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BEAR-WITH-US.ORG
A Community Wildlife Program
in Mammoth Lakes, California
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Objectives
Wildlife Expert:
- Develop an access I.D. for our Wildlife Expert so he (she) will have authority to access private property, residences, businesses and campgrounds when on a wildlife call
- Wildlife Expert will be in communication with MLPD and will attend all “Wildlife Calls” of importance with proper equipment and protection and assist MLPD in wildlife management techniques.
- Safe and effective noise devices (no smoke bombs), Wildlife Expert clothing with logo; other supplies
- Radios with frequency contact with MLPD, Mono County Sheriff, and Highway Patrol
- Determine authorized “contact” person in each entity (Town, MLPD, Bear With US, Forest Service) to resolve any concerns among the entities involved.
- Develop the program to include jurisdiction throughout Mono County through the Mono County Sheriff and Board of Supervisors.
Insurance:
- Obtain liability insurance for the program, Wildlife Expert and volunteers, and medical Insurance for Wildlife Expert while he/she is compensated as an independent contractor.
- Obtain workmen’s compensation insurance at a time when Bear-With-Us begins compensation of the Wildlife Expert on and Employer/Employee basis.
Signs:
- “Stop Feeding the Wildlife”
- Solar powered flashing warning signs- “SLOW Wildlife Crossing Area” along 395, 203, Meridian, Lakes basin, ski area
- “Put Your Waste in the Right Place– Keep Our Wildlife Safe”
- Work with Town on sign designs and placements
Create Neighborhood Districts:
- Form Neighborhood Wildlife Watch areas with volunteer residents rotating to watch for open dumpsters and unmonitored trash, help to educate new neighbors about the program and respond to wildlife calls as appropriate.
- Help condo complex managers in providing educational materials for guests and help them to understand it is very harmful to the wildlife to intentionally leave dumpsters open to encourage wildlife viewing.
- Provide identifying clothing, vests, badges, magnetic car signs, etc. for volunteers in the neighborhood wildlife watch program
Improve Trash Dumpsters and Other Trash Receptacles:
- Work with Bear Saver, Inc. and Town for bear safe trash cans to be used in all trash pickup neighborhoods.
- Develop a reward program for compliance
- Develop a cooperative enforcement plan between the Town of Mammoth, the MLPD and the Bear With Us program
Seek Funding for the Program:
- Submit proposal for funding from the Town of Mammoth through the Mammoth Community Foundation for start up expenses through first season
- Obtain non-profit organization status with The IRS
- Apply for grant funding for continuation and growth of the community wildlife program
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