Washington State Forester George Geissler is announcing the opening of the application window for the 2023 Smokey Bear Awards – wildfire prevention’s most prestigious national honor, reserved for people or organizations making significant strides to protect and preserve our lands and communities.

 

“The Smokey Bear Awards have recognized incredible wildfire prevention work since 1958,” Geissler said. “The prevention community has so many passionate people dedicated to fighting fire preemptively – this is our way of giving back and celebrating some of the biggest achievements around the country.”

 

Geissler chairs the Cooperative Forest Fire Prevention Committee, comprised of representatives from the USDA Forest Service, the National Association of State Foresters, and the Ad Council. The committee is responsible for managing and promoting Smokey Bear and his message of wildfire prevention, including the awards program, which has three recipient levels: the Gold Smokey Bear Award, which recognizes exceptional wildfire prevention work done on a national scale; Silver, which recognizes region-wide service; and Bronze, which recognizes statewide efforts.

 

What sort of service is considered for a Smokey Bear Award? Well, past nominations have included advertising campaigns, informational programming, training, wildfire risk assessments, volunteerism and fundraising.

 

Potential nominations can check out the award levels, eligibility requirements, application parameters and the selection process here. The submission deadline is Dec. 15.

 

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Communications Manager

360-902-1000