Grizzly Bear Recovery
Bitterroot Ecosystem
Grizzly bears were listed as a threatened species in 1975 in the conterminous 48 States. Currently grizzly bear distribution has been reduced to 5 areas in the western United States, including the Bitterroot in central Idaho and western Montana. Despite numerous studies of this area, there were no verifiable sightings of grizzly bears in the last 60 years until an adult male grizzly bear was mistakenly killed by a black bear hunter is September 2007 in the northern mountains of the Bitterroot. Recovery programs include activities such as improving management of grizzly bears on public lands, genetic research, population monitoring, public education, and implementing the recovery plans for each population.
In 2007, the Service initiated a 5-year review of grizzly bear (as listed in the lower 48 States excluding the Greater Yellowstone Area population) and 8 other species (72 FR 19549).
Tips for Living and Recreating in Grizzly Bear Country
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