Even though bear complaints and sightings are down significantly this year, New Jersey's black bears are currently searching for food in preparation for the winter, and there may be encounters with residents and nuisance complaints.
As part of an ongoing public education effort, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has put together safety information. Please click on this link for important reminders and tips that will help minimize the potential for conflicts between people and bears. Whether you encounter one in the Middletown area, or if you are visiting the many parks, wildlife management areas, and other open spaces in bear country, you will benefit from knowing how to react.