Wyoming Game and Fish Announces August Bear Spray Giveaways in Western Wyoming Communities
Written by Andrew-Rossi on August 11, 2022
Wyoming Game and Fish will do its annual bear spray giveaway in Cody, Jackson, Lander, and Pinedale – communities where bears coexist with hunters and anglers.
In cooperation with Safari Club International Foundation and American Bear Foundation, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department will distribute bear spray to hunters and anglers at no cost.
At each location, a maximum of one hundred cans of bear spray will be given away to hunters or anglers on a first come, first served basis. Participants must show a current Wyoming hunting or fishing license to receive a can of bear spray.
The cans will be available at the following locations:
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Lander
- Friday, August 19, 9 a.m. at the Game and Fish Lander Regional Office, 260 Buena Vista Dr.
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Pinedale
- Thursday, August 25, 9 a.m. at the Game and Fish Pinedale Regional Office, 432 Mill St.
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Jackson
- Friday, August 26, 9 a.m. at the Teton County Fairgrounds, 305 W. Snow King Ave.
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Cody
- Tuesday, August 30, 11 a.m. at the Cody Rodeo Grounds, 519 W. Yellowstone Ave
Courtesy Wyoming Game and Fish
This is the seventh year Game and Fish has partnered with organizations to give away bear spray to hunters and anglers in Cody.
“Bear spray is an effective deterrent in an aggressive bear encounter, and we hope this effort continues to raise awareness and remind those recreating in bear country to be prepared and stay safe,” Bear Wise Wyoming Coordinator Kyle Garrett said. “In addition to the giveaway, Game and Fish will have large carnivore biologists on hand to talk about bear ecology, conservation, and promoting ‘Bear Wise’ proactive behavior to reduce conflict potential.”
In several locations, participants will have the opportunity to practice using inert bear spray on a mock charging bear.
The mock bear is mounted on a roll rail system, allowing participants to deploy bear spray in a simulated sudden encounter with a charging bear.
“This is a great opportunity for people to practice with the inert spray and for Game and Fish to promote safety as many hunters prepare for the fall season,” Garrett said.
