A bear made its way across the Walters State Community College recently, headed towards the Oak Hills Subdivision.

Was it on the way to see a massive sunflower patch (see left)? Who can say?

But one this is sure, as spring has turned to summer in East Tennessee, bears are on the move and sightings have been reported across the Lakeway Area.

The Morristown Police Department reminded residents that simply seeing bear isn’t enough to trigger a a response from the police or the Tennessee Wildlife Resource Agency.

The Morristown Police Department has received calls regarding bear sightings over the last few days. Tennessee Wildlife Resource Agency’s (TWRA) website makes the following recommendations relating to bear sightings:

• Never feed or approach bears.

• Secure food, garbage, recycling.

• Remove bird feeders when bears are active.

• Never leave pet food outdoors.

• Clean and store grills.

• Alert neighbors to bear activity.

TWRA has stated they will respond to a bear call if the animal is being destructive or aggressive toward humans or other animals.

Bearwise.org offered the following additional tips if you encounter a bear.

In or Near a Building or Dumpster

Back away from the bear. Give the bear a clear escape route; do not corner it.

Leave any doors open; do not lock the bear in a room.

In Your Yard or Garden

From a safe distance, make loud noises to scare away the bear.

When the bear leaves, remove or secure potential attractants.

Always check your yard for bears before letting out dogs.

In Camp

If a bear comes into camp, do not approach it.

Group together. Yell, make noise, throw objects (not food) to scare it away.

If a bear enters your tent, FIGHT BACK with anything available.

Surprise Encounter at Close Range

If the bear has cubs, a food source or no clear escape route, backing away slowly may convince the bear you are not a threat.