On a recent trip into one of my favourite watersheds, I was surprised by the lack of bears and bear sign in the area. This is a high alpine area along the divide and it would appear the bears have moved down into the valley. Huckleberry bushes show no sign of ever having produced a berry and this probably has an effect, I'm sure. The intensely hot, dry July/August has certainly affected the habitat. Bad news for people down in the valley, as far as bear encounters are concerned, but less so along the divide; at least in this particular area. GD
