Grizzly Bear Society

New and exciting changes are occurring at the Grizzly Bear Refuge this year.  In order to move forward on the vision of the program, there is a newly incorporated society, overseeing the operation of the Grizzly Bear Refuge and the future development including a potential, leading edge raise and release program.  The society is now called the Kicking Horse Country Grizzly Bear Society, and operates the Grizzly Bear Refuge.  Financially the society is still under the wing of Kicking Horse Mountain Resort. The intent however, is that the Kicking Horse Country Grizzly Bear Society becomes   financially dependent and separate from the resort.  The resort would remain the venue, but the society will have independent vision and mission.   This is an exciting time for the Kicking Horse Country Grizzly Bear Refuge.  We are taking bold steps to fulfill the initial goals of the Grizzly Bear Refuge of future raise and release programs.  The society has been created to ensure the program continues to move forward and progress in all capabilities.

The goals of the Kicking Horse Country Grizzly Bear Society are similar to the original stated goals of the Grizzly Bear Refuge.  Our mission statement has three main objectives.

• To provide a secure large natural permanent home for our resident orphaned grizzly bear, Boo. 
• Research resident cubs to create a protocol for raise and release.
• Educate the public and help conserve the blue listed grizzly bear.

The society has a board of directors and the society is governed as per all non profits.  The board of directors has the opportunity to call upon experts with vast grizzly bear knowledge to assist them in the future direction of the program.  A master’s thesis is being commenced by one board member to compile previous research at the refuge and to help create this raise and release protocol.    As all non profits fund raising will become a major part of our endeavors where all funds will go back into the future development of the program and the future raise and release program.  Fundraising for the 2007 season includes; non-voting society members, an 18 month calendar of Boo for sale and donations.  Becoming a non-voting society member offers visitors and followers of Boo, an opportunity to become part of our future.  More information is always available by contacting the Grizzly Bear Refuge staff.