This is eastern Russia. Acreage isn't the problem. These animals are being attracted to human settlements by food, what we call garbage. In all likelihood the bear population is higher than can be naturally supported due to the extra food being tossed at them by humans. Canada has just as many bears and has dealt with the problem through changes in our behavior. Problem bears are still often shot (far more humanely btw than in the OP) but attacks on humans are extremely rare.
