A bear- resistant bin is a specially designed garbage container with secure locking mechanisms to prevent bears and other wildlife from accessing its contents. This program aims to reduce human-wildlife interactions in the RMWB by minimizing attractants in residential areas.
How do the bear-resistant bins work?
These bear-resistant bins were selected for their ease of use, while ensuring garbage collection services continue as usual. You can download the step-by-step process or watch a how to video
Download the guide Watch the video
From pilot to expansion
In August 2023, the Municipality launched a pilot project in Saprae Creek Estates with 300 bear-resistant bins. Feedback showed 82% of residents felt more comfortable leaving bins outside between collection days.
In 2024, the program expanded with 1,400 bear-resistant bins delivered to homes in Draper, Gregoire Lake Estates, and Anzac. Select homes in Fort McMurray with the highest number of bear sightings, based on Alberta Fish and Wildlife data, also received bins.
Building on the success of these efforts, Council approved additional funding to further expand the program in 2025. This spring, more streets in Fort McMurray will receive bear-resistant bins, focusing on areas with the highest bear activity.
Bear-resistant bin program FAQ:
When will the 2025 selected homes be announced? |
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Homes selected to receive bins in 2025 will be announced in the spring. |
How are the bear-resistant bins being distributed? |
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This spring, additional streets in Fort McMurray will receive bear-resistant bins, prioritizing areas with the highest bear activity based on Alberta Fish and Wildlife data. |
How do I know if I’ve been selected for a bear bin? |
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Selected homes will be announced in the spring. Residents will receive a letter with details about the date and time of the exchange. |
What to do if you have a problem with your bin? |
| If you have a problem with your bin, please do not try to resolve it yourself - call PULSE at 780-743-7000 for assistance. |
What we heard from the Saprae Creek Pilot Project |
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A specific kind of bear-proof bin was provided to all homes in Saprae Creek in August 2023 as a pilot project. Residents were asked to take a short survey to share feedback on the pilot project. Here are the results of the survey:
With the positive results of the pilot project, additional bear-proof bins were provided to additional communities beginning in the Fall 2024. |
Bearsmart
Please remember that garbage bin management is only part of having good BearSmart habits. It is equally important to remove or manage other food sources on your property that are tempting to bears, such as fruit trees, bird feeders and pet food. Find BearSmart tips and more information at rmwb.ca/bearsmart.
If you have any questions, please contact PULSE at 780-743-7000