The Bridger-Teton National Forest expresses its appreciation to all who joined us at the Pinedale Ranger District office on Friday, August 9 to celebrate Smokey’s 80th birthday. We had over 130 people visit the office on Friday. Young and old alike were welcomed by Smokey himself with games and give aways throughout the day. There was hopscotch and corn hole and lots of opportunities for photos with the famous Fire Prevention Bear. Participants were given the opportunity to dress up as wildland firefighters and get their picture made with Smokey Bear.
Cupcakes and bear snacks (gummy bears and teddy grahams) were provided by the Pinedale District employees club for all those who participated throughout the day.
Winners of the Pinedale District Smokey 80th birthday poster contest were also announced on Friday. In the 0-5 year old category, Hayden Chandless (age 4) won the gold ribbon. Hayden spends her summers with her family near Fremont Lake. Lizzy Fuller, age 8, was the winner for the 6-11 age group. Lizzy was visiting family for the Sublette County Fair and submitted her drawing. And the Best of Show was awarded to Lindsey Paige of Bedford, Wyoming with a beautiful chalk drawing, “Prevent Wildfires, Enjoy the View’’ as the message.
As you drive down Main Street in Pinedale and on Highway 189 in Marbleton, you can see Smokey flags and signpost banners flying. Thanks to our partners at Friends of the Bridger-Teton for helping us get these beautiful signs funded and hung in our communities. For other news, events and information you can call 307-739-5500 or visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/btnf or follow the Bridger-Teton National Forest on Facebook @BridgerTetonNF or on X (formerly Twitter) @BridgerTetonNF.
