MORGANTOWN, WV (LOOTPRESS) – West Virginia University issued a Community Notice on Monday, June 16, after reports of at least one black bear sighting near the PRT Central Maintenance Facility at 99 8th Street, close to the Morgantown campus.
According to the WVU Police Department, officers responded quickly to the area but were unable to locate a bear.
Students, staff, and residents are urged to exercise caution. In the event of a bear encounter, authorities advise calling 911 immediately.
The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (DNR) reports that black bears are rarely aggressive and that attacks are uncommon.
Still, they advise taking precautions when in bear territory.
The DNR provides the following safety tips:
- If you spot a bear before it notices you, remain still and do not approach. Quietly move away in the opposite direction.
- If the bear is aware of your presence, do not run. Running may trigger a chase. Instead, back away slowly and wait for the bear to leave.
- Always keep dogs on a leash. Allowing dogs to bark at or chase a bear can provoke a defensive response.
- Avoid wearing earbuds while jogging or cycling. Move cautiously and make periodic noise to avoid surprising a bear.
