Missoula, MT – Montana residents and businesses located near grizzly bear populations now have an opportunity to apply for funding aimed at reducing human-bear conflicts. The Montana Community-Bear Conflict Prevention Efforts Fund has been launched to support efforts that promote non-lethal ways to address carnivore conflicts, specifically with grizzly bears.
The fund, which offers up to $1 million in total, provides grants ranging from a minimum of $10,000 to a maximum of $150,000. The first round of applications is open until March 24, and individuals or groups interested in participating are encouraged to submit their proposals as soon as possible.
Steve Primm, the conflict reduction manager for the Heart of the Rockies Initiative, emphasized the importance of these efforts, noting that investing in bear-resistant infrastructure and educational programs is a proactive and effective way to minimize conflicts between humans and bears. “As grizzly populations expand, more communities are learning what it takes to live and work alongside them,” Primm said. “This program is intended to support community-driven initiatives that enhance safety for both people and bears.”
The funding is designed to support a variety of tools and projects aimed at preventing bear encounters, including bear-resistant garbage containers, electric fencing, and public awareness campaigns. By addressing issues before they escalate, the initiative hopes to reduce the likelihood of bears being killed due to conflicts with humans, while also helping communities adapt to the presence of these large carnivores.
As grizzly bear populations continue to recover and expand in the region, programs like this are becoming increasingly essential. For many communities, it’s a matter of finding a balance between preserving wildlife and ensuring the safety of residents. The Montana Community-Bear Conflict Prevention Efforts Fund is one step toward that balance, offering financial support to implement long-term solutions.
For more information about the program or to apply for funding, individuals can visit the official website of the Heart of the Rockies Initiative.
