I'm a avid hiker and person…

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019-0022

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32478

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I'm a avid hiker and person who likes to lead others on trails in Ontario and I think this proposal puts hikers at unnecessary risk. Reducing the 200 m distance to 30 m has no benefit yet could create a lot more surprise encounters between bears and hikers and other trail users. Bear behavior is largely based on seeking food and baiting is already creating problem behavior by enticing bears to human food sources.
I am concerned for the welfare of both the bears and the people who may encounter them at such close range.
The proposal also shortens the distance being given for bear baiting in proximity to roads and could lead to more deaths of bears by vehicles.
While there's no benefit to decreasing the distance, there's definitely risks and I ask you not to change the regulation to allow bear baiting in close proximity to trails and roads.