Florida wildlife agency seeks plans to reduce bear conflicts

Florida wildlife officials are seeking plans from county and local governments to reduce conflicts between bears and humans.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission has $825,000 to distribute for programs that cut down on interactions between humans and bears. The agency said Monday in a news release that local governments have until Oct. 14 to submit proposals.

Officials say the programs should include such things as ordinances requiring bear-proof trash cans and provide for matching local money.

Florida last year held its first bear hunt in 21 years, resulting in more than 300 bears killed. The commission decided against holding another hunt this year amid vocal opposition from many individuals and environmental groups.