Overview of Contest
Smokey Bear and Woodsy Owl are America’s icons for the conservation of the environment. They have helped parents and teachers inspire children to observe, explore, and care for the environment. The original Smokey Bear first appeared in 1941 and his slogan “Only You Can Prevent Wildfires” encourages personal responsibility for wildfire prevention.
Since 1971 Woodsy Owl has challenged children and their parents to “Lend a Hand, Care for the Land!” by taking an active role in caring for the land through recycling, reusing and reducing waste, planting and caring for trees, using resources wisely, and not littering.
Award Opportunities
Club Up to the club – monetary awards are encouraged
MGC State 1st Place $50.00 Gift Card (by grade)
MGC State 2nd place $25.00 Gift Card (by grade)
MGC State 3rd place MGC certificate
NGC 1st Place $50.00 Check (by grade)
NGC Overall National Recognition ceremony coordinated by the Garden Club that sponsored the submission, with presentation of certificate, trophy, and framed copy of the winning poster.
Application with Poster Deadline: January 20, 2026
Smokey Bear/Woodsy Owl Contest Chair: Cindy Eisenhart
Winning local posters, with Publication Release Form for each, and Local Chairperson’s Winning Posters Report can be mailed for receipt by January 20, 2026 to:
Cindy Eisenhart
1577 Greg Rd
Stevensville, MI 49127