Boulder tightens leash rules to reduce bear run-ins

Boulder County has had a spate of bear sightings and incidents in recent weeks.

• Two black bears were seen on a trail in Eldorado Canyon State Park.
• Sheriff's deputies say bears have broken into multiple vehicles in the foothills.

The latest: From Friday through Dec. 1, dogs must be kept on a leash in the following areas deemed sensitive bear habitats:

• Portions of Gregory Canyon, Saddle Rock, Amphitheater and Bluebell-Baird trails.
• Skunk Canyon up to the Mesa Trail.
• Shadow Canyon South from the Mesa Trail up to the intersection with Shadow Canyon North.
• The upper part of the Doudy Draw Trail above Springbrook Loop.

A reminder: Bear-related leash restrictions mean you put the leash on the dog, not the bear. Bears don't like leashes.