Minnesota Bear Researcher Defends Methods

ST. PAUL (AP) - Minnesota bear researcher Lynn Rogers is defending his methods as he tries to win back his research permit.

Rogers testified Thursday at an administrative hearing.  Rogers says while the bears he studies may be habituated to people from feeding, the animals aren't more dangerous.

For years, Rogers has defended his methods, which include hand-feeding black bears.

The Department of Natural Resources has accused Rogers of creating a public safety risk. The agency says bears in Rogers' study area have come to see people as a food source, and that's made them more dangerous.

Last year, the DNR refused to renew Roger's research permit. Rogers challenged that decision, which led to the hearing.

An administrative law judge likely will issue her recommendation by May.