Full Notification

The Town of Poughkeepsie Police Department advises residents of a black bear in the Arlington area of the town. The bear had been sighted near Vassar College, Arthur S. May Elementary School, the Dutchess County Rail Trail and the Ray Boulevard area. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (D.E.C.) recommends reducing food sources outside by cleaning barbeque grills after use, removing bird feeders and not leaving pet food outside. Garbage cans should be kept inside a secure area if possible and placed outside the morning of pick up rather than the night before.

Residents are urged not to approach or spook the bear. You can report bear sightings or activity to the New Paltz Office of the D.E.C. at 256-3098 or if there is an immediate emergency, contact the Town of Poughkeepsie Police Department at 485-3666 or by dialing 911.