Bears in compost bins?

Question

Hi there and thank you for answering my question as best you can ? I am about to have a wire garden fence with treated post put around the perimeter of my garden. I also want to build a three-bin compost area out of wooden pallets within the gardens perimeter which is about a thousand square feet (25×40 square). we are in a mountain area so there are some black bears that occasionally come down. With the fence that will probably be five feet high do you think it will be bear proof with a good strong Garden gate made of cedar? I guess my question is can a black bear take down a fence like that? the three bins are for various stages of the compost process. Thank you!

Answer 1

If you have lived in bear habitat, you know that they are powerful and determined when there is an attractive food source available. If you manage your compost well, and don't use animal matter, it will be less attractive to bears. They also are attracted to kitchen scraps within the pile. If you bury them close to the center of the pile where it is hotter, they might not scavange.

When it comes to bears, it is usually advised to get a closed bin system with ventillation or use an electric fence.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/animals/bear-control.htm