[Cdt-l] Grizzly Bear Tragedy

[Jim Wolf]

Field researcher Adam Stewart, 31, an experienced backpacker and 
certified Wilderness First Responder, was mauled and killed in Wyoming's 
Teton Wilderness last September 4.

Setting out to conduct a vegetation plot survey for his employer, a 
contractor for the Forest Service, he had hiked north from Brooks Lake, 
along the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail, past Bear Cub Pass 
to Cub Creek (WY guidebook Teton 5:16.1). After setting up his tent and 
hanging his food, he headed up a trail along Cub Creek for about a mile 
and a half, then started up a game trail toward his target area. About 
half a mile up the slope, he was evidently attacked, probably by a 
grizzly, near two mule deer carcasses, in relatively thick timber.

According to an investigation report [link available in 
_www.wyofile.com/field-worker-worried/grizzlies/_], the impetus for the 
attack was likely a combination of defense of the deer carcasses and a 
surprise encounter in an area of limited visual sight distance.

Several aspects of this tragedy might be kept in mind:

  * The victim, despite his knowledge and experience, apparently was not
    carrying bear spray.
  * He was hiking alone even though he had alerted his employer to his
    understanding that solo travel in remote locations such as this
    increases risks and the possibility of death or lifelong disability.
  * The bears may be more active late in the season, when they are
    thinking of hibernation, so wanting to fatten up.
  * There was no indication of predatory behavior; on the contrary, all
    signs point to the bear's defensive motivation.

We have lost an exceptional outdoorsman and conservationist. Bearing his 
experience in mind, let us hope that perilous encounters along the 
well-traveled CDT will be infrequent and that hikers will be 
knowledgeable and prepared.



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