It’s time for the Mad River Valley 2023 Great Amazing Bear Story Contest!

With near-record bear counts this year it’s no wonder there are so many bear sightings in the Mad River Valley.  The VT Fish & Wildlife Department estimates 7,000-8,500 bears statewide, a 5-year high with an estimated 2,000 more animals than just a few years ago.  As bears seek and compete for new territories to call their own, we find more bears popping up all over our community.  It’s the perfect opportunity to embrace living in bear country by sharing collective stories, wildlife appreciations, and tips & tricks for our peaceful coexistence!

The MRV Bear Initiative wants to hear your best bear stories from 2023.  Share with others and become eligible to win some cool prizes!

Details:

Craft your story and submit it to the MRV Bear Initiative before Sunday, March 10th, 2024. Your story only needs to be long enough to capture the Bear Initiative’s attention.  Submit any or multiple formats of recorded media – an essay, pictures, drawings, a link to a video, a poem, a diorama, etc.  Choose the format that best fits your story.  Selected stories will be shared with the community as educational and inspirational opportunities for all of us to enjoy.  Check out the 2022 contest entries for inspiration.

To learn more, visit the following link:

Great Amazing Bear Story Contest