Smokey Bear reminded Kiva elementary students that “Only you can prevent wildfires.”
Rebecca Samulski, of Firewise, drove the point home during a recent tour with students at the Carpenter Natural Area. But Smokey’s message has also evolved to include the benefits of wildfire as a natural process.
“We’re here to learn about the difference between bad wildfires that threaten houses, and the ones that are beneficial for the environment,” she told the kids after they swarmed Smokey with bear hugs and high-fives.
Forty students learned about fire components, fire behavior, fire prevention, wildlife adaptation to fire, campfire safety, natural wildfires and prescribed burns.
The Weber fire is an example of the importance of early education. The destructive fire was started by a juvenile who was not aware of the consequences.
“We’re making sure they understand fuels, recognize the danger of an unattended campfire or the problem of high grasses leading up to the deck of a home,” Samulski said.
Outdoor education is part of the Kiva format. Students walked to Carpenter Natural Area park from their campus in downtown Cortez.
“It is part of our program of how humans affect the environment,” said Kiva teacher Lindsay Wilwol. “Smokey the Bear was a surprise for the kids.”
Half of all wildfires are started by lightning, Samulski said. What are some of the other reasons?
“Bombs, wind, moss, welding, bushes, matches, cigarettes and gas” were some answers.
Some students recognize the differences between wildfire pictures showing destructive crown fires, and low-intensity prescribed burns used to reduce ladder fuels.
“The smaller one is lit on purpose to prevent larger fires,” says student Gus Close.
“Bad fires cause landslides afterwards,” said another student.
Wearing backpacks and clutching snacks, the students walked the trail under sunny skies to the next wildfire learning station.
“I liked Smokey because he’s soft,” said second-grader Afton Unrein. “Today is nice because there is lots of nature, and I love nature.”
