Romania Introduces Significant Fines for Feeding Wild Bears
The Romanian government has enacted a new emergency ordinance imposing substantial fines on those who feed wild bears, announced Environment Minister Diana Buzoianu on Thursday, November 6.
Key Definitions and Objectives
The legislation clearly defines terms such as "feeding of bears" and "habituated bear," with the goal of discouraging behaviors that attract bears into human-populated areas, according to Agerpres.
Details of the Fines
- Fines for feeding wild bears will range from RON 10,000 to RON 30,000 (approximately EUR 2,000–6,000).
New Protocols for Bear Encounters
The ordinance also establishes new intervention procedures for bear-human encounters in urban settings. Local emergency committees will have the authority to take immediate actions such as driving the bear away, relocating it, or in extreme cases, shooting it without following the usual multi-step protocol.
These committees can convene electronically, enabling faster decision-making even when all members are not physically present at the incident location.
Role of Local Authorities
Representatives from Local Police may participate in emergency committees, substituting for the Gendarmerie when necessary, to accelerate response times.
"The ordinance also introduces new intervention rules for bear–human incidents in urban areas," said Environment Minister Diana Buzoianu.
Author's summary: Romania's new law enforces heavy fines and streamlined emergency responses to prevent feeding bears and reduce wildlife conflicts in urban areas.