Bear spray giveaway planned at National Elk Refuge

Wyoming hunters and fishermen can pick up a free canister of bear spray at the National Elk Refuge Thursday, September 20.

The refuge and Wyoming Game and Fish will distribute bear spray at no cost to anyone with a Wyoming hunting or fishing license.

Bear Wise Wyoming Coordinator Dusty Lasseter said 100 cans will be given away on a first-come-first-served basis beginning at 8 a.m. in the Jackson Hole and Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center.

In addition to receiving a free cannister, participants can practice using the spray with inert training cans. Local large carnivore biologists will also be on hand to answer questions. It is part of an effort to raise awareness and safety for those hunting or fishing in bear country this fall.

The spray was purchased with the help of donations from the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Wyoming Outdoorsmen, and the Western Bear Foundation. Additional cans will be on sale inside the visitor center.