestock may be predated upon & Black bears found in Labrador have been found to prey upon small mammals and caribou. Because black bears have been able to live relatively close to people and human settlements, black bears have also been found to forage on human related foods such as bird seeds, honey from apiaries, and garbage from landfills among many other unsecured man-made attractants and at times leads to conflict with people.
Black bears can move at great speeds of excess of 30mph and can run uphill and down. They also are proficient swimmers and are adept in climbing trees. Eyesight of a Black Bear is comparable to humans while their sense of smell is exceptionally powerful and far surpasses that at 100 times greater than human or 7 times greater than a dog due to significantly larger olfactory mucosa. This heightened sense of smell has helped bears evolve in finding food sources, detect carrion and find mates. Bears are extremely intelligent wildlife with an IQ equivalent to that of a 5-year-old child. They have exceptional sense of smell & taste and because of this, Black bears tend to get in trouble due to their heightened curiosity.
Home ranges vary depending on geography and region. An example male black bears found on long Island, off south-western Washington may have home range of 5 sq. kilometers while males in the tundra of Ungava Peninsula, Canada may enjoy a home range of 1,000 sq. kilometers. Black bears typically live solitary lives and maybe become territorial towards other black bears especially during breeding season. Mating occurs mid-June to Mid-July and further east may extend till the middle of August. Females will breed with multiple boars and after copulation, a fertilized embryos remain in stasis until late fall and only attached of the uterine wall of the Sow if food and habitat conditions are right. Cubs will be born – This is called delayed implantation. Cubs will remain with the sow during her hibernation and will nurse periodically until they are ready to emerge from the den in late March & April. Cubs will remain with their mother for 18 months and typically leave when the Sow is ready to breed again.
Sows reach sexual maturity at the age of 3 and may produce a litter of 1 to 4 cubs every other year. Cubs are born with their eyes closed and with a fine layer of fur during hibernation in late January to mid-February. Cubs weigh 8 oz at birth but by their first winter cubs will weigh between 3 to 5 kilograms. Mortality rate of Black Bear cubs in British Columbia is 50% by their first winter.
On occasion several black bears may be seen in the same area, but only when food is abundant such as an along creeks, rivers and streams when salmon run. Black bears hibernate during the winter months with bears found in northern regions hibernating longer then bears found in the south. During annual hibernation, black bears will survive off stored fat and metabolize waste into amino acids. Body temperature and heart rate is also greatly reduced. Black bear dens are usually found in hollowed out earth or hollowed out trees in well drained, low-lying valleys below the tree line.
Conservation issues regarding Black Bears in British Columbia.
• Approximately 14,000 Brown bears and 25,000 Black bears reside in British Columbia.
• Current threats to bears across B.C include Habitat loss & fragmentation, Prey depletion & conflict with humans. (Food conditioning and habituation – “Loss of fear of Man”
• B.C Conservation officers have killed 4,300 black bears and 160 Brown bears in the province since 2011 {www.vicnews.com} with 500 Black bears and 25 Brown bears killed in 2019 alone by CO’s {CBC News}
• B.C Conservation Officer Services reported a record number of bears destroyed in 2023 with over 598 bears destroyed or 1 in 5 calls relating to a “nuisance” bear by BCCOS
• Bear encounters on the rise in British Columbia due to natural food and habitat shortages related to extreme heat, wildfires, resource extraction and an increase of public recreation & tourism activities in the backcountry.
Cultural & social importance of bears:
Bears represent both ecological integrity and natural beauty. Because of their slow reproductive rate and sensitivity to change bears are key indicator species and can help define their environment. First nations across Canada represent bears as a symbol Courage, power & fearlessness while Canadians feel a deep connection to the land knowing that bears still exist in Wild spaces.
Distinguishing features of Brown and Black Bears. What is the difference?
Black bears exabit:
• Facial profile is convex or “Roman” nose in appearance. Straight from brow to snout. Ears are much larger.
• Claws on a Black bear are1 1/2” or 4cm in length which allows them to easily climb trees.
• Black bears are missing the muscular shoulder hump found on brown bears. Black bears “rump sits higher than the hump.”
5). About the author – CRFW / Vancouver Island Black Bears
For more information regarding wildlife safety training & conservation initiatives, or to hire a qualified wildlife monitor or professional wilderness guide – contact:
Ranger.ONE.Wilderness
Downloadable PDF: CRFW_Wildlife_Hazard_Assessment_BMP_Reportt
Respect Wildlife ~