Parks Canada has implemented a no-stopping zone along the Bow Valley Parkway in Banff National Park to protect two bears that have been frequently seen along the railway track since April 2. The 320-meter stopping zone was put in place due to reports of bear jams, unsafe parking, and individuals leaving their vehicles to approach the bears. Park staff and law enforcement will be monitoring the area to ensure compliance, with penalties ranging from a $115 ticket to a maximum fine of $25,000 for disobeying the no-stopping zone. The area lacks a suitable shoulder for parking and traffic flow is disrupted by parked vehicles, making it unsafe for people to view the bears from a close distance.
The bears in the area are attracted to spilled grain, and despite efforts to deter them using hazing techniques, they continue to linger near the train tracks. With natural foraging areas covered in snow and the dispersed grain difficult to clean up effectively, the bears are drawn to this location. Parks Canada is asking for the public’s cooperation in keeping both people and wildlife safe, reminding everyone that disobeying closures or no-stopping zones is illegal. The agency needs support in ensuring the protection of bears and preventing dangerous encounters between wildlife and humans along the Bow Valley Parkway.
A local filmmaker, Andy Arts, has highlighted the risks that railroads and trains pose to bears in the national park. He posted a video on Facebook showing a bear known as The Boss narrowly avoiding a passing Canada Pacific Kansas City train. Arts recounted the experience of warning The Boss to move away as the train approached, expressing his respect for wildlife and emphasizing the importance of being mindful and considerate towards animals in their natural habitat. The spokesperson for CPKC stated that train whistles serve as a safety measure to alert individuals or animals on or near the tracks of an approaching train. The company has been working closely with Parks Canada to protect the national parks and mitigate factors affecting wildlife, including investing in vegetation management programs.
The incident involving The Boss and the passing train serves as a reminder of the potential dangers that bears face when traversing areas with active railways. Arts expressed his admiration for The Boss and urged people to respect wildlife and educate themselves about the creatures they share the environment with. The striking image of The Boss and the attention he received from the media highlight the beauty and significance of wildlife in Banff National Park. By fostering respect and appreciation for animals, individuals can contribute to the preservation of the natural habitat and the safety of both wildlife and visitors in the park.
Parks Canada emphasizes the need for public support in ensuring the safety of both people and wildlife in the area. The no-stopping zone along the Bow Valley Parkway aims to minimize interactions between bears and humans, reducing the risk of dangerous encounters. By following the regulations put in place and refraining from stopping in the designated area, visitors can contribute to the protection of the bears and maintain a safe environment for all. With continued efforts to deter bears from the railway tracks and educate the public on responsible wildlife viewing practices, Parks Canada and its partners are working towards fostering a harmonious coexistence between humans and wildlife in Banff National Park.
Overall, the implementation of the no-stopping zone, combined with public awareness and cooperation, is crucial in safeguarding the bears and promoting responsible behavior in the national park. The incident involving The Boss and the passing train serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges that wildlife face in areas with high human activity. By respecting closures, refraining from approaching wildlife, and considering the safety of both animals and visitors, individuals can play a role in preserving the unique biodiversity of Banff National Park and ensuring a positive and sustainable experience for all.
