I grew up in LaCrosse and have over 20 (not exaggerating) uncles and aunts + my parents that live in LaCrosse county.
None of my family or extended family which includes 7 farms have ever seen a black bear until the last 3 years. Bears weren't around this area until the last, as you say, about 5 years. And as far as LaCrosse city limits, less yet.
They are spreading south as the numbers increase.
