[pct-l] RE: PCT Aspirant Seeking Advice!

["Kurt Herzog" <kpherzog@cdsnet.net>]

Richard asked:

>>(3) I've heard rumors that backpackers in Oregon
>>have had encounters with reintroduced grizzlies...

This is totally bogus as far as Oregon goes.  There are no grizzlies
(unfortunatly), natives or reintroduced, in Oregon.  You may see
plenty of Black bears, however.  For the most part Oregon bears are
much more benign than the California version.. ours tend to be seen
only in a cloud of dust, rapidly departing.  You will need to protect
you food at night though.

There is a reintroduction _study_ currently underway in Washington,
with the possibility of reintroducing Griz at some time in the future.
There is some evidence that there _may_ be some Griz in Washington, in
North Cascades National Park.  The evidence at this point is thin and
inconclusive.

Your bigger worry in Oregon or Washington is getting hit by a car at
the many road crossings.

Good luck . . . Kurt  (Oregon resident & Tom McCall fan)


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