WASHINGTON, D.C.— Do you know someone who's made a vital contribution to wildfire prevention? Nominate them for a Smokey Bear Award by Dec. 31, 2024.

Since the 1950s, Smokey Bear Awards have recognized many people throughout the Forest Service and partners for their dedication and accomplishments in preventing unwanted human-caused fires. The awards program is run by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service, National Association of State Foresters and Ad Council. Together, these partners make up the Cooperative Forest Fire Prevention Committee.

Smokey Bear Awards are given to individuals, agencies, teams or organizations that have made outstanding contributions with significant program impact in the prevention of human-caused wildfires for at least two years. It is the highest national honor one can receive for wildfire prevention.  

Wildfire prevention service includes but is not limited to advertising campaigns, informational programs, training, wildfire risk assessments to prevent ignitions, committee leadership, volunteerism and fundraising. Having wildfire prevention duties as a part of one’s official job does not make a person ineligible.

More information about eligibility and criteria and the nomination process are on the National Association of State Foresters website. All nominations for the 2025 Smokey Bear Awards must be submitted using this online form by Dec. 31, 2024. Contact your regional fire prevention coordinator for assistance.

Nominations may mention creating defensible space, reducing wildfire fuels and other similar topics, however, if mitigation is the primary focus of the nominee's work, they are not eligible for a Smokey Bear Award. To honor extraordinary mitigation work, submit a nomination for a Wildfire Mitigation Award.