Lynn Rogers and Charlie Russell June 28, 2013 Whatever happens, never let go of your connection to bears. Spread the word. We know from your messages that you recognize education is the key to bear survival—in North America and around the world. We must fight to continue the research. No matter what happens, we will continue to educate.
With the DNR poised to destroy our research, we need an injunction to delay removal of the collars. We also need an investigation into the DNR allegations. A legitimate case would be one thing, but the DNR is using unfounded allegations, falsified bear complaints, and grossly distorted public statements to sway the public against our research as we detailed in our recent report Permit Perspectives June 2013. We need to meet with Governor Mark Dayton and we need the help of powerful officials to make that happen. We are weighing options.
This morning we gave Charlie Russell a tour of the North American Bear Center. He was impressed—especially by the 60+ videos depicting various aspects of bear life. He was also impressed by the volunteers and staff drawn together by their mutual interest in bears. We reluctantly said good-bye to Charlie and immediately began preparing for the first summer bear course, which began this afternoon.
Thank you for all you do.
—Lynn Rogers and Sue Mansfield, Biologists, Wildlife Research Institute and North American Bear Center
All photos taken today unless otherwise noted.