A focus of the group is understanding not only bear populations in each region, but also each region's human traditions and cultures. To accomplish this, hosts provide a blend of lectures, field trips and immersion in local culture so each member can better appreciate the diverse challenges and opportunities faced by their colleagues. The next meeting will be held in conjunction with the International Association of Bear Research and Management meeting in October 2006 in Karuizawa Town, Nagono, Japan.

Kodiak Refuge annually supports the Brown Bear Working Group through the Service's Challenge Cost Share and Area V programs. This year's grants funded participation by Alaska Dept. of Fish & Game's Kodiak Area Biologist Larry Van Daele, who chairs the working group, and Mike Kiehn, Senior Anchorage Wildlife Inspector from the Service's Office of Law Enforcement.