Are Grizzly bears making their way to Utah?

Estimated read time: 5-6 minutes KEY TAKEAWAYS

Grizzlies may be returning to Utah after a recent sighting near the northern border of the state.

Experts highlight ecological benefits and challenges of grizzly recolonization.

Concerns include human safety and economic impacts alongside potential environmental advantages.

SALT LAKE CITY — With the death of Utah's last known grizzly more than 100 years ago , there hasn't been much cause for Utahns to ponder sharing the landscape with these long-absent apex predators.

But that may be changing. In April of 2024, a grizzly bear was seen approximately 20 miles east of Utah's northern border. The bear was not relocated and may or may not have crossed the invisible boundary separating Wyoming from Utah since then.

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