Black bear on Timberline Drive -Jon Tupper
Over 2,000 new bins to be distributed on streets with high bear activity starting July 12
FORT McMURRAY, AB. — More than 2,000 bear-resistant bins will be delivered to Fort McMurray homes this summer as part of an ongoing effort to reduce human-wildlife conflicts in residential neighbourhoods.
The rollout begins July 12, starting at Burton Place, and will continue through the summer as shipments arrive. Streets were selected based on data from Alberta Fish and Wildlife, which identified the areas with the highest levels of bear activity. Affected residents will receive a letter about one week before their bin delivery.
The specialized bins are designed to prevent bears and other wildlife from accessing household waste. The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo says the program aims to keep communities safer by limiting potential attractants.
The expansion follows positive results from earlier phases of the program. A 2023 pilot in Saprae Creek Estates found that 82 per cent of participants felt more comfortable leaving bins outside between collection days. The program grew in 2024 to include Anzac, Draper, Gregoire Lake Estates, and select neighbourhoods in Fort McMurray.
The Municipality says more bins are being proposed through the 2026 budget and could be delivered to additional streets next year, pending Council approval.
For a list of affected streets and more information, visit rmwb.ca/bearbins.
Residents are also encouraged to reduce other attractants such as fallen fruit, pet food, and bird feeders. Additional safety tips can be found at rmwb.ca/bearsmart. Anyone with bin issues or questions can contact Pulse at 780-743-7000 or online at rmwb.ca/pulse.
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