The Maryland Forest Service is inviting seventh-grade students across the state to participate in a new Smokey Bear poster contest celebrating the agency’s 120th anniversary.
The Fire Prevention Month contest is open to seventh-grade classrooms and homeschool groups throughout Maryland. Students are asked to create original artwork based on Smokey Bear’s classic message, “Only YOU can prevent wildfires!” The contest is designed to teach students about wildfire safety, forest conservation and protecting Maryland’s natural resources.
Each school may submit one entry, which will be judged regionally before advancing to statewide judging. Entries are due November 2, although schools are encouraged to set earlier deadlines to allow time for their own judging.
Teachers of winning students are expected to be notified between late November and mid-December. Statewide winners will receive a Smokey Bear fire danger sign for their school.
