If the state wanted to, it could dramatically reduce the number of problematic bear encounters. One way would be to dramatically reduce the number of bears, at least in those areas where human population densities are most likely to create conflict. Another way would be to codify all the best bear practices—force people to manage their garbage and bird feeders more responsibly, adopt strict zoning that would shape development in ways that are less likely to attract bears, and stiffen penalties for those who feed wild bears.
