Being originally from a bear rich village, I can tell you that we have lived with bears for centuries. The trick is to make lots of noise, kill any that come close to human habitation, and make sure the ones who are alive know who is king of the jungle. One of my great uncles killed one with a spear after being attacked, my Mother used to talk about banging pots and pans together to shag them away from the home. There is so much we can and should be doing to protect their existence in this area though. Too many humans means not much wildlife, and I don't see the point of turning any part of Alaska into another city like the lower 48. I have seen how those folks live and it must suck because it looks like a scene from Dantes Inferno down there. Everyone packed like sardines, driving 2 hour one way commutes, everyone has a home with someone else to every side of them. Blaeh! I'd rather take my chances with the bears!