2016 Top-Rated Nonprofit

North American Bear Center

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Nonprofit Overview

Causes: Animal Services, Animals, Arts & Culture, Museums, Wildlife Sanctuaries

Mission: The Need for the Bear Center: Bears have been unfairly demonized worldwide in folklore, print, movies, and taxidermy. Generations have been raised to fear them or perceive them as economic risks. All 8 bear species are now listed as vulnerable, threatened, or endangered in parts or all of their ranges. Black bears, the most numerous species, are listed as threatened or endangered in 5 states but are expanding in the Upper Midwest and northeastern United States. There is a worldwide need to replace myths with facts, teach practical methods for minimizing conflicts, preserve habitat, and stop poaching for body parts. The need for accurate information becomes ever more urgent as more and more people move into bear habitat.

Community Stories

144 Stories from Volunteers, Donors & Supporters

2

Becky R General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/26/2018

We just love the NABC !!

I've been to the NABC many times over the past 6 years - including summer 2018. When I say many times, we live in the UK, so we tend to visit Ely for about a week at a time - and within each week we probably go to the NABC 4 or 5 times.!!


The NABC provides a unique experience to read and learn about Bears - especially American Black Bears, as well as the nature that lives in the surrounding area.

Within the bear center, there are many exhibits and video clips showing things such as bear behaviour, vocalisations, food and misconceptions. There is a theatre to watch longer bear films, and the Northwoods ecology hall which has exhibits of other animals and habitats which are found in the surrounding Northwoods area. In 2018 there is a new exhibit on Dr Lynn Rogers, who has been studying black bears for over 40 years - and who set up the NABC and has provided many of the photo's there.

The highlight though of any visit is seeing the bears !. There are 4 Ambassador bears - Ted, Lucky, Holly and Tasha - each has some information about them in the center and then you can sit and watch/ view the outside area. (either from inside or outside). The bears rotate - so are not always out in the main enclosure - or if they are in the enclosure you may not be able to see them (its about 2.5 acres)- however there is 'enrichment time' when the bears are given enrichment treats and the NABC also offers a 'behind the scenes' tour where you walk to see which ever bears are currently in their own enclosures.

There is a 'beary' good gift shop to see on the way out - and leaving Ely doesn't mean leaving the NABC as the team have web cams in various locations that allow around the year live feeds from the NABC. The staff at the NABC are all friendly and knowledgeable - often volunteering for the roles they do.

The NABC provides facts and data to make you question some of the assumptions we all have about these wonderful animals. Definitely worth a few hours of your time...….. we hope to go back again soon.

1

Writer General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/26/2018

I am from the UK and have always been interest in wildlife. About 5 years ago myself and my wife went to Canada and went on a trip with someone who has been studying Black Bears for over 20 years. When we got back to the UK we came across a BBC TV documentary about Dr Lynn Rogers who has been studying them for more than 40 years.

We both wanted to come to Minnesota to see for ourselves the Bear Center so we came over in 2014. We were so impressed by what the Center does in educating us all on the lives of these wonderful animals that we have comeback to Minnesota another 2 times in 2016 and also in August 2018. We have therefore seen the positive transformation of the Center over these 4 years and the additional educational features than have been added. The people who work at the Center are so committed to the project and they give such a positive perspective on the Bears. There are 4 captive bears (Ted, Lucky, Holly and Tasha) at the NABC. It is obvious that they are so well cared for and have lots of space (2.5 acres I believe) to roam around in and do what Bears do.

They operate on a small budget and most staff are volunteers who do an amazing job and are very knowledgeable. There are staff members around the Center to offer assistance with information should you be interested in learning. The building is massive and there are so many educational displays both on televisions screens, a movie theatre and beautifully presented information boards that you could easily spend a couple of days reading and watching everything there is to see. Both children and adults enjoy seeing the bears from the huge glass windows or go upstairs on to the outside deck. It is amazing to see such a heavy animal climb so quickly and easily. You get the chance to go out back on a behind the scene tour and see the bears close up too. Again children and adults have plenty to see to keep them all interested and entertained. The admission price is very reasonable and I would expect it to be at least double what it is. It is well worth the price. There is also an extensive gift shop with loads of variety. I highly recommend visiting The North American Bear Centre.

In summary the Bear Center is so lucky to have Dr Lynn Rogers spend his entire life learning about these beautiful animals and to give us this informative centre. I know we will keep coming back.

1

Gala M. Donor

Rating: 5

10/24/2018

This was an amazing place. The work that Dr. Rogers has done is out of this world. I learned so much. Will be going again!

1 Don- J.

Don- J. Donor

Rating: 5

10/29/2016

Great organization. Been there 3 times since 2010, an hope to visit them in 2017. The resident bears are awesome to see in person in the summer. You can also watch them on live cam daily. There are daily presentations given outside with the resident bears present by the interns that are very knowledgeable. The bears inhabit about a 2 1/2 acre enclosure , designed with the bears happiness in mind. There are also daily 'met the bears' behind the scenes tours to get up close an personal. Of course there is a fence between you an the bears, at all timers, since it isn't a petting zoo. It is worth the time to visit when in Ely, Minnesota. Please also visit The International Wolf Center, an Dorothy Molter Museum.

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3

Donor

Rating: 5

01/18/2014

GREAT place to visit. i was there in 2013 an will go again in 2014. the bear center has brought me back to journeys to ELY,MN after many years of not going there. NABC has given me a MAIN REASON for going again. TED, LUCKY, an HONEY are so interesting to watch an enjoy. the addition of HOLLY bear in DECEMBER gives added incentive to visit. ALL the bears are greatly loved an cared for.

ANY negative comments in reviews are by a couple people with personal vendetta against NABC an people who support the organization. please ignore their untruths.

i have donated to NABC an will continue to.

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Emily22 Donor

Rating: 5

10/29/2016

I have not been able to physically visit the Wildlife Research Institute and the North American Bear Center in Ely, but I feel as if I have. The research done by Dr Lynn Rogers and Sue Mansfield has been significant in opening the eyes of so many people around the world about the true nature of black bears. Along the way, Dr Rogers has taught us much about other wildlife in the area and the ecological consequences of many human endeavors...both positive and negative. We have also learned of the difficulties of dealing with the many misconceptions about black bears, even among those who should be the protectors of this wildlife resource. I donate as often as I am able to WRI and the NABC, and look forward to the long continuation of this research.

1 handymandy

handymandy General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/27/2016

I've been to the bear center 4 times when I've traveled to Ely for an annual gathering of bear supporters and friends. It is one of the highlights of my trip! It has so much information on bears and how to coexist with them. The recent additions and improvements make it a state-of-the art museum! And I adore seeing the resident bears, Ted, Lucky, Holly, and now Tasha. If you haven't been there it's worth the trip!

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3

General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

07/31/2014

I have been to Ely the last 3 summers for vacation. The first place I stop is the NABC. I love to go there, see the displays and see the bears. Contrary to some other reviews I've read, they do not keep the bears "locked up" in cages. They have their den areas where they rest but the bears are out a lot. I particularly enjoyed seeing Holly, the newest resident bear. This 19 month old bear is a joy to watch. It's especially fun to watch her and Lucky play and to see her start to stand up to Honey, the dominant female. The staff and volunteers are great. They are always ready and willing to help, to answer questions or to inform us of what the bears are doing and why. The gift shop has a lot of merchandise, most of which is very reasonable. I could have spent a lot of money there. I highly suggest people stop by there, especially if you have children. It's very educational. Before I started going to Ely, I thought all bears were aggressive and violent. Not so with the American Black Bear. They are gentle creatures. They are very smart. They are wonderful mothers to their cubs. Do yourself a favor. Go see the NABC.

4

moonlight1232 Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/22/2016

I started volunteering for this organization a few years ago. I had been following them for several years prior to that and decided that I wanted to be a part of this team, in whatever manner i could..
What I've found is that people all over the globe volunteer for this organization.These people give their time for a company that is striving to educate everyone on the scientific research information that comes from years of study.
Working with all of these wonderful human beings is such a great experience and I have learned so much from being a part of this amazing group of people. Information that was learned from my childhood has proved to be false, which gives me much knowledge to continue to grow as a person.
I strongly advocate for the North American Bear Center (NABC) and hope you find this information useful and give them a 'look'.. One of the links for more knowledge is: http://www.bear.org/website/
Their 'sister site' for additional information is: http://www.bearstudy.org/website/

5

sk8bears Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/21/2016

One of the best things I ever found was the bear.org site for the NABC.I have always loved bears- Smokey Bear was my favorite book- so when I saw on the news that a bear was going to be born live on camera I tuned in and was hooked on this place. I waited and waited for days - setting my alarm hourly during the night to check if a cub had arrived yet. Then watching and hearing the new cubs was amazing. Watching them grow was amazing and the information that I learned and the old myths that were dispelled kept me coming back for more and more . Then I was asked to volunteer as a moderator. It has been one of the best experiences I have had. I can't say enough about the level of education the NABC provides to anyone interested in learning. From the cub room for the youngest visitors to seeing the live bears up close on a behind the scenes tour to learning and sharing on the chat page for those too far away to visit. You know they are doing something right when you have guests and volunteers from all over the world. People fly across the ocean to visit family- see New York and other popular destinations but to have world travelers make The North American Bear Center their destination speaks volumes about how wonderful the NABC is

5

Lisa589 Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/21/2016

Everyone there is so inviting to answer any questions, the staff are amazing. Its a great place to learn not only about black bears but other wildlife.

6

supportthebears1 Board Member

Rating: 5

10/21/2016

The North American Bear Center is a wonderful educational facility. It has something for everyone. Whether you are interested in science, biology, or nature, you are sure to find something of interest. All of the displays are easy to read and understand. The videos of wild bear behavior are outstanding. You could easily spend 3-4 hours there and still not see everything. What better way than to learn directly from the bears?

5

TheRonald General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/21/2016

​NABC has so much useful information on how to co-exist with black bears. As well as what to do when or if encountering them and how to prevent encounters. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable. Will take the time to discuss in detail any questions you have. Always very friendly. Pleasant way to start the day in the chat room chatters and moderators are the best for family friendly interactions.

6

Grace45 Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/21/2016

My husband and I were able to drive up to Minn from Alabama to visit the Bear Center a couple years ago, we had been watching the den cam's in the wild and at the center before that, was over joyed to get to meet the staff and see the bears at the center in person. Since that visit they have done many more updates and improvements to the center, it's still on our bucket list to go back again. I have had the joy of being included as one of the online chat mod's for the bear center and have learned so much from the staff, other mod's, Doc and the researchers. I even won a personal phone call from Doctor Rogers, that was like a phone call from our own kind of Rock Star :) or should I say Bear Star, CrittersRUs

6

4 Bears Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/21/2016

This is an exceptional educational facility devoted to teaching the truth about black bears. The Northwoods Ecology Hall focuses on the other animals they must co-exist with in Northeastern MN. They have 4 resident Ambassador bears . Hourly programs are offered to see these bears close up. Worldwide podcasts daily for additional learning anywhere in the world. Numerous exhibits, videos, pictures and documentaries for additional indoor learning. Knowledgeable staff to answer all your question. A must see if you are in Northeastern MN.

4

Anita58 Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/21/2016

This year was my 6th annual trip to NABC from the UK. Each year I have seen improvements have been made. Apart from the bears who are always a joy to watch, there is always so much to learn. Not just about bears but all wildlife of the Northwoods. The staff are always very welcoming and so helpful, always willing to stand and talk to you and answer any questions. And this year the outside has a stunning new entrance - especially seeing it at night it really catches the eye. This year there was another new bear to get to know - Tasha - a little cutie. But it was sad that dear Honey had passed on due to old age - she was a much loved bear. She has been laid to rest near the carpark with lovely tributes. It is good to know that the bears are so cared for and loved even when they have passed. I will certainly be going back next year and will look forward to it. And in the meantime I am so glad to be a volunteer, which I have done since 2011.

5

Patie M. General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/21/2016

This is a fabulous educational experience. I hope many more people can visit and learn about the bears.

5

SmittenbyBears Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/20/2016

I have been volunteering for three+ years with this remarkable organization that strives to replace misconceptions with facts about the true nature of black bears. I love visiting the Ely, MN Center, a truly one-of-a-kind facility. It's a treat to see the four magnificent ambassador bears that help people learn from the bears themselves. I have learned so much from the wealth of interesting exhibits, articles, photos and videos and the engaging staff that provides wonderful care for Ted, Lucky, Holly and Tasha. Even at home, I am able to visit virtually every day through the Center's live webcams and chats. The North American Bear Center, by carrying out its mission to advance the survival of bears worldwide, is helping people learn to co-exist peacefully with black bears and I am grateful to be part of that!

3

1shadow1 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/20/2016

Great place to learn more about Bears and other wildlife. I truly enjoy visiting the North American Bear Center. The staff and volunteers are so friendly and helpful. The NABC is a very educational place and the resident bears are a delight to observe. Great place and I highly recommend that you include a stop here during any visit to Ely.

5

Sheryl K. Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/20/2016

My daughter and I had the most enjoy able time visiting the North American Bear Center in Ely a few yrs back for there Lily Pad Picnic! A great place to take the family and u get to see Ted, Lucky, Holly, and now Tasha! Please make a trip there it is beautiful and the people are so bear friendly!

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5

Volunteer

Rating: 5

01/19/2014

The bear center is the place to be to learn all about the center bears and the research bears!! Made my trip there last yr and I loved every minute of it! Every one should go in there life time! You will not want to leave. Very nice volunteers that work there and there is so much more to learn..Please mark this down on your list of things to do!!

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2

Terri86 Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/20/2016

In the four years that I have volunteered for the North American Bear Center, I have witnessed unwavering dedication to bears. Not only has the NABC added extensively to its physical facilities, but all involved work tirelessly to involve the worldwide public in observing and learning about bears through live webcams and numerous outreach resources including speakers and materials for educators and groups. Drawing on the researchers' many decades of data, as well as their own experience, staff members are bursting with knowledge about these fascinating creatures and are just bursting with excitement about sharing it.

1

Zephyrx General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/20/2016

The North American Bear Center is one of the best attractions in Ely, MN. Visitors learn about black bears and also learn about all species of wildlife in the north woods eco system.

It can be visited for an hour or for an entire day, based on the amount of information you want to take in from the multiple displays, movies, or the "behinds the scene" tour, to see the live bears up close.

Each year there is something new and different. This is a powerful way to learn about all north woods wildlife species and is a summer adventure I never miss. ELy is very fortunate to have the North American Bear Center to educate the public about behavioral patterns of the Black Bears.

5

Mike196 Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/20/2016

I am a volunteer moderator who moderates chat on the live cameras of the NABC website. I came across NABC in 2010 watching a bear in the wild give birth in her den on camera. I was fascinated with bears before so that was wonderful seeing the birth and growth of a cub. Then I learned that the biologist and researcher, Doctor lynn Rogers, who placed that camera in the den also walked up to awake wild free bears in the forest and placed tracking collars around their necks. That seemed impossible and frightening to me. I had to find out more . i found out that much of what I "knew" about black bears was wrong. NABC is dedicated to educating people about what the real nature and tendencies of black bears (and to a lesser degree other bear species) in the hopes that truthful researched and published scientific facts about bears will help us to coexist with them to the greatest extent possible. Replacing myth and irrational fears with facts is seldom a bad thing so I volunteered to help in my small way. Ive had almost entirely good experiences from this and I am better off in the ways that are easier to feel than to describe or put numbers to from interacting with the wonderful people involved with "our" bears.

3

Crosswind Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/20/2016

The North American Bear Center is a wonderful organization focusing it's efforts at educating the public about black bears and other wildlife native to northern Minnesota. The facilities are beautiful and the staff outstanding. I'm proud to be a volunteer.

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6

General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/24/2013

I have been to the NABC several times in the past year and will happily go back again and again. The displays are educational and easy to understand. Knowledgeable and friendly staff and volunteers are available to explain everything. It's a family friendly place with displays and interactive areas just for kids. Honey, Ted and Lucky, the resident bears, provide an up close look at an animal that most people will never see in the wild. I'm looking forward to the opening of the educational center next spring.

2

Writer General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/20/2016

It is a must see educational experience from the driveway to the entrance of the Bear center WOW then you step in and it takes your breath away !! through out the Bear center nothing but excitement and it changes your thoughts about Black Bears and sends you in a direction you never expected to get to. behind the scene tours are no charge and cap off a great experience !!

3

2bears Donor

Rating: 5

10/20/2016

My experience with this non profit has been exceptionally positive. The education provided to visitors to the NABC is well detailed, informative, and interesting. The staff at all levels are helpful and professional.

3

mjfourn Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/20/2016

I have been affiliated with the North American Bear Center as a volunteer since 2010 when I was enticed into watching a live den cam of a female bear (Lily) giving birth to a singleton cub (Hope). It was love at first sight as I learned more and more about the nature of these intelligent, shy creatures. I watched with pride as the Center grew from one man's dream (Lynn Rogers, Ph.D) to a national treasure of black bear education and advocacy. The NABC is currently home to four ambassador bears enjoying nature in a 2-acre habitat and has expanded to include not only bear exhibits, but also those depicting Northwoods flora and fauna in all seasons. It has developed highly successful international volunteer and internship programs and has created outstanding educational programs for both adults and children. It is an honor to be associated with this highly acclaimed, world class educational center that is meeting its mission of replacing myths about black bears with facts.

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1

Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/17/2014

I have been a remote volunteer (and donor) for four years and have been enriched by all I have learned along the way. Although I live out of state, I am dedicated to the mission of the North American Bear Center - to replace misconceptions about black bears with facts. I have visited the Center numerous times and am continually impressed and educated by the range of exhibits and programs - from the Cub Room for children to nature trails for all, behind the scenes photo tours, multi-media exhibits, life-size mounts, and a vast array of educational displays.

And, of course, a chance to view ambassador bears Ted, Lucky, Honey, and Holly as they live their bear lives in a beautiful 2-acre enclosure including waterfalls and pond.

One day is simply not enough.

Initially founded in 2007 as bear biologist Dr. Lynn Rogers' lifelong passion, the NABC is a forward-thinking organization. It has grown to create programs that reach beyond its walls - traveling black boxes for educators; daily podcasts on the activities of the ambassador bears in residence; live Web cam from the enclosure; a family-friendly Web chat room where fans become friends; international speakers bureau and volunteer program; nightly updates by Dr. Rogers himself, and so much more.

Run to Ely to visit the North American Bear Center, or at the very least, tune in!

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2

LoriC. General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

08/15/2014

Absolutely wonderful place to visit if you want to learn more about bears, their habitat and behaviors. Also a lot of information regarding other wildlife who share the Northwoods. I have been to the NABC at least 4 times and never get tired of learning....you can't help but learn when you go there! the videos are the best.....to see actual bear behavior in the wild is priceless. And I will DEFINTELY be going back....there's always more to learn!

2

dbialek General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

08/04/2014

I have made the North American Bear Center a destination vacation for three years. The opportunity to see the ambassador bears in a setting that mimics the wild habitat as much as possible for animals in captivity, has been awe-inspiring. Learning about wild bear behavior has made me better equipped to co-exist with the animals in my rural home. You can't help but become engaged by the bears and can't help but learn something in the highly entertaining yet education-centric environment. And the web-cams make it possible to "return" to the NABC any time I want.

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2

Donor

Rating: 5

10/18/2013

Kindle your relationship with Nature and the beauty of Minnesota's Northwoods, with a visit to the North American Bear Center. Young & old alike are enthralled by the beauty of the exhibits and education about the region and its flora and fauna is achieved, almost by osmosis! I have spend several days there, and haven't absorbed everything yet. So, I'll be going back as often as I can to see the live bears & the facts about wild animals including bears and how we humans can be better neighbors to them.

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2

Barb24 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

08/04/2014

I have been to the North American Bear Center numerous times. I HIGHLY recommend it to everyone, including families with children. If anyone wants to hear the truth about black bears, this is the place to go. There are many display's and articles about black bears. There are also 4 resident black bears that live there that cannot be released back into the wild for numerous reasons. Please give yourself at least 2 hours to see everything. I assure you, you will not be disappointed.

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3

General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/18/2013

Wonderful place to learn the truth about black bears.

1

amy_lulani Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/04/2014

The NABC represents an entity that has truly made a difference in the world of nature and bears in particular. It is a place of learning, a people-oriented visiting area to see bears in a large living environment where one may see bears as they live in a totally safe place. It is not 'the wild'; it is as close as anyone can observe from a safe place. Their organization is admirable. During the time I volunteered, we viewed instruction videos, it was all so easy and doable; they have first class people working there, several who have applied their already honed skills in their previous careers, to this organization. They are all passionate and their mission is clear. I support this organization wholly in passing on all that I've learned wherever I can; as well as in the form of donations. I also support Doc Rogers' work, inspite of the 'forces' that have targeted his research, which interestingly strengthened the thought that bears are not those vicious predators that 'hunters' have made them out to be. The education and outreach programs have been superly run, and the school children who were lucky enough to see the den cams with mothers and their newborn cubs, will have a special memory and hopefully be inspired to continue the worthy mission of more bear education.

3

jun.clark Client Served

Rating: 5

08/03/2014

I had to consider *MY ROLE* because I have, in fact, never been to the NABC. Yet, I visit the website daily and have since 2010 when Lily the wild black bear was in labor in a den in the woods of Northern Minnesota, I was hooked. A thirst for knowledge of not only black bears, but nature, in general. Dr Lynn Rogers and Sue Mansfield has never failed to amaze me. The recent addition of little Holly as indeed been a blessing. The NABC has served to educate people throughout the entire world and has developed programs to be implemented in schools to replace misconceptions that have been ingrained in peoples minds for years about black bears with current scientific research. The NABC is on my bucket list! My experiences listed below signified by *checks* are my visits by internet and heart. :)

2

Suzie Saliga Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/01/2014

This is a wonderful place for both children and adults to learn about bears. I've been to the NABC every 4 years and will continue to return. It's a long drive for us, but well worth it. The displays are fantastic and they are now adding another addition to the NABC...a large northwoods ecology exhibit.

The 4 ambassador bears are free to roam on 2.5 wooded acres with natural food to forage on and many trees to climb. There is a beautiful pond for them with a bridge and 3 waterfalls. It's really fun to watch the bears from an outdoor balcony or from the expansive indoor viewing window. I can't say enough about how I enjoy watching the bears interact.

I've been a volunteer den watcher for 4 years and have learned so much about mother and cub behavior. Each mother has her own individual way of caring for her cubs. I feel very appreciated for the work I do. I also volunteer on Lily the Black Bear Facebook page for the Bear Facts and Fun group adding educational information in a creative format. As humans continue to encroach on black bear territory, we need to understand these beautiful gentle creatures. The more we learn, the more we can peacefully coexist. The NABC is a great place to learn and have fun at the same time.

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3

Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/28/2013

I learned about the North American Bear Center when the live birth of a cub named "Hope" was broadcast on the internet. Since then getting to the NABC was on my bucket list. Even though it's about an 8 hour drive from here, my husband and I have been to the North American Bear Center twice and it's been an enriching experience with so much to see and learn. You can easily spend a day browsing through the photo gallery, watching bears through a large viewing window, and watching the excellent videos. There is also an exhibit area for kids. With humans encroaching into bear territory, the center educates people about how to coexist in harmony with black bears and highlights the work of the black bear researchers. I highly recommend taking a trip there.

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2

Kerry M. General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

08/01/2014

I have visited the NABC the past five years, and hope to continue every year ~ it is such a grand place to learn, meet wonderful people who work there, see the resident bears, and just walk around watching videos and looking at pictures. They have a fantastic enrichment program and the staff are incredibly dedicated and helpful. There is so much to learn from visiting the center, you will want to come back for more. The Hope Learning Center is coming along nicely and it, too, will have vital information about the true nature of black bears and their lives. It's a magical experience...

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5

Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/19/2013

The North American Bear Center in Ely Minnesota has become one of my most favorite places to go every year. The Center is packed with information from videos to books to pictures - and the three bears that reside there are visible from outside viewing to a huge window inside the Center. There are daily gatherings, teachings, exhibits and more ~ a children's section and new Hope Learning Center soon to open. One could spend a day there and not see it all! The gift shop has something for everybody - at great prices. It has provided thousands of visitors a chance to truly understand the Black Bear and how to co-exist with them. The staff at the NABC consists of loyal, hardworking and knowledgeable employees and volunteers who make it their mission to give each and every visitor a warm welcome and a reason to return. There is something for everyone - regardless of age - to learn and to remember with fondness. It is a magical experience, for sure.

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1

Maureen_S Volunteer

Rating: 5

07/31/2014

I have been a den watcher since the winter of 2012. Seeing how mother bears take care of and interact with their infant cubs has been an invaluable experience. If not for the work NABC is doing I would still think black bears are vicious, people-eating beasts. But seeing how tender and loving momma bears are with their babies has gone a long way towards dispelling my previous notions about black bears. I would not change the experience I've had working as a den watcher for the world.

1

Lori110 Volunteer

Rating: 5

07/31/2014

This is my third year of volunteering for the North American Bear Center and I plan to continue! What a wonderful place! Everyone is friendly and informative. They are dedicated to educating the public about the North American Black Bear and coexisting with them. Dr. Lynn Rogers and Sue Mansfield do amazing work..... Love them!

5

Mary66 Volunteer

Rating: 5

01/18/2014

As soon as you walk in the doors to the NABC, you will see many smiling faces eager to answer any questions, and to guide you through the many exhibits that are at the center. These folks are eager to educate all visitors and not just information on the black bear, but a wide variety of creatures as well, polar bears, wolves etc. You will not regret your visit to the NABC!

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18

Volunteer

Rating: 5

05/05/2012

The North American Bear Center has a wealth of information, but we have so much more to learn. Even Dr. Rogers will tell you after over 44 years of research, he does not know everything about black bears. A visit to the NABC in Ely MN will be well worth your time. Please support the new Education Building. Every little bit helps.

4

Diane90 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

01/18/2014

I have followed the work of Dr Rogers and Sue Mansfield of the NABC and the WRI in Ely, MN. I have to say they have changed my entire view of the North American Black Bear. Learning about how they live, what causes them to react to many things, and how to deal with being around a black bear, is so great to know. I do not fear them, but I respect them as Dr. Rogers says, he teaches how to co-exist , yet in the realm of things he teaches how to hunt as well in a way that is most humane. Wonderful place to see, wonderful place to learn.

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3

Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/18/2013

I have volunteered for years for this wonderful organization, I have learned so much, and help to educate people on the importance of co existing with our wildlife, in this case Black Bears. I respect the work and dedication, Dr Rogers and Sue Mansfield have done. The hours of work, and more than 250 volunteers make this a wonderful place to visit and learn.

3 Michele21

Michele21 Volunteer

Rating: 5

01/18/2014

As a volunteer I am so looking forward to my visit to the NABC in 2014. I can't wait to see the resident bears,Honey,Lucky,and Ted. The addition of Holly Bear in December is so exciting,and I can't wait to see how she reacts to her new "friends". I have been following the research of Dr. Lynn Rogers,and Sue Mansfield for four years now,and have learned so much about the North American Black Bear through their education,and webcams,and will continue to support them 100%.

6

Shannon56 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

01/18/2014

This is a wonderful place to take you family for a visit a learn all about the black bear .

Previous Stories
4

Donor

Rating: 5

10/18/2013

I have been watching the Ted, Honey and Lucky now for 5 years from the pond chat at NABC , This is a wonder place to learn about the black bears, and they also have a wonderful gift shop. ..

SuesanT General Member of the Public

Rating: 1

01/12/2014

Under new management, very poor experience! We waited for over an hour to see a bear only to eventually find out they were locked up away from visitors view. Walking around the few exhibits we had questions but no one there could answer them. $38.00 for 4 of us, definitely not worth the money.

JudgeGrizz General Member of the Public

Rating: 1

01/09/2014

In 2013, The bears are now locked up in small cages all day long. But when I visited in 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012 and all 3 bears were visible if you stayed for more than an hour. The bears now look depressed and angry . Why ?
The new staff does not appear to know how to run the place. The have scripted answers for your questions, and it feels like a museum. They call it a museum now, and ignore the needs of the resident bears.

Review from Guidestar

2

mdw20 Donor

Rating: 3

01/03/2014

I rate them a 3-1/2. Well first off, I rarely rate anything with the "highest" or the "lowest". To make it to this list it shows me that the organization has worked hard, but there is always room for improvement. If someone gives them a "1" it shows me that it is a disgruntled employee (past or present) or unfortunately a visitor that talked to an employee that day that probably shouldn't be working there. And if there is a "5" rating I question that because there is "always" room for improvement and I wouldn't want to close the door by the "5". All corporations have these problems.
I visited in September 2011 and found they were going through "growing" pains and employee changes. However, the bears were well taken care of and the employees I encountered were polite and professional, even though it was an emotional day for them with "Hope".
Now with the new cub "Holly" they will face even more challenges and people that won't agree with them. However, I believe their number "1" focus is the bears and they are trying to improve their life and surrounding forest. It is important for people to realize these are wild animals that are not able to return to the wild because of humans. We must remember they are not pets and try and give them a surrounding they might have had in the wild. Takes time and patience. Let the professionals do that and outsiders can learn from it.
They do need help on their live "chat" pages. Unfortunately it is difficult for the moderators to determine who is actually interested in learning about the bears or trying to create an unstable chat room.

3

Love4thebears Donor

Rating: 5

12/26/2013

So exciting for the educational bldg. and Holly the bear cub this year! Everyone will enjoy it!
Susan999 was dissatisfied with the viewing arrangements on her trip there this month and gave a 1 star. I hope we all can talk her into coming back again in the summer. The bears will be out and enjoying the pond and land.
The antics of the new cub will be priceless! Maybe the Bear Center can give Susan999 a discount.
I guarantee she will have a better experience.
I have learned so much about bears in the past couple years. Many more years of learning to come!

4

BearilynBunroe Client Served

Rating: 5

12/24/2013

I really enjoyed the Bear Center. The live bears do come out of their cages and walk around a beautiful natural setting. If you are elsewhere in the Center, the loudspeaker announces when a bear is out so you don't miss it. The day I went, they were not out the entire day but for several hours. You can take photos of them from an outdoor bridge as well as watch them through a large indoor window with seating.

However, this place is about much more than just going to see live bears, and the occasional talk about them by a researcher. There are many exhibits on bear behavior, including lots of videos of bears in the wild (including footage of bears in their dens via "den cams") and other materials developed by the researchers such as recordings of sounds that bears make that can be played by pressing buttons. I also enjoyed a large exhibit on how bears are portrayed with a "fierce" image in magazines and movies, when in reality black bears just aren't that fierce. Lots of great bear photographs taken by the researchers too. For children, there is a whole children's room to teach about bears through touching things and other kid-friendly exhibits. There are some very large taxidermed animals such as a moose in addition to bears.

The NABC is one way that the Wildlife Research Institute (the research arm of the Center that studies bears and reports on the findings) educates the public. I already knew a lot about the WRI from social media, but while at the Bear Center I also had a chance to see a very nice documentary on its work with bears, which plays in the movie theater continuously. I was also privileged to take one of the classes offered by WRI researchers and learn even more about bears. This organization is the only one I know that is actively reaching out to the public about bears and getting them interested and involved.

Visit the NABC and you will probably learn some very cool things about bears. This is not simply a "bear zoo" where you take your kids to look at the bears, it's more on the level of the Smithsonian or a similar educational institution, so come prepared to learn! There are also many other ways to get information about bears from the NABC and WRI, including website updates about bears being followed by the researchers, e-mails, and social media pages. I have loved the opportunity to challenge my beliefs about bears and learn more about these wonderful creatures!

2

Doggiemom Donor

Rating: 5

11/14/2013

The North American Bear Center and the Wildlife Research Institute have studied the black bears of the Minnesota north woods for 40 years. Their innovative approach to working with bears without tranquilizers or invasive means has allowed them to see bears in their natural habitat and in their relationships with other bears and their own cubs. The den cams allowed, for the first time, researchers and the world to rejoice in the birth of Hope on camera. She was later murdered by a human predator. The Hope Learning Center is in her honor. This is an OUTSTANDING organization that is truly a Great Non profit and deserves the support of all who enjoy wildlife.

6

Cyndi4 Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/31/2013

The den cams, websites online updates, emails, and of course the wonderful NABC building itself give so many opportunities to learn about black bears. Since the age of 3 I've loved bears. This wonderful non-profit organization has provided so many learning opportunities. Through Dr. Rogers' and Sue Manfields research many myths have been unraveled about bears partically the ones portraying Black Bears in a negative light. Through their education we can co-exist with these magnificent animals. I've had the opportunity to not only volunteer as a Den cam monitor but to also attend Dr. Rogers' Black Bear Field Study program. The learning experiences that I have had are amazing.

3

Paula32 Donor

Rating: 5

10/31/2013

This organization opened my eyes to the wonderful world of black bears. I had always respected them, but NABC has educated my family and me about how the intelligent and peaceful bears are. This research group is absolutely wonderful and I have never been associated with such a highly respected organization. I am very thankful for all the wonderful work they & I know God is blessing them.

2

mobr Donor

Rating: 5

10/30/2013

The North American Bear Center is great non-profit providing valuable information to learn how to co-exist with these beautiful bears. I have learned more about black bears from NABC than anywhere else. The three bears at the center are loved and well cared for by a dedicated staff. I would recommend anyone who has an interest in wildlife and ecology to visit the center or their web page at www.bear.org

4

catsk9s Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/29/2013

This is the most amazing animal research group. They have done so much to educate the public as to the real personalities of the North American black bear and showing us that they are gentle, shy creatures. I am a 6th grade teacher in So. Calif. The work of the NABC/WRI has been a mainstay in my science curriculum because of the real life/real time information my students have learned. I still have students from the first year the den webcams were shown (Lily and the birth of Hope) who contact me each year to tell me they too are still learning and following the bears. My students all feel they are part of the research as we all learn together. I can't say enough about Dr Rogers, Sue Mansfield and the other people with the NABC. Outstanding biologists as well as very ethical people.

3

Emma12 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/29/2013

I've learned so many things about the black bear from the North American Bear Center. This organization has taught me and countless others, how and where black bear den, what happens in the den during birth, family interactions, what bears eat & how they survive in a bad food year, how bears are not the ferocious animal that some make them out to be, how mother bears share their territory with their cubs & possibly the most valuable information they provide is, the importance of people learning to coexist with bears and how this is possible. This is just a smidgen of the information learned from the North American Bear Center. The information about black bears, that they provide is priceless. They make learning fun and interesting and I recommend them to every one I know.

2

julesanne50 Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/28/2013

Have had an interest in bears for many years, found the website of the North American Bear Centre on line, have learned more about bears on there than anywhere, in fact I found it so appealing I travelled from the UK just to visit the bear centre , you will not be disappointed! And of course they have the 3 resident Black Bears, Ted, Honey and Lucky, I urge anyone who wants to learn about bears to visit the Bear centre , will be going back again soon !

3

sk8bear Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/28/2013

I have always been drawn to bears- not sure why but Smokey the Bear was my favorite story book as a young child. I had always heard how dangerous bears were but i loved them just the same. Then I found the NABC and started learning what bears were really about and saw and learned from Honey, Ted and Lucky firsthand how intelligent yet timid a bear could be. Watching the bears work with enrichment toys proved how smart and curious bears are. The staff and volunteers at NABC is one of the most dedicated group of workers I have ever had the pleasure to see in action and be a very small part of. I wish i lived close enough and was wealthy enough to help them more than i can right now. For now I can do my online volunteering and spread the word about this wonderful organization and to teach others what they have taught me- some of it taught by the people of the NABC and some taught by the bears.

3

Elaine V. Donor

Rating: 5

10/28/2013

The North American Bear Center is a wonderful place. I've spent hours there watching videos of the wild bears living their lives. The exhibits are beautifully done and very informative. Love the one that shows all the different kinds of seeds found in a bear's scat. When you want to take a break from the exhibits you can spend time looking at the beautiful pond, maybe one of the resident bears will come by. The NABC does so much to educate people about black bears.

3

Leslie46 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/28/2013

The NABC is a great nonprofit. I am a teacher in CA and thanks to Dr. Rogers, Sue Mansfield and all at the NABC our class has followed the collared black bears for 2 years. NABC gives my "city" students the opportunity to step inside the Northwoods of MN and enjoy their science lessons following the black bears.

3

volunteer169 Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/28/2013

Excellent informative displays and videos from bears living in the wild. Highly educational facility. Staff very helpful and engaging. Live den cams are a must to see and experience. I didn't realize that hibernating bears do not sleep the whole time as we were told. Mother bears actually take care of their cubs many hours a day, in between taking naps.

5

ourhope Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/24/2013

I have been a volunteer for the NABC for 2.5 years and have visited the Center on two occasions in the last three years. The reason I am so fond and supportive of the center is due to their sense of the need for research in the Minnesota northland and an equivalent need for a better understanding of the black bears we have come to know. I have found Dr. Lynn Rogers to be an ecological thinker and a guide to a modern environmental consciousness. All the staff at the center promote coexistence as well as cohesiveness in the world regardless of species. It is difficult to express in words the sense of knowlege as well as tranquility that the work of the center brings to those who visit and understand the work done. Additionally, those connected with the center stimulate an excitement about learning in visitors of all ages and locations in the world. There is such value that their work brings; a sense of fairness and ethics sorely needed our world today.

4

muutmuut Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/23/2013

Excellent displays, information, video, current information on bears. Live bears help you learn behavior, interactions, and food preferences. The Center teaches with audio, visual, and sensory methods to accommodate our individual ways of learning and all ages. The wonderful children's room contains toys, pelts, books. microscopes, a children's den. Learn from the bear food garden outside the museum. Walk on trails to learn plants and get a feel of the north woods. Hoping to open next summer is an ecology addition that tells about other creatures and plants in the world of the bear. This addition will have an interactive learning center.

FreeLily General Member of the Public

Rating: 1

10/23/2013

This "charity" preys on the lonely and vulnerable by sharing cutesy bedtime stories in their nightly update. They are shameless in their solicitation of funds, even though the principal owns over $1,000,000 of land in the Ely area. They are masters of manipulation.

6

Mary161 Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/22/2013

The North American Bear Center in Ely, MN is a state of the art educational setting to learn the truth about the American Black Bear. There are over 60 video displays, full size bear mounts, and three living black bears who call NABC home. Schools bring students to the Center for hands on learning. A world wide audience watches live cameras year round that show the three bears roaming their 2.5 acre enclosed forested area. Live cams in dens during hibernation show that bears definitely are not asleep all winter long. The NABC has become a destination place at "the end of the road" in Ely, MN. In 2014 the Hope Education Building will be opening, along with the Northwoods Exhibit of animals, plants, and the sounds of the north woods that the black bears would come in contact with in the wild.

Previous Stories
1

Volunteer

Rating: 5

02/24/2013

I am a volunteer with the North American Bear Center in Ely, MN. Like many, I found them with the den cam placed in Lily the Black Bear's den in 2010. I used the den cam and the daily research Updates in a class of middle school students who did not enjoy anything to do with reading. We read about Hope each morning. Through that connection I made my first trip to Ely and met the staff of NABC and volunteered for the Educational Outreach Program. Teachers and educators from around the country developed curriculum, meeting Minnesota Graduation Standards, that can be taught by educators from preschool - high school levels. This year I was able to take part in the Bear Keeper course so had direct contact with the bears, staff, and most importantly, visitors from around the world who came to Ely to learn about the bears. I support the NABC and love to share what I have learned about black bears.

7

deemolean Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/22/2013

The NABC provides so many fun and educational ways to learn about bears. The web site and Center is filled with information about primarily black bears but also brown bears and polar bears. The website has a webcam and chat line focusing on the Center's three resident bears, Ted, Lucky and Honey. The bears have 2 1/2 wooded acres that can be observed from the deck at the Center. The Center is filled with videos, film, photography, print information, taxidermy of bears and a woodland trail. Opening soon is an Ecology exhibit.

6

Deborah P. Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/22/2013

The North American Bear Center provides so much information and research through their bear center and website, that I have learned so much about Black Bears that I would have never learned anywhere else. I was fortunate enough to have witnessed Jewel give birth to Fern and Herbie 2 years ago and it sparked my interest so much that I am now a volunteer.
Thank you,
Deborah J Macklin

5

Judy92 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/21/2013

A wonderful, educational organization which has taught thousands about the true nature of Black Bears.

4

Judy91 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/21/2013

I started watching the den cam when Jewel gave birth to Herbie and Fern. This web site has taught me so much about the Black Bear's behavior. There are so many myths out there about these beautiful animals. Dr. Rogers and his research staff are so full of information. I wish these cams had been around when I was in school. Thank you Dr. Rogers.

3

lrnewman Donor

Rating: 5

10/21/2013

I have learned so much about the North American Black Bear because of this organization. education and entertainment and now I have a deep understanding and incredible love for this majestic and often misunderstood animals.

4

Margaret29 Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/20/2013

I live in New Zealand, where there are no bears, and discovered the NABC through watching the live dencams. My interest in bears grew and I travelled to Ely to do a bear study course and visit the NABC, which certainly didn't disappoint !! Not only is it an excellent center for education (as a teacher I would love to be able to take children to there) but there are also 3 resident bears who just "do what bears do," and are absolutely fascinating to watch. Their natural habitat and freedom allows them to demonstrate the true nature of black bears and the respect with which the staff hold the bears is wonderful to see.
The NABC also has an authentic welcoming environment, which is not always a "given" in wildlife centers. The displays are amazing and a lot to take in (especially when there is bear activity outside) and the staff and volunteers are friendly, informed and are ready to answer all the questions about black bears (and other wildlife) that you can ask! Because I live so far away, I have also been very appreciative of their excellent mail order service from the shop...they just can't do enough to help!
I can't wait to go back to Ely, sometime in the future. And the NABC will be my first port of call when I do!! I look forward to seeing the new Hope Learning Center and other new additions... and of course, the bears!!!

Previous Stories
2

General Member of the Public

Rating: 4

02/16/2013

Rarely in adult life do you get opportunities to learn about and experience life in a way that enhances -indeed changes- your own view of the natural world. Having watched the wonderful work of Dr Lynn Rogers and Sue Mansfield from afar ( N.Z.) via the Internet, I was privileged last year to do their Bear-study course and while there, to visit the NABC. Nothing I can say in these few words will adequately describe how wonderful an experience it was. Professionally, these people, and those who work and volunteer at the NABC, are at the very top of their game, and I suspect this is due not only to their passion about bears, but also their passion about people and their desire to educate and dispel the myths - harmful to both ursine and human species- that have evolved over the centuries.
Add to this excellence a whole lot if fun and humour and you will start to get a picture of the NABC /WRI. I simply can't wait to go again!

6

HelenA29 Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/19/2013

I first came across the NABC after watching My Family & Me on the BBC. As a result I started following the adventures of Ted E, Honey & Lucky on live cams & pond chat, which led me to volunteer as a den watcher. My first year was the winter Lucky & Ted shared a den, a fabulous introduction to the bears & their antics. Since then I have been privileged to share in the lives of these fabulous creature, even though I live in the UK. Like thousands of others I have learned about the true nature of bears from watching & recording the den cams, reading the updates and learning from the bear facts on the website & on Facebook. I am currently saving to come to Ely, to visit the NABC & see the beautiful Northwoods.

1

Dan N. Donor

Rating: 1

10/19/2013

A total waste of money. they never use the money as stated.

5

Jan Prohaska General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/19/2013

What a treasure to have the North American Bear Center right here in MN. I have learned so much valuable information from Dr. Lynn Rogers and Sue. The bears have a beautiful pond with waterfall for them to play in along with acres of land for them to run around in. There are only 3 bears there so there is plenty of room for then to roam around and play. Dr. Lynn Rogers is very well respected world wide by not only fans but other biologists. There is a beautiful new education wing being added onto the bear center so that even more education can go on there.

4

concernedaboutTEDLUCKYANDHONEY Donor

Rating: 1

10/19/2013

For 3 solid years, they highly encouraged all the followers to donate to Nutsonlie for Ted Lucky and Honey! They gladly accepted our donations, but they failed to mention that all those donations went directly to the Wildlife Research Institute instead, for feeding the wild bears in the research areas. The curator and staff at the NABC at the time, had to buy nuts at the local feed store in town with their own money! Deception at it's finest!

4

MissClarity General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/19/2013

A couple years ago I began watching when Jewel (study bear) gave birth to Fern and Herbie. The experience was awesome as I had no idea bears are so gentle, caring and loving. One thing (of many) sticks out in my mind. Jewel, a first time mother, noticed Ferns left eye was not opening. Jewel, examined the eye several times knowing something wasn't quite right. She took her long claw and gently worked on getting the eye opened. It's important to note that had the lid not opened Fern's eye would be underdeveloped to say the least. Fern began to cry while Jewel patiently tried to get the eye opened and then she would rest and then return to the task. One time when Fern cried, Jewel held her in her big paws, look at Fern then cradled and rock Fern so lovingly and vocalized to her little girl cub. Something happens inside a persons heart when they are so fortunate to see such a tender moment and be able to relate because, afterall, Fern cried and sounded just like a baby.

All this and so much more was shared with people all over the world on Live Bear Cam from the North American Bear Center known also as the Wildlife Research Institute in Ely, Minnesota under the guidance of Dr. Rogers who has been educating children in 500 classrooms and people all around the world via the Live Bear Cams and "Daily Updates". For 50+/-years Dr. Rogers and the wonderful volunteers have made it possible for all of us to grow in bear knowledge and our appreciation of the unique lives of bears.

And what is really great is that almost everyday there is a "Daily Update" on the website and emailed to us giving the world a close and personal knowledgable experience that changes our lives in special ways. YouTube has lots of videos from the WRI (Wildlife Research Institute). Our families are surely blessed.

Try it. You'll like it.

4

Allison K. Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/19/2013

I love this charity and everyone involved in it. I have learnt so much about Black Bears, and other species, and the surrounding fauna. Schoolchildren go there on excursions and are warmly welcomed, and have alot of fun while learning. Being from the UK, this is my no 1 destination to visit.

3

bocoluv General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/19/2013

I like this website. It has lots of information about black bears. I was writing a report on bears for school and got lots of information at NABC. On the bear chat, the moderators really helped with any questions I had. They make sure everyone is nice to each other on the chat. Watching the bears is my favorite part. I love watching them run around the pond and seeing them in their dens in winter. Since I started getting on this website, I have gotten lots of information and learned many cool facts about bears I would never have know. They are really organized and have very accurate information. NABC has befriended the bears they have their. I am so happy I learned about this site.

3

gsbear General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/18/2013

As a charity, you can be comfortable with how the money is spent. You are free to visit, or check on the cams or check their facebook & updates daily. They incorporate their city & community with classes for the youth & training for adults. Everyone is welcome. Any questions you may have about bears can be read with their education materials or ask a moderator in the chat room. I cannot think of a charity I feel this positive about the way the charity operates. Love the people & of course, the bears.

3

beret.amundson Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/18/2013

This is the premier facility in the world to understand and lean about North American Bears, particularly Black Bears. From the rescued Black Bears in residence, to the reading, video, pictures, and childrens center, it is not only educational, but a very fun place to visit. You will learn so much and enjoy every moment.

3

slomoe Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/18/2013

The North American Bear Center is a top shelf organization and is very well run. I have been a volunteer for four years and I wouldn't trade it for anything I've ever done. The staff at the bear center is second to none and extremely easy to work with and add to that the displays, the many video monitors, and the beautifully well kept grounds and you have a recipe for 100% success. It's truly an honor to volunteer for such a fantastic organization.

6

ComesTheDawn General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/18/2013

I've never even seen a bear in the wild. As for most people, I was taught to fear them if I ran into one in the woods. I had no knowledge of their behavior and diet, so the only conclusion I'd logically come to was my becoming a shredded lump of flesh for their lunch or dinner feast. That was the OLD me, before I stumbled upon the world of the NABC and WRI.

Dr. Lynn Rogers and his assistant, biologist Sue Mansfield, possess the X-Factor that separates them from their peers. They are visionaries who have a tireless, unrelenting passion for and dedication to the bears which is impossible to ignore. We are sucked into the saga of the lives of these beings of the Northwoods. The den cams are priceless pieces of education and entertainment that yearly introduces us to the newest members of the clan. We can see the cubs development during the first critical stages of life, and how Momma Bear coaxes them away from the den for the last time to tackle the outside world. It's emotional, dramatic and bittersweet - the stuff of real life. But, most importantly for me, I will continue to follow the bears to learn from THEM how I can be a better human.

3

MarciaBonacci Donor

Rating: 5

10/18/2013

The North Anmerican Bear Center is changing the world's view of black bears. Their passion and commitment to teaching how to co-exist through education is inspiring.

1 Princessthekitty

Princessthekitty General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/18/2013

I have been watching Ted, Honey and Lucky at the NABC via pond cam for four years, and have been reading the Researchers updates and following the den cams of the research bears in the wild since right before Lily gave birth to Hope. The education derived from the 3 bears at the Bear Center and the Research Bears in the wild was life changing. I learned how intellectual and timid and mild black bears are. Their child=rearing skills are phenomonal.
And I learned, through the 3 bears at the Center, the individual personalities and foraging habits of back bears. I was privileged to visit the NABC last year and was very impressed with all of the exhibits. And was able to get close to the bears on our photo shoot. What a great experience. The staff are so friendly and their educational talks were great. I also donate when I am able. I plan to go back to visit this Spring when the Hope Educational Center opens which will provide a great educational opportunity to students worldwide on the life of black bears.

Previous Stories
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General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

05/12/2012

I have followed the NABC and WRI since Jan 2011, watching the den cam hen Hope was born. Dr. Rogers and Sue Mansfield have and are doing a great job researching the lives of Shadow's clan and educating us on the truths about black bears and dismissing the myths. Their research is known worldwide and highly respected. I plan to visit Ely in July and visit the NABC. I have learned so much from this research. Both the NABC and WRI are doing a great job educating about black bears.

1

Maureen K. General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/18/2013

Plan to spend at least two days at the North American Bear Center in Ely, MN. The Staff and Volunteers are happy to assist you. Stay for the presentations. Meander around at your own pace. Everything you ever wanted to know about Black Bears is available on site. Books, videos, exhibits. For Adults and Children alike. Bring the whole family. And the most amazing experience of all.... observing live Black Bears in their habitat. If you aren't familiar with Ted, Honey and Lucky, go to the Facebook Page: Lily the Black Bear. You're in for a surprise, a treat. The North American Bear Center was created by Dr. Lynn Rogers, world-renowned Biologist and wild Black Bear researcher, who also specializes in field study of these amazing, beautiful creatures. Come to Ely, MN. Visit NABC. You won't forget it.

Previous Stories
2

General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

02/14/2013

Several years ago, through the technology of web cams, a website and a Facebook Page, more than a 100,000 people (and growing), worldwide, were introduced to the habitat and behaviors of Black Bears. Beyond the inaccurate media hype of terror and aggression, Dr. Lynn Rogers showed us a new reality of life in the Northwoods with these mostly gentle creatures. Through videos made by the BBC, we learned more about Black Bear families and how to co-exist with them. Education is the key. The North American Black Bear Center provides "Education Boxes" to Teachers for a nominal rental fee. The contents bring information about Black Bears right into the classroom. If you can make the trip to Ely, visit the NABC. It is similar to a Natural History Museum dedicated to these animals. Meet Ted E. Bear, Honey and Lucky, the outdoor Black Bears that live on protected ground year round. Visit the web cams on the Wildlife Research Institute website to see Lily and her two cubs born last month. Check out Jewel and her two yearlings, Herbie and Fern. And there's always the Pond Bears that live on the premises. I have learned more about Black Bears from Dr. Rogers than I have from any TV program or books. The reason behind that is Dr. Rogers, via cams and his ongoing research, let's the Bears teach us themselves. What a wonderful experience!

2

jmherzog56 Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/18/2013

I can not even begin to tell you how the NABC has changed the views of many people regarding the Black Bear. What a wonderful Center to visit. So much information and well presented. The area for the kids is wonderful. The new addition of the Hope Learning Center will be such an asset to the town of Ely, the State of Minnesota and the world.

So many visitors to the center from all over the World. I commend the staff for a great job in presenting the North American Black Bear. What a beautiful animal, misunderstood by many, but with the NABC, we are all learning the truth about these beautiful animals.

2

minisbears General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/18/2013

We as a family have visited the NABC twice....both visits were wonderful The exhibits are very educational and interesting. The theatre area for viewing the resident bears is wonderful, and the theatre area for viewing the 'BearWalker' video is superb. We enjoyed the outdoor viewing area for the bears. My family is certainly looking forward to future visits to see the progress on the new educational wing that is currently being built. The children's room is awesome...a wonderful area for young children to learn about the American Black Bear and various wildlife from the area. The various video stations showing actual bear behavior in the wild are such a great visual tool.
A special treat was the time we actually got to meet Dr. Lynn Rogers while at the NABC...thanks to him and his unique approach to studying the bears the world can learn to appreciate and co-exist with these beautiful creatures.

2

bakerykris General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/18/2013

This research of black bears has taught me and my family how to co-exist with black bears. The importance of understanding these beautiful animals and the continuing education will only benefit both bear and humans. Learning about the lives of black bears has brought better knowledge to the world and shows the importance of black bears existence and much needed protection. These research bears have changed many minds of their reputation from negative to being positive thoughts.

2

Deb Wells Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/18/2013

The North American Bear Center (NABC) is a top notch non-profit organization whose passion for what they do shines through in the outstanding quality of their work. The NABC has educated people across the world about the true behaviors of black bears & has helped to dispel many myths about this misunderstood animal. The NABC has also teamed up with teachers to develop a fabulous educational outreach program to take the things taught at the NABC into school classrooms. The materials include a curriculum map, lesson plans, interdisciplinary ideas, as well as black bear boxes to provide a “hands on” experience for the students. I am grateful that I have had the opportunity to volunteer for this organization for the past several years, as every time I am there it is an enriching experience in which I learn something new!

2

Jacki T. Donor

Rating: 5

10/18/2013

This organization conducts research and education on the real lives of black bears. This is done in a unique way through observation and a mutual respect. By having live den cams, the public has witnessed live births, nurturing, and family development not previously known. The den cams are used in many elementary schools as part of a black bear educational plan. NABC has dispelled the belief that black bears are aggressive and to be feared. NABC is also a valuable member of the Minnesota and Ely communities bringing in tourist dollars and support.

2

Juliejules Client Served

Rating: 5

10/18/2013

Having fear of Black Bears as a child on in to adulthood. I found the North American Bear Center. The education about bears here is GREAT! Not only do they teach you about bears but also about the life bears live and how to live with them.

2

Kimberly55 Donor

Rating: 5

10/18/2013

A valuable educator and teacher about the ecology of Minnesota and the black bear. Donors have formed a community that supports one another, as well as, the North American Bear Center.

3

luvbears Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/18/2013

Since I found this organization about 5 years ago I found it very valuable educational
and enjoyable on so many levels. Learning about black bear behaviors
And their lives in General has helped me learn the true nature about
these beautiful animals and lessen my fears about them. The researchers
are wonderful and compassionate. I have since become a volunteer and feel
a part of this non-profit organization and it's fun too. I feel it truly deserves
a high status as a great non-profit

4 Clarebear

Clarebear General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/18/2013

Living as a transport from the city to bear country of PA, we were petrified when we met our new neighbors .... bears! After many nuisance phone calls to our local game commission with complaints, we researched and found www.bear.org. We have learned so much about bears, their demeanor, meanings of their actions, their habitat, vocalizations, and much much more. The den cams were the most educational tool afforded to the public to view in real time. World wide viewing of the den cams is an amazing resource to learn about black bears, and the North American Bear Center is responsible for this wonderful education and opportunity for us to get to know our neighbors. We now co-exist in the beautiful bear country mountains of PA, and look forward to my third visit to Ely, MN. Thank you to the NABC for the continued education of black bears, and sharing your research studies and the den cams with us all.

1

Livelife General Member of the Public

Rating: 1

10/18/2013

Not a very good experience. The bears are in cages most of the time.

The staff were not helpful at all. Displays look dated.

I read the number one reason for the death of bears is murder, ie hunting! The way it was worded was incorrect in my opinion. Correct me if I am wrong but isn't a non-profit meant to be neutral and not be for or against ?

3

Janet79 Donor

Rating: 5

10/18/2013

The North American Bear Center and it's sister organization, The Wildlife Research Institute, are leaders in educating the public about all bears, and in particular the North American Black Bear that live around the Bear Center's headquarters in Ely, Minnesota. NABC/WRI have used cameras in hibernating bear's dens to broadcast live births over the internet. These "den cams" have reached hundreds of thousand of viewers world wide and have been broadcast to numerous classrooms throughout the United States. School children learn about black bears through packets that that the NABC provides to their teachers.
Additionally, the NABC uses Facebook to update the public daily on the activities of the bear's in it's research study. These particular research bears have GPS collars and are followed by Dr. Lynn Rogers or his associate biologist Sue Mansfield. The researchers have earned the bears' trust through non-aggressive means and they can walk with the bears to study them. They change the batteries in the bears' collars by simply offering a handful of nuts and gentle words. Many hours are spent learning about bear behavior and building a repetoire with individual bears. Not all bears will allow the researchers to walk with them, even though they may have known them since birth. It depends on bear personalities, just like humans!
The NABC and WRI websites have tons of information available to the public about all species of bears and can answer almost every question you can think of from what bears like to eat, to what they really do all winter long in their dens. The NABC has a unique center that the public can tour and see exhibits and three beautiful bears that live on-site. Ted, Honey, and Lucky will steal your heart with their antics.
This is such a great non-profit organization and I recommend you make a donation to the North American Bear Center.

3

Linda228 Donor

Rating: 5

10/18/2013

The North American Bear Center is a wonderful nonprofit organization and deserves to be recognized for their truthful knowledge about black bears. They use this knowledge to teach people all over the world about the black bears.

3

JasD Donor

Rating: 5

10/17/2013

The knowledge shared by the NABC is very important. Black bears have been misunderstood for a long time, and many have met tragic deaths due to this. This is a unique educational organization with a wealth of facts to spread worldwide. Its use of technology (live streaming video and live chat for instance) is effective in reaching people of all ages and countries. There is so much passion and dedication demonstrated daily by the volunteers and regular staff. Actually watching bears go about being bears on a daily basis is amazing.

3

sjstark Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/17/2013

The North American Bear Center (NABC) is an exceptional nonprofit organization! The organization provides accurate and very educational information about black bears and other wildlife not only at the NABC site in Ely but also through schools and social media. They have an exceptionally well-organized volunteer organization that provides a variety of volunteer opportunities - you can help out any way you want, for any amount of time, and from any location in the world and you can be assured that you will be working with other volunteers who are very enthusiastic and extremely well-informed. I can't say enough about this organization!

2

Laurie6241 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/17/2013

The NABC offers excellent educational facts about not only the Black Bear but other bear species as well. The numerous constantly playing video clips of the various aspects of bear behavior have opened my perception of what bears really do - and that they actually like to play and are intriguing to watch! The three resident bears - Honey, Ted and Lucky - are in a very natural and wild environment. When the staff interact with them for the bear enrichment, it's done in a way that the bears are not 'showing off' as if in a circus, but to show how they would react to the item if found in the wild. There is SO much information offered that I find I learn something new each time I'm there, and there are constant upgrades/improvements each time as well. I see they now have a 'pet relief' area which is a nice amenity when traveling with pets, and the Hope Learning Center will be completed soon with more exhibits and state of the art learning tools - very anxious to see it all put together!!! I am a member, will continue to give my support because I believe there is still a lot we don't know about bears and the NABC provides that newly found information. I encourage friends and family to check it out!

3

ChristineW General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/17/2013

I am one of the North American Bear Center's biggest fans. They have so many beautiful, educational exhibits there. They have a children's room where the kids can learn so much about bears. Lynn Roger's research is so very important to teach the world to co exist with black bears. I highly recommend to anyone to make a visit there....Well worth the trip!!!

2

cubbiesRcute Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/17/2013

My husband and i have spent over 35 years canoeing in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. While we have both desired and feared an opportunity to see a black bear in the wild we have yet to come across one.

We happened to be in Ely during the opening of the NABC. The information available then challenged all our beliefs(fears) about black bears. The Center has grown incredibly and now, with the den cams, the many videos, the expanded displays and the huge amount of research-backed educational information available to anyone who walks thru the doors our desire to be able to observe a black bear - preferably a mother with cubs - in the wild has increased!

In the meantime, our frequent visits to Ely include stops at the NABC to visit and learn more from the friendly staff and the volunteer Bear Educators. We don't miss a chance to watch, learn and smile at the antics and behaviors of Ted, Lucky and Honey. These bears seem to become more entertaining each visit.

Dr. Lynn Rogers and Sue Mansfield have provided the world with such a large and growing base of information . The not-yet-completed Hope Education Center will be a fantastic place for educators and learners alike. i can hardly wait to see it filled with groups of curious children and adults!

Previous Stories
14

Volunteer

Rating: 5

05/10/2012

The amount of bear related education at the NABC is amazing! All my life i had been under the misconceptions that many people learned about black bears. I had always been afraid. Now based on the scientific research available at the NABC and online thru the website, i would like nothing better than to have a bear wander through my yard or campsite. The information is myth-busting! Black bear behavior has been misunderstood for so long. They are not the vicious, aggressive creatures portrayed on sports magazines. That concept arises from long-held fears, not from documented facts. The bear center is a wonderful place with a growing education outreach program!

3

sarahssophia Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/17/2013

I have known of Lynn Roger's work over the past 30 years. I have always been curious of more respectful techniques of approaching the study of animals. As a Montessori teacher, our greatest gift as a guide to the children we work with is observation from knowledgeable principals and honest assessment, even when the children prove us off course in our understanding. I have watched and read his body of work over these years and have learned so much about the behavior of the NA Black Bear and the growth of his respectful approach through observation and walking with the bear community...peaceful coexistance.
The work of Sue Mansfield and the NABC continue to reveal the true behavior of this magnificent animal we live so closely with here in Minnesota.

As a teacher it opened up the eyes and hearts of the children/students I work with from preschool to Jr. High. The 5 & 6 year olds followed the den cam over the years writing stories and illustrating pictures of the bear family. They eventually wrote a play called, "Little bear takes a walk" from a 1970's story book. It was complete with Dr. Rogers calling out, "It's me bear" and much more about the life in a MN woodland. The upper elementary children worked cross level with the "bear box" exploring the videos, reading the books, writing from their own experience and discovering new research and truths. One of the greatest gifts of the NABC work is how children can practice the scientific method by choosing a topic, observing the behavior, document their observation, discuss and come to conclusions. Our whole school community participates in activities and residencies at our Land School. We have corridors that bear pass through at the LS and are developing a program of education with the help of the NABC/WRI and its amazing body of research and observations. It is not only informative but playful and enjoyable for the children to study.

Our goal is that of Lynn's...peaceful co-existence here in MN and elsewhere with the North American Black Bear beginning with education. We would have never gone so far without the NABC and Lynn/Sue's work. This is an amazing organization.

3

chpasterski General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/17/2013

I teach in the Green Bay Area Public School District and I use the Den cams as a teaching tool for students. The students absolutely love the NABC and WRI websites. There is an unbelievable amount of resources available that are fun ways to learn for students. Recently I had the opportunity to bring a couple of students to North American Bear Center. The staff there is phenomenal and the center has great exhibits. The students learned the truth about bears and about the fabulous research that is being done. I wish that every student had the opportunity to experience this wonderful place that is in Ely!

3 signcutter

signcutter Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/17/2013

I have volunteered for the North American Bear Center for about two years now. I first learned about the research of Dr. Rogers long before there was an internet or den cams! I read some of his research on bears when I was in college studying wildlife management. I was impressed with his study methods, which were so different than those used by other scientists. And, he was getting results! His methods worked better than the old tranquilize, test, and release methods, in my opinion. Plus, it was much less stressful on the animal. I have followed his research since then.
When the den cams became popular, I was able to share them with my students, who loved watching wild bears raising their young. The den cams were a hit with kids.

I think that the staff at NABC are some of the most dedicated, hard-working researchers I know. If I did not agree with their study methods, I would not be a volunteer. However, I love volunteering here and I support the research completely. I started volunteering by making a set of playing cards for the Black Bear Boxes, which are educational boxes that schools can borrow for their classrooms. I then joined as a volunteer both for the Speakers' Bureau and the Bear Facts and Fun Games group online. I write a weekly educational (and fun) short piece on bears, which is posted on the Facebook page of Lily the Black Bear.

I thoroughly enjoy volunteering for the NABC. They have a large group of very dedicated volunteers worldwide. This is an absolutely amazing and fine group to be a part of. I plan to continue volunteering for them for a long time to come.

3

lwaters12 Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/17/2013

The American Bear Center quite literally saved my sanity. Having booked a holiday from Britain to spend a month with my father, a resident of Ely, he sadly died before I arrived. Donna Rogers and the staff at the center offered me the chance to work with them for the month. For my grief stricken step-mother and I, it became a sanctuary to which I ran too every morning. I will be eternally grateful for their kindness and the extraordinary experience very few people from England ever get the chance to have. I tell everyone at the High school I work at, at any opportunity, all about the brilliant work that goes on and my office has become a shrine to three of the most beautiful creatures that I have ever had the fortune to share my time with. I am very proud of my bear educator certificate and will treasure it always. I hope to return as soon as I can to carry on as a volunteer.

2

Tracy52 Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/17/2013

I was a den watcher for a year and wanted to make the trip to Minnasota. Just to see the North American Bear Center. So I did sure glad I made the trip learned so much about the studies and how important they are. Already planning another trip can't wait well worth it.

3

HSinMN Volunteer

Rating: 5

02/14/2013

I have never been involved with a group of people more dedicated to a cause than those that work for and with the North American Bear Center. The researchers, curators, educators and service staff are amazingly devoted to their work and to educating the general public about the American Black Bear and its place in our environment. So often we forget that we humans are the ones who continue to infringe on the habitat of all species of wildlife - and it is so rare to find an organization with no motivation other than to help us all learn how to respect our environment and all of the creatures that share it. As stated on the Center's website (www.bear.org), "The mission of the non-profit North American Bear Center is to advance the long-term survival of bears worldwide by replacing misconceptions with scientific facts about bears, their role in ecosystems, and their relations with humans." It is fascinating work and I am honored to learn from those who do it and support them with my contributions.

3

mbear Volunteer

Rating: 5

02/14/2013

I am a proud supporter of the NABC/WRI and have been a volunteer for the NABC/WRI since 2010. I have learned so much about black bears and continue to learn something every day. Thank you Dr. Rogers and Sue Mansfield! My fear has changed to respect - I marvel at the interaction between bears that I have observed and learned from.

Previous Stories
14

Volunteer

Rating: 5

05/11/2012

I have volunteered at the NABC since early 2010 and have found it to be a remarkable experience. I have learned a tremendous amount about black bears and people. I am amazed at the energy and evolving educational aims/goals of the NABC and the dedication and hard work of the researchers, staff and volunteers to achieve these goals.

4 Michele C

Michele C Volunteer

Rating: 5

02/14/2013

I am a volunteer,and a proud supporter of the North American Bear Center,the researchers,the staff,and of course the resident bears Ted,Lucky,and Honey. I have learned so much about black bears,especially replacing misconceptions with scientific facts about bears, their role in ecosystems, and their relations with humans. I lean something new everyday thanks to Dr. Lynn Rogers,and Sue Mansfield. I'll be in Ely this July for the 4th annual Lily picnic and to see the new "Hope Learning Center".

4

gonzigirl Volunteer

Rating: 5

02/14/2013

The North American Bear Center has taught me so much about black bears! I TRULYleaned all the misconceptions and. I want to learn more about this fasinating creature!

5

Becky38 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

02/14/2013

The NABC have helped me become aware of the importance of co-existing with bears. And also the myth that they are furocious animals. I support them 100% and thank them for the knowledge they have shared.

4

JSSmith General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

02/14/2013

The NABC is a wonderful interactive experience for children and adults alike, and provides detailed information on black bear ecology, biology and behaviors. I've been there three years in a row and it is always a terrific learning experience!

6

Corynorhinus General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

11/30/2012

Fantastic operation on low budget. Friendly, knowledgeable staff and top quality exhibits with true bear information gleaned from first hand research not inferred from remote samples and prevailing opinion. My traditionally taught biological training was challenged and I walked away all the better for it. Please help support their critical mission. I can't think of a more dynamic organization!

12

sleepy812 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

05/11/2012

Kara asked where the money went. Its never been a secret. At first the money went towards the huge debt for the existing facilities. Even before that was fully paid off a program was started to provide support for teachers in the classroom to educate students about black bears. Currently money is being raised for a new building to further support that education. Most of the staff are unpaid volenteers and even Dr Rogers recieves only a very modest salary. Its certainly not enough for the countless hours he devotes to bears. This is a great organization that has lready accomplished a lot and will continue to accomplish much more.

9

dazzle Volunteer

Rating: 5

05/11/2012

This non-profit ranks among the unique. The leaders, researchers, work 7 da/wk and easily 12-14 hrs./da. so that others will understand the important niche the American Black Bear holds in the world of wildlife and how humans can learn to co-exist with them. There are no big salaries or performance vehicles, only hours of forest trekking, data compiling and communication. The NABC is among the finest of non-profits-a gem of integrity and "do onto others".

14

Olatz A.M. Volunteer

Rating: 5

05/11/2012

If you want to learn about bears, especially black bears, the North American Bear Center in Ely, Minnesota is the place you must visit. Exhibits, lots of information, a cub room for kids and their three residents, Ted, Honey and Lucky. Three happy bears that live in one of the most beautiful natural enclosures one can find in the world. I visited last year and this summer I will cross the ocean again from Spain to visit the NABC´s and meet its wonderful staff. Bear lovers with the mission to educate the world about the true nature of black bears.

13

Julie42 Volunteer

Rating: 5

05/11/2012

Last year i had the pleasure of visiting the N.A.B.C, It was a wonderful experience, the staff were more than helpful, so much to do and see, its not until you go there you realise how much you dont know about bears ! I learnt so much! seeing the 3 captive bears was the highlight for me, they have a wonderful natural area in which to forage like wild bears and a lovely pond too. I cant praise this organisation enough and i hope they get more visitors to learn about the wonderful Black Bear . I will be going back again this year! I live in the UK and it is worth the trip on so many levels, thank you Dr Lynn Rogers and his Biologist Sue Mansfield for giving me the chance to learn !

Review from Guidestar

6

lovesbears Volunteer

Rating: 1

05/10/2012

I found them to be inconsistent with what they tell you, always begging for money and yet the money does not seem to go for what they tell you initially. And be careful of the supporters still there for if you disagree, they name call, tell you to leave , and try to ruin you. The researchers and those involved are shrouded in secrecy and always telling volunteers not to tell anyone what you see like during hunting season when they were trying to keep hunters away and during trips to the center where you are allowed to kiss and touch the bears.

17

Kandiyohi Volunteer

Rating: 5

05/10/2012

I've been to the North American Bear Center and I fully support their mission - to educate people about black bears. Dr. Lynn Rogers, Sue Mansfield and all the staff at the Bear Center are passionate about black bears and it shows. A previous reviewer, here Kara Johanson, is a former "disgruntled" moderator on Lily the Black Bear's Facebook page, who along with a few others, were let go from their moderating duties due to their extreme power trips. People complained about them, and they were let go, to start fresh with the FB page. "Kara" also known as Jill Wheaton Lindsay, has now made it her mission to find every outlet she can to discredit Lynn Rogers' work and slander him. It's called slander and harassment Jill. If you're not careful, you just might find yourself in an embarassing situation and in a bit o' trouble. ;) Your first mistake was accidentally "outing" yourself. LOL

5

Kara J. Donor

Rating: 1

05/10/2012

If their expenses are only a third of their revenue, something is very questionable. Where does the rest of the money go and why do they keep begging for more?

Review from Guidestar

17

wickilyn Donor

Rating: 5

07/11/2010

what an awesome place learning about bears and how to live with them in peace, I used to be terribly afraid of black bears but have found out they are really gentle creayures who's lives are ruled by fear and hunger, Dr. Lynn Rogers and Sue Mansfield are truly wonderful educators, and have helped me overcome my fear of these north american treasures, we sould cherish them....... thank you

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