Editorial: Don't take the wilderness for granted

There are certain realities we must accept if we want to get the utmost enjoyment out of nature, and one of those is the presence of wild animals.

Enjoying the vast wilderness areas in the shadow of the Rocky Mountains is one of the most beautiful experiences you can have anywhere in the world, let alone in Canada. We are fortunate to live here, recreate here and to find spiritual grounding for our lives in our local rivers, forests, lakes and mountain trails.

However, we are not alone in this vast wilderness. There are ungulates of all sizes, there are rodents in the grasses and in the trees, there are birds of many feathers, there are wildcats, and there are bears. 

Last week’s attack on a man near Madden by an aggressive grizzly is rare, but it is not a one-off. Just last October Jenny Gusse and Doug Inglis were stocked and killed by an aggressive grizzly in Banff National Park. 

And, of course, we all know by now the same grizzly which attacked the man near Madden last week had also killed another man, Dr. David Lertzman, in 2021.

All three attacks seemed to have one thing in common: they happened in isolated places where the victims were alone.

Bear spray made the difference between life and death when it came to the Madden area attack, and, indeed, carrying bear spray is recommended for everyone venturing off the beaten path in this region of the foothills and within the Rocky Mountains.

Other often stated tips which merit repeating in light of recent events when it comes to bear encounters are: Make your presence known, don't run or climb, respect wildlife, and pay attention to your surroundings. 

And finally– it is always dangerous venturing into the wild. Be prepared for anything.