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Keeping Bears Away A Priority In Glenwood Springs

GLENWOOD SPRINGS, Colo. (CBS4)- A new ordinance in Glenwood Springs could result in major fines for residents who don't store trash properly.

The ordinance is meant to keep bears away from the town.

Residents and business owners who don't keep their trash in a wildlife-resistant container will receive a $50 fine and a warning on their first offense. A second offense could result in fines of up to $500.

Glenwood Springs Bears
(credit: CBS)

"The only way to change a bear's behavior is to change a person's behavior and we've got to teach the people the right thing to do. Unfortunately the best way to get their attention is through a big fine," said Glenwood Springs Mayor Leo McKinney.

Last summer police in Glenwood Springs responded to more than 300 bear calls which cost taxpayers $11,000.

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