FVRD closed the dog park at Island 22 on Oct. 7 due to black bears hanging around the area. Another sighting was the bear pictured here near the University of the Fraser Valley and the RCMP’s training centre on Sept. 30, which was later tranquilized and relocated up the Chilliwack River Valley. (William Snow photo)

FVRD closed the dog park at Island 22 on Oct. 7 due to black bears hanging around the area. Another sighting was the bear pictured here near the University of the Fraser Valley and the RCMP’s training centre on Sept. 30, which was later tranquilized and relocated up the Chilliwack River Valley. (William Snow photo)

UPDATE: Dog park reopens after bear sightings in Chilliwack

The off-leash portion of FVRD's Island 22 Regional Park was reopened the day after it was shut down

Fraser Valley Regional District officials reopened the off-leash dog park at Island 22 Regional Park on Oct. 8 despite repeated sightings of a mama bear and cubs in the park.

Last week FVRD staff took down a pear-laden tree inside the fenced in section of the off-leash park hoping that would eliminate the food source and send the bears on their way. The off-leash park was shut down on Oct. 7 and then reopened on Oct. 8

READ MORE: Bear in Garrison was tranquilized and moved

That’s added to many bear sightings and reports to WildSafe BC and to the Conservation Officer Service this season across the Fraser Valley as they try to fatten up for the winter hibernation period.

WildSafe BC said the number one draw for bears is attractants, and securing them becomes part of preventing any conflicts.

Do you have something to add to this story, or something else we should report on? Email: jfeinberg@theprogress.com

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