Outdoors & Nature Insider

Happy Birthday, Smokey Credit: United States Forest Service

65?  You are meaning to tell me that Smokey Bear has is turning 65 years old on August 9th?  Whoa, he looks pretty good for a bear that's spent decades educating folks about wildfires!

We've all seen him at some time or another -- in school and through extracurricular clubs like FFA or 4-H, at local parks -- heck, I've even seen Smokey at the mall! One thing's for sure, kids and parents both can benefit from Smokey's message about how we all can do our part to prevent wildfires.

The character "Smokey" was chosen by the United States Forest Service in 1944, appearing on illustrated posters where he spread the message about wildfire prevention and as a result has developed into a classic American icon.

Want to take part in Smokey's Big Birthday Bash on August 8th? Well, take a trip out to Savannas Preserve State Park in Port St. Lucie and "Get Your Smokey On"! It's sure to be a great family event, complete with food, games, and an opportunity to get a photo with Smokey. There's also a yard sale planned during the event, with the proceeds going to help support the Friends of the Savannas Preserve State Park. Make sure to visit the Savannas Preserve State Park website for a complete event listing. 

For more information about Smokey Bear, visit http://www.smokeybear.com/, and remember- Only You Can Prevent Wildfires!