Los Alamos County has officially declared August 2025 as Bear Month, a move aimed at promoting coexistence with local wildlife, particularly the American black bear. The proclamation, read during the County Council's regular session on July 29, emphasizes the importance of bear safety practices for residents and visitors. Key recommendations include making noise while in the wilderness, securing food and garbage, and remaining calm during bear encounters.

The announcement coincides with the upcoming BearFest, scheduled for August 23 at the Los Alamos Nature Center. This annual event, hosted by the Pareto Environmental Education Center and the Land of Enchantment Wildlife Foundation, will feature educational activities designed to raise awareness about human-wildlife interactions and promote safety for both bears and people.

In addition to the bear proclamation, the council also designated August 2025 as Distracted Driving Awareness Month. This initiative aims to address the alarming statistics surrounding distracted driving, which resulted in over 3,200 fatalities nationwide in 2023. The Los Alamos Police Department will lead a campaign from August 1 to August 17, encouraging residents to adopt safer driving habits and utilize technology to minimize distractions.

These proclamations reflect the county's commitment to public safety and environmental stewardship, urging community members to engage in responsible practices that protect both wildlife and human lives.