For Immediate Release

In Alaska, finding your way into bear country is easy. All three North American species of bears are present and there is about one bear to every five human residents in our state. This close proximity spurs many bear stories, myths, and misconceptions.

John Hechtel, a wildlife biologist with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, believes that bears' actions can be anticipated through an understanding of bear behavior. He will share information about Alaska's bear population and some high-profile bear attacks in a free public lecture on Tuesday, Jan. 10. Hechtel's lecture, "Safety in Bear Country: The Science and the Nonsense," is the first installment in the 2006 Science for Alaska Lecture Series in Fairbanks. The lecture begins at 7 p.m. in the Westmark Gold Room. Show up early to enjoy informative displays and literature on Alaska bears. All ages are welcome!

The Science for Alaska Lecture Series is an annual event sponsored and coordinated by the Geophysical Institute at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. Lectures run every Tuesday at 7 p.m. in the Westmark Gold Room through February 14.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Information on all lectures and presenters in the 2006 Science for Alaska Lecture Series may be found online at http://www.scienceforalaska.com.

CONTACT:
John Hechtel, Alaska Department of Fish and Game Wildlife Biologist: (907) 267-2199 or (907) 746-6331
Amy Hartley, Geophysical Institute Information Officer: 474-5823