Urgent Closure: Bear Raids Picnics, White Pine Beach Shut Down

BREAKING: White Pine Beach in Belcarra Regional Park is officially closed as of Saturday due to a bear becoming a serious threat to visitors. The closure comes just as temperatures are rising, making this popular cooling spot inaccessible for now.

Officials from Metro Vancouver confirmed that a “nuisance bear” has been raiding picnics, prompting immediate action to protect both the public and the bear. “He grabbed the bag, went back in the bush and I think it popped out again… and I think it did that three times,” said Marcel LaBreche from Metro Vancouver Park Operations. “Because it didn’t leave the area, we decided it was best for public safety and the bear safety to close the park.”

This marks the second closure of the beach this year due to bear activity, with the previous incident occurring in May involving a different bear. Officials are focused on breaking the bear’s habit of scavenging food left unattended, hoping that by removing its food source, the animal will leave the area when hunger strikes.

The closure raises safety concerns for visitors, particularly with the long weekend approaching. While White Pine Beach is off-limits, other areas of Belcarra Park remain open. A strict cooking ban is in effect, and park staff are actively monitoring the situation, reminding visitors not to leave food unattended.

As the situation develops, authorities have yet to announce whether the beach will reopen for the long weekend. The community is urged to stay updated and prioritize safety as bear encounters continue to rise in the region.

For those planning to visit, it’s crucial to stay informed about park regulations and bear activity. With summer in full swing, the safety of both humans and wildlife remains a top priority in Metro Vancouver.