01/23/06 Bears in the vineyard

Raising grapes can be a harrowing experience, with weather, blights and insects to contend with. One unexpected element has been rearing its large hairy head in California's premium cab growing regions, black bears. In lieu of tiny huckleberries, wild berries or grubs, vines dripping with luscious grapes are just too hard for bears to pass up. The bear problem puts grape growers in a bit of a quandary as the wine industry has nurtured a reputation for being environmental stewards. Earlier this year Aenta Springs vineyard had four bears destroyed after they were caught munching grapes. This didn't settle well with neighbors who feel vineyard owners often profit at the expense of wildlife by planting in remote locations. The wine industry is one segment of the agriculture that has yet to feel much fall-out from animals rights groups and the endangered specie's act. Watch out you are in their sights. I'm Susan Allen and this has been Food Forethought. Source: sfgate.com/chronicle December 26