Portions of Mission Creek trails closed to reduce human-animal interactions

Sections of the soopalalie and Kokanee Trails in Mission Creek Regional park have been closed due to increased wildlife activity.

The Regional District of Central Okanagan (RDCO) said the portions of the trails upstream between the Kokanee and Cottonwood Bridges due to ripening fruit and spawning Kokanee salmon returning to stream leads to increased bear activity this time of year.

Visitors were advised to travel in groups of four or more, to make noise on the trails so bears know of their presence, and to not enter any closed areas of the trails.

The RDCO added anyone who sees a bear should give it plenty of space, stay afar, and make sure they have a clear escape route.

Dogs should also be kept on a leash to ensure they do not confront a bear.

Bears spotted in the park can be reported to the RDCO online or at 250-469-6232, while any bears that pose a threat to the public should be reported to the Conservation Officer Service at 1-877-952-7277 (RAPP).

The public is also advised to take steps to avoid possible interactions with bears and other animals by making sure garbage and compost is securely stored, and that there are no fruits left out and unharvested.