Bear proof food lockers now required for Fallen Leaf and Meeks Bay Campgrounds

Improper storage of human food and other scented items, and improper disposal of refuse is a leading cause of human-bear conflict. Due to the fact that bears are attracted to food and things that smell good, proper handing of these items is required at Fallen Leaf and Meeks Bay campgrounds starting October 1.

The U.S. Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit has issued the final decision for Forest Order No. 19-14-14 that requires the proper storage of food and refuse.

This decision requires the use of facility provided dumpsters and food lockers locked to animal entry at these campgrounds. Visitors who elect not to comply with the Forest Order may be subject to a violation notice.

This required proper food storage and refuse disposal is expected to reduce human-bear conflict by preventing bears and other wildlife from obtaining human food sources.

The Decision Notice is posted at http://www.fs.usda.gov/goto/ltbmu/FoodStorageOrder.