About Appalachia Georgia Friends of the Bears

Our Mission

The Appalachia Georgia Friends of the Bears’ mission is to reduce Human-Bear conflict through proactive educational outreach programs, increase public awareness about coexisting with black bears, the use of humane bear deterrents, and advocacy.

Our Policies

We DO NOT support the use of dogs or the baiting of Black Bears in any way.

We DO NOT support “Trophy Hunting.” Trophy Hunting is defined as the hunting of wild animals for sport, not for food. Usually, the animal is taxidermized or a body part(s) is / are kept for display. We are firmly against trophy hunting.

Proverbs 12:27. The slothful man roasteth not that which he took in hunting: but the substance of a diligent man is precious. (King James Version)

In accordance with (IAW) Georgia Code § 27-3-26, it is unlawful to buy, sell, barter, or exchange a Black Bear or Black Bear part.  Any person violating this provision is subject to a fine of not less than $5,000.00 or confinement for a term not to exceed twelve (12) months or both upon conviction.

We OPPOSE the use of dogs to hunt Bears.

We WILL NOT be and are not an intelligence-gathering organization for Black Bear hunters.

We ARE NOT the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR);

  • If you are aware or suspect poaching or feeding of Black Bears, call the Georgia DNR Call the Ranger Hotline at 1-800-241-4113 (or *DNR for AT&T Mobility Customers) seven days a week, 24 hours a day.
  • Please provide a contact number so the Game Warden can contact you if more information is needed.
  • Please provide the county in which the violation occurred in. All information is strictly confidential, and you can remain anonymous.

WE DO NOT BEAR MANAGE!

We can assess your property for potential Bear attractant hazards.

We can educate you on how to avoid future Bear attractant hazards.

We ARE NOT local or state law enforcement. If you have an emergency, dial 911.