Preventing bears from obtaining human foods is one of the top priorities of Yellowstone's wildlife managers. Bears that gain access to human food eventually become more aggressive toward humans, and may need to be removed from the population.

Fortunately, there is a solution. The use of large, bear-proof storage containers, or "bear boxes" is a proven method to prevent bears from becoming conditioned to human foods. However, less than 25% of the campsites in roadside campgrounds — the most likely place for a Yellowstone bear to obtain food — currently have bear boxes for safe food storage.

You can help make the Park safer for visitors and bears! Now, the Yellowstone Park Foundation is offering individuals and groups a unique opportunity to Sponsor a Bear Box.

For each $1,100 in contributions, Yellowstone will install a bear box in a Park campground. Thanks to generous donations, we have already raised enough funds for the Park to purchase more than 50 boxes, and the Foundation has committed to helping Yellowstone purchase more.

Gifts of any amount toward this important effort are greatly needed and sincerely appreciated. When you make any size contribution toward the purchase of a bear box, you will receive all the great benefits of being a Friend of Yellowstone. Plus, you'll have the satisfaction of knowing that you are playing a direct role in protecting Yellowstone's magnificent bears.

Donors at the following giving levels will receive additional benefits and recognition:

With your $500 donation, you will receive:

• Your name, or your group's name, listed online

With your $1,100 Bear Box Sponsorship, you will receive:

• Your name, or your group's name, engraved on a 4" x 6" plate that is permanently affixed to a bear box in a Yellowstone campground
• Your name, or your group's name, posted on a "virtual bear box" online

Watch this 2-minute video to learn more about bear safety precautions for visitors.

Due to the increased cost of both steel and shipping, the contribution needed to sponsor a bear box went up in December 2010 from $1,000 to $1,100.