Ghost Grizzlies

Officially, the last grizzly bear in Colorado was killed in 1952. Yet in 1979, a hunting outfitter was mauled by a grizzly in the San Juan Mountains (he survived). Since then, there have been a few reported sightings without scientific confirmation. Nature writer and outdoorsman Petersen is convinced that grizzlies still exist in the San Juans, and he spent four years exploring areas where the bears were seen. His forays into this pristine wilderness were made on foot and on horseback. Petersen writes about the San Juan Grizzly Project, which has explored the possibility of reintroduction (strongly opposed by ranchers and hunters). He discusses the politics of wildlife management in Colorado and ponders how much wildness its citizens want. This is a sharp portrait of the conflict between people and wilderness, a fine complement to Peacock's Grizzly Years. (Aug.)