(Moran, WY) — Wildlife officials are urging the public to practice safe and ethical behavior along Togwotee Pass.
“In recent weeks, significant bear jams and poor wildlife viewing ethics have been observed along Togwotee Pass. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Wyoming Game and Fish Department, and U.S. Forest Service staff are patrolling the area daily to minimize traffic jams and prioritize public safety,” an interagency press release posted Friday states.
Bear Wise Jackson Hole – a partnership including the U.S. Forest Service, Wyoming Game and Fish Department, Grand Teton National Park, and others – reminds visitors that stopping, standing, or parking along the road is illegal and endangers people and bears. Daily patrols are underway to manage traffic and protect wildlife.
“As a reminder: stopping, parking, or standing on or along the road is illegal and poses significant risks to other motorists and grizzly bears, whose behavior can be unpredictable, particularly with offspring.”
Officials ask the public to stay in vehicles, maintain at least 100 yards of distance from bears and wolves, and use only designated paved pullouts. Feeding wildlife is prohibited, and drivers should slow down and stay alert for animals crossing the road.
Continued unsafe practices may lead to additional restrictions. To learn more about coexisting responsibly with wildlife, visit bearwisejh.org.