Smokey the Bear returns to Fairfield County Fair

Every October I look forward to two things: taking in the fall color change of our tree foliage and attending the “last and best” county fair in Ohio.

As a child I enjoyed fair week because it gave me an opportunity to spend a few brisk fall days walking around the midway, checking out the exhibits, socializing with friends and, more importantly, not being in school.

I would imagine most of those reasons hold true for today’s younger generations, but I hope that they, along with more seasoned fair goers, are still able to find an educational value in the myriad displays scattered across the fairgrounds. The Fairfield Soil and Water Conservation District will continue to have an expansive display and, as in past years, will occupy space adjacent to the OSU Extension and Farm Service Agency’s exhibits. New to this year, however, is our location.

For the upcoming installment of the Fairfield County Fair, our office will set up shop in the AAA building at the north end of the grounds, and we are excited to be sharing this space with the Budweiser Clydesdales that are making an encore visit to our fall festivities.

Our display will feature many informative publications and brochures, and entries will again be accepted the entire week for a drawing to give away a large rain barrel. Another experience that is returning this year is the appearance of Smokey the Bear. Smokey will be walking around the fairgrounds and hanging out at our booth on Oct. 15 and he will be available to interact, answer questions, and promote the U.S. Forest Service and Ohio Division of Forestry’s conservation message to all in attendance.

Smokey Bear is one of the most recognizable conservation figures in America with a recent Ad Council report finding that 95 percent of adults and over 75 percent of children recognize Smokey and his message on wildfire prevention. Smokey’s original quote focused on preventing forest fires, but was changed in recent years to reflect the need for awareness of all uncontrolled blazes in nature.

With thousands of acres in multiple western states currently aflame as you read this, it is no wonder that Smokey remains a recognizable and needed mascot after spending 70-plus years of service in the line of, ahem, fire.

So next Thursday when you’re making your way to see the famous horses, be sure to stop by our display for a handshake and selfie with this furry conservation superhero and “Remember … only YOU can prevent wildfires!”

Tommy Springer is the conservation technician and wildlife specialist for the Fairfield Soil and Water Conservation District. He can be reached at 740-653-8154.