Well, Dr. Herrero was asked specifically about management implications from his study. He didn't seem concerned with "preservationist/conservationist" issues, but simply pointed out that it would be a good thing to remove male black bears who act aggressively and attack. As a male myself, I cringe at this sort of strategy, but biologically, it will do very little to impact bear populations. Guys, let's face it - we are expendable (on a biological population basis, that is).

The rise in bear attacks seems to be due to the increasing human populations, not one policy versus another.

Compared to the numbers of people who meet an untimely end in the wilderness from falling and drowning, bear attacks are pretty minor. Herrero points out that dogs, snakes, and bees are more of a hazard.