JACKSON, Wyo. — Often stories are passed around about grizzly bear attacks and maulings, but what about the powerful, peaceful or positive moments that can be shared with them? The Wyoming Wildlife Advocates have released a call for stories and poems about positive experiences with grizzly bears. Nonfiction submissions will be accepted until May 31.

Grizzly bear protections through the Endangered Species Act are hotly debated at statewide and federal levels. According to the nonprofit, grizzlies could be delisted this year, potentially making them eligible for trophy hunting. Some Wyomingites in favor of delisting the grizzly argue that the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem population has recovered enough to return management to state agencies.

Wyoming Wildlife Advocates’ aim in collecting stories and poems from the community is to “show lawmakers how important grizzlies are to people from coast to coast and all over the world,” according to the press release.

Stories and poems from the community are hoped to “show lawmakers how important grizzlies are to people from coast to coast and all over the world,” according to the press release.

Submissions will be compiled in a printed book. Those interested in submitting pieces can do so here. Guidelines for submissions can be reviewed here.

Hannah is a Buckrail Staff Reporter and freelance web developer and designer who has called Jackson home since 2015. When she’s not outside, you can probably find her eating a good meal, playing cribbage, or at one of the local yoga studios. She’s interested in what makes this community tick, both from the individual and collective perspective.