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Missoula approves bear buffer zone rules

By The Associated Press

Story Created: Feb 9, 2010 at 7:43 AM MST

Story Updated: Feb 9, 2010 at 7:43 AM MST

MISSOULA - The Missoula City Council has approved a "bear buffer zone" requiring residents living in certain areas to use bear-resistant containers or limit the times their garbage is outside and accessible to bears.

The council approved the plan Monday and it goes into effect in 30 days, putting the rules in place before bears come out of hibernation and start foraging for food.

Residents in places bears frequent such as Rattlesnake and Grant Creek and who don't use special trash containers will have to keep the containers inside between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m.

The fine for violating the new ordinance is $25, but that won't take effect until next year.

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