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Nelson’s Rail Trail reopened as grizzlies leave area

The trio of bears had spent the fall in and around the outskirts of the city
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Grizzly bears that had been seen around Nelson have now left the area. One of them that had previously been captured and sedated is seen in this picture. It had been relocated only to return to Nelson before eventually leaving again without incident. Photo: Lisa Thomson/WildSafe BC

Nelson’s Rail Trail has been reopened to the public after a trio of grizzlies left the area.

The Regional District of Central Kootenay announced Nov. 22 that the Nelson to Salmo Great Northern Trail was bear-free following co-ordination with a local conservation officer.

The grizzly family were previously relocated out of Nelson in October only to return days later. Meanwhile a mother black bear and three cubs also became regulars in Nelson and took up residence at Gyro Park.

But the City of Nelson announced Nov. 17 that the black bears had left the city and the park was open again to visitors. The grizzlies appear to have followed suit.

Allowing the bears to remain in the city is a sharp contrast to 2022 when 17 bears were euthanized within city limits.

READ MORE: No hard feelings: victim of B.C. attack grateful bear will be left alone



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