State wildlife officials reviewing bear hunting

RENO — State wildlife officials are gathering in Reno to conduct a review ordered by the Legislature before they decide whether to renew a controversial hunting season for black bears in Nevada.

A Nevada Wildlife Commission committee will receive an update from biologists about the state’s third hunting season, which ended Dec. 31.

Since 2011, 39 bears have been killed by hunters in Nevada. The annual limit has been set at 20 bears; that has never been reached. Fourteen were taken last year.

Department staffers are recommending the hunt go forward under the same rules as last year. The panel will use information gathered at its meetings Friday and Saturday to help make a formal decision, expected at the end of the month.