Alaska Bear Cull Sparks Guide Outrage

Hunting guides in Southwest Alaska are expressing deep concern over the state's aerial bear cull, implemented to revive the Mulchatna caribou herd. Guides like Gabe Davis and Joe Kazimirowicz report seeing significantly fewer bears, directly impacting their businesses which rely on trophy hunting opportunities.

Alaska's Department of Fish and Game defends the program, stating it's crucial for managing wildlife and legally mandated to maximize prey species. Commissioner Doug Vincent-Lang maintains the cull in a small area won't harm the overall bear population, as guides still see ample bears and successfully hunt them.

However, guides dispute these claims, noting a sharp drop in bear sightings since the program began in 2023. They also question the state's methods, citing instances where bear carcasses, including those of cubs, were not properly handled. This has led to accusations of questionable science and potential harm to the ecosystem.

Guides like Mike Vanstrom and Buck Williams are particularly troubled by the indiscriminate killing of sows and cubs. They believe the program's science is weak and that the focus should perhaps be on wolves, which they see as greater threats to caribou. The economic impact is substantial, with some guides estimating significant revenue losses.