This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2008, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
All campers in Grand Teton National Park camping the backcountry below 10,000 feet in elevation will be required to use approved portable bearproof canisters beginning this weekend. The only exception is at select backcountry campsites where food storage facilities are already provided.
The new requirement is being implemented to prevent bears from learning to associate humans and their activities with easily obtainable food. Approved bearproof canisters will be loaned without charge at three park locations: the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center, Jenny Lake Ranger Station, and Colter Bay Visitor Center. Backcountry campers may use their own canisters as long as they are approved units. The following are currently authorized for use: Backpacker Model 812-C, BearVault BV350 and BV400, The Bear Keg, and The Bare Boxer Contender. Visit www.nps.gov/grte/planyourvisit/bearsafety.htm for more information.
