PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. (WOKI / WVLT) – A popular Pigeon Forge park has reopened after a reported bear sighting led officials to close the area as a precaution.
City officials announced that Wear Farm Park is once again open to the public after the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) cleared the area following an assessment.
The park was temporarily closed Saturday afternoon after a bear was reportedly seen in the area. Following the sighting, officials urged residents and visitors to avoid the park until wildlife officials could evaluate the situation.
After reviewing the area, TWRA determined the park could safely reopen.
“We appreciate TWRA’s assistance and thank our residents and visitors for their patience and cooperation as we worked to prioritize everyone’s safety,” city officials said in a statement.
No additional details about the bear sighting were released.
Black bears are commonly found throughout East Tennessee, especially in areas near the Great Smoky Mountains. Wildlife officials routinely encourage the public to keep a safe distance from bears, avoid feeding them and report any concerning wildlife activity to authorities.
Wear Farm Park is a popular recreation destination in Pigeon Forge, featuring sports fields, walking trails, playgrounds and other amenities used by both residents and visitors.
