Bears have already been a nuisance in several towns in the Adirondacks this year, and the state Department of Environmental Conservation is asking the public for help in reducing and reporting the number of problem bears in the state.

The DEC asks that if you or your neighbors are having issues with bears, report it to DEC dispatch at 518-897-1326.

The easiest way to avoid issues with bears is to remove any attractants, such as garbage, grills, pet food and bird feeders.

Homeowners can reduce the chances of having bears around by storing garbage cans and grills in a secure spot.

Garbage can be protected with chains and locks or by using an electric fence. Garbage containers should be kept indoors and only put out immediately prior to collection.

Bird feeders and suet should also be taken down, and pets should only be fed indoors.

DEC said in a press release that “when reported immediately, nuisance bear issues can often be resolved by working with community members to increase public awareness and remove attractants. When nuisance bears go unreported, they may quickly become a significant safety hazard for people and/or pets, and such scenarios often have undesirable outcomes for both people and bears.”

You can learn more about reducing bear issues by visiting www.dec.ny.gov/animals/6995.html.