East Texas forester wins Smokey Bear award for fire prevention efforts

HUDSON, Texas ( KETK ) – A Texas A&M Forest Service Forester who works in Hudson was honored with a bronze Smokey Bear award recently.

Michelle Moore received the award for her creation of a wildfire prevention resource guide, a first-of-its-kind invention. Her “Introduction to Fire Prevention” virtual resource guide is a Texas-specific guide designed to help educate volunteer fire departments, the public and foresters about how to prevent wildfires.

“Michelle was instrumental in the construction and launch of this program that creates a way to share these valuable resources for those with diverse needs across the state,” said Karen Stafford, Texas A&M Forest Service Program Coordinator.

She’s also made pet rescue and adoption center-specific fire training kits that contain resources for homeowners, fire mitigation, evacuation and pet-specific emergency resources. Moore learned about the need for a wildfire resource guide when she helped with fire prevention activities and presentations in East Texas during the 2021, 2022 and 2023 fire seasons.

“Michelle took great initiative to create these accessible resources following her introduction to fire prevention, and we are so grateful she did,” said Stafford. “Her unique perspective on wildfires and fire prevention was crucial to the success of this program’s reach.”

Moore’s guide is now used to help all new Texas A&M Forest Service staff learn about their fire prevention operations and resources.

The bronze Smokey Bear award was started in the 1950’s and it’s the highest honor that a person can receive for helping to prevent forest fires.

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