Comprehensive Black Bear (Ursus americanus) Management Policy

Abstract

This document defines the New Jersey Fish and Game Council’s (Council) comprehensive black bear (Ursus americanus) policies and recommendations regarding the continued management of resident black bears (bears) to ensure their continued existence in suitable habitat. As is the case with any wildlife species under their jurisdiction, the Council will periodically re-evaluate its policies, recommendations and regulations as information on the species’ status and the needs of New Jersey’s citizens warrant. Policy considerations regarding black bears cannot be based solely upon the biological carrying capacity of the land to support black bears. Black bear policies and management goals must consider the number of black bears that can co-exist compatibly with the local human population in a given area.