The Board of Game this weekend will debate what would be the first-ever Alaska aerial predator control program targeting bears. The proposal is aimed at boosting the moose population in an area near Bethel. Wolf shooting in the area failed to aid the population, reports the Alaska Public Radio Network.
David James, regional supervisor with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game ... says he doesn't know how many bears the program would target, but it would involve shooting both black and brown bears.
"From a biological standpoint it's the most efficient way to get the results that we desire," James said.
He says moose populations are so low, hunting is either closed or severely restricted in the area. He says that has had a devastating impact on local families who count on the meat to fill their freezers.
