OFFICIAL SMOKEY BEAR TEE (Portion of Proceeds go to US Forest Service)

VIEW NATIONAL FORESTS COLLECTION

In the spring of 1950, crews of forest rangers fought to contain a massive wildfire in the Capitan Mountains. A lone bear cub took refuge in a tree, narrowly escaping with his life, but with badly burned paws and hind legs. Rangers treated the cub's injuries and news spread nationwide of the little bear that survived. People wrote and called in to see about his recovery, prompting the chief of the Forest Service to designate him as the symbol of conservation and wildfire prevention. The little cub made a full recovery and became Smokey Bear.

*Please Note: this tee is excluded from sales / promotions so that we can raise funds for the US Forest Service.

Super soft tri-blend poly/cotton/rayon (50/25/25) tee.

Designed in Michigan by The Mitten State.
Assembled in USA.
Officially licensed.

The phrase "Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires" is indelibly linked to Smokey Bear, one of the most enduring symbols of public service campaigns in the United States. Originating in 1944 as a collaboration between the U.S. Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters, the Smokey Bear campaign aimed to prevent wildfires by raising awareness and encouraging responsible behavior when it came to fire safety.

The original phrase was tweaked in 2001 to "Only You Can Prevent Wildfires." This change wasn't just cosmetic; it was intentional and nuanced. The term "forest fires" was limited in its scope, focusing only on wooded areas. However, wildfires can occur in various landscapes, including grasslands, scrublands, and more. By changing the term to "wildfires," the campaign broadened its reach and relevance, encapsulating all forms of uncontrolled fires that could be prevented by human intervention.

Super soft tri-blend poly/cotton/rayon (50/25/25) tee.
Designed in Michigan by The Mitten State.
Assembled in USA.

Officially licensed.

Created in 1971 by the U.S. Forest Service, Woodsy's famous phrase is, "Give a Hoot—Don't Pollute!" Over the years, his message has expanded to include other conservation actions like recycling and wildlife protection. Woodsy Owl serves as a symbol of responsible environmental stewardship, encouraging Americans of all ages to take an active role in preserving the natural world.

Super soft heathered tri-blend poly/cotton/rayon (50/25/25) tee.

Designed in Michigan by The Mitten State.
Assembled in USA.

Officially licensed.

Super soft tri-blend poly/cotton/rayon (50/25/25) tee.

Designed in Michigan by The Mitten State.
Assembled in USA.
Officially licensed.

Super soft heathered cotton/poly (52/48) fleece hoodie.

Designed in Michigan by The Mitten State.
Assembled in USA.

Officially licensed.