With the exception of very remote areas in the western US, human development has made it virtually impossible for a black bear to travel within his or her home range without approaching someone's property. But people living in black bear habitat around the country have developed many creative, non-lethal techniques for solving human/bear conflicts.

Bears are opportunistic eaters, raiding trash cans and other human food sources if the opportunity presents itself. Once a bear learns of an easy food source, he or she will be back. If, on the other hand, food sources are not easily accessible the bear will move on to an easier target. It is incumbent upon those living in bear habitat to take steps to bear-proof their property.