The USDA Forest Service will broadcast the Smokey Bear Awards live this Friday, August 9, to honor wildfire prevention heroes.
This event coincides with Smokey Bear’s 80th birthday.
The ceremony will be available on USDA and Forest Service social media channels, including Facebook and Instagram, starting at 12:30 EDT.
The Smokey Bear Award, first issued by President Eisenhower in 1957, is the highest honor for wildfire prevention efforts.
Notable recipients include Lassie, Walt Disney Productions, and the San Diego Padres.
The award recognizes individuals and organizations for their outstanding contributions to wildfire prevention.
Smokey Bear made his first appearance on a wildfire prevention poster in August 1944.
His popularity grew with the story of a black bear cub orphaned by a wildfire in New Mexico in 1950.
This cub, adopted by the Forest Service and named Smokey Bear, lived at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and became a symbol of wildfire prevention.
Smokey’s message has evolved over the years, but its core remains the same: to educate the public about preventing human-caused wildfires.
His image has been featured in various media, from illustrations to CGI, but he is always depicted with his signature Forest Ranger hat, shovel, and blue jeans.
Over the years, Smokey Bear has been honored in many ways.
His 68th birthday saw a Smokey Bear doll sent to the International Space Station.
He has also been featured on postage stamps, license plates, and in exhibits at the National Zoo.
Smokey’s presence in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and the Rose Parade highlights his ongoing influence and the continued importance of his message.
The USDA Forest Service, in collaboration with the National Association of State Foresters and the Ad Council, maintains the tradition of celebrating Smokey Bear’s milestones and contributions to wildfire prevention.
The Smokey Bear Awards recognize exceptional efforts in wildfire prevention.
There are three levels of recognition:
These awards honor individuals and organizations that demonstrate innovation, creativity, and commitment to wildfire prevention.
They are prestigious accolades given to those who have shown outstanding service in promoting wildfire safety.
The USDA Forest Service is celebrating Smokey Bear’s 80th anniversary by honoring wildfire prevention heroes with the Smokey Bear Awards.
The ceremony, scheduled for August 9, will be broadcast live on social media channels.
Smokey Bear, a symbol of wildfire prevention since 1944, has a storied history, including a live bear rescued in 1950.
The awards recognize exceptional contributions to wildfire prevention at national, regional, and local levels.
The USDA Forest Service, in partnership with the National Association of State Foresters and the Ad Council, continues to uphold this tradition, highlighting the ongoing importance of preventing human-caused wildfires.
