The Wind River Bear Institute's (WRBI's) "Partners in Life" program is the only one of its kind in the world. Founded and led by veteran bear biologist Carrie Hunt, its goal is to reduce human-bear conflicts and change how problem bears are handled worldwide. Says Hunt, "We have developed our methodology, the blanket approach to problem bears commonly used today - that of relocation and destruction - must fade into history as something we do as an exception rather than the norm."

The Program provides agencies and the public with effective long-term solutions to human-bear conflicts. Hunt has developed a technique she calls "bear shepherding" that teaches bears how to recognize and avoid human territorial boundaries. Bear Shepherding includes preventative education where communities are taught how to eliminate the most common cause of conflict such as food attractants, food conditioning, and habituation to people and their "territory".

Your financial support of our programs is critical!

WRBI is an IRS designated , 501(c)3 non-profit corporation.  What does that mean for WRBI?  Operating under the 501(c)3 designation allows WRBI to accept tax-deductible donations directly from our supporters like you. To learn more, click on our donations link in the upper right hand corner of this page.