The Wyoming Game and Fish Department intends to capture grizzly bears in the northwestern part of the state through early fall.

The capture operations are part of ongoing efforts to monitor the population of grizzly bears in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. The department says it is committed to monitoring grizzly bears and demonstrating that the species, which is federally protected, has recovered and should be removed from the threatened species list in the future.

Trapping will take place in front and backcountry areas. When the bears are captured, they are marked, released on site and monitored in accordance with strict guidelines.

All areas where trapping is being conducted will have major access points marked with warning signs. All trap sites will be posted with area closure signs in the direct vicinity.

"It is critical that all members of the public heed these signs," the department said Tuesday.

Information gathered through the annual monitoring work is used to assess the status and health of grizzly bears in the ecosystem. It provides researchers with insight into population dynamics which are important in demonstrating recovery.

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