Smokey Bear stolen from Tally Lake Ranger District

May 2—Striking the Tally Lake Ranger District office on Sunday, thieves made off with an American icon.

At about 3:30 a.m. April 28, a pickup truck drove up onto the sidewalk outside the Wolfpack Way district office in Kalispell and its occupants stole the two-dimensional visage of Smokey Bear affixed to a fire prevention sign.

The facsimile of the beloved bear was relatively new, officials said.

"He's our icon and it's coming up on his birthday this year ... You know, he's near and dear to our hearts," said Kira Powell, spokesperson for the Flathead National Forest.

Smokey, who was born as the symbol of a public fire prevention campaign on Aug. 9, 1944, is turning 80 this year.

The Tally Lake Ranger District's bear has been seen on better days holding a shovel. He is described as wearing a peaked khaki campaign hat and blue jeans with his name emblazoned on his belt buckle.

If Smokey is not returned, his replacement will cost the district — and taxpayers, officials said — an estimated $3,500.

The Forest Service is asking the public for help regarding Smokey Bear's whereabouts. Any information can be given to the Tally Lake Ranger District at 406-758-5204.

Reporter Kate Heston can be reached at kheston@dailyinterlake.com or 758-4459.