Conservation area closed due to bears

File photo.

The Laurentian Escarpment Conservation Area and trails are closed effective immediately by the North Bay-Mattawa Conservation Authority due to increasing contact between a mother bear and those using the trails. 

Two cyclists were charged by the bear around 11 this morning. 

The cyclists report the bear charged them and came within four feet before stopping.  The sighting took place near the hydro line at the northern portion of the Conservation Area.

NBMCA has notified Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry as well as City of North Bay Police.

LECA will be closed for the weekend and the situation reassesed on Monday.

Signs will be posted at the trailhead, and several common access points;  however there are multiple, unmarked and side trails not managed by NBMCA which the public use to access the area.