Restoration
The ultimate goal of the BEaR group is to see the restoration
of an ecologically viable and socially acceptable population of black
bears in the state of Mississippi.
What does that mean?
- Ecologically Viable - Restoration of bears is not possible without
habitat conservation and research on current bears and their habitat
in Mississippi. Restoration can only happen when the habitat can support
a healthy bear population.
- Socially acceptable - Education is key. Education is needed
to dispel myths about bears, to tell the history of the bear, and to
inform the public about the benefit of bears. If the public socially
accepts bears as part of their environment, their long term survival
is greatly enhanced.
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"Rose" and her two cubs crossed the Mississippi River near Rosedale in 2000, the first cubs seen in Mississippi in over 50 years. They later crossed back to Arkansas. (Photo: Bo Sloan) |
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