Ghost Bears: Searching for the Elusive North Cascades Grizzly Bear with Bill Gaines

Grizzly bears have been an important part of the North Cascades Ecosystem for thousands of years. They play a vital role for the health of the environment and other wildlife species, figure prominently in regional Native American and First Nations’ cultures, and contribute to the richness of our natural heritage in the Pacific Northwest. But is believed that fewer than ten grizzlies remain in the North Cascades. The online presentation takes note of the current efforts underway to introduce grizzly bears back to the North Cascades ecosystem and how this keystone species can influence the landscape and ecology.
Update: On April 24, 2024, The National Park Service and U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service announced a decision to actively restore grizzly bears to the North Cascades ecosystem. The agencies will restore grizzly bears through the translocation of grizzly bears from other ecosystems in the Rocky Mountains or British Columbia. The decision is the culmination of an Environmental Impact Statement process that began in 2022. Gaines' presentation took place before this decision.
Discover more Online classes from North Cascades Institute at www.ncascades.org/online.