Single Publication

On Thursday, August 29, the Middle Fork Complex Fire’s Public Information Officers had an exciting opportunity to visit Garden Valley School in Garden Valley, Idaho, and chat with students from Kindergarten through Grade 12. The day was split into two energetic assemblies—one for the Kindergarten through Grade 5 group (elementary) and one for the Grade 6 through Grade 12 group (middle and high school).

For the younger students, the fire triangle—heat, oxygen, and fuel—was the star of the show. The officers demonstrated how these elements work together to create a fire and what happens when you take one element away. The real highlight, though, was when Smokey Bear made a surprise appearance, escorted by Fire Chief Paul Cleaveland. The kids were thrilled! As they left, a 5th-grade class passed on heartfelt letters thanking the firefighters. These letters are heading to camp and other places to spread the gratitude! 

The middle and high school students had their turn to dive into the world of wildland firefighting. Sheena Waters shared her journey from firefighter to Branch Operations Director on the Middle Fork Complex, while Scott Brandt talked about his role as a Fisheries Biologist protecting everything from cultural and historic sites to rare plants and animals during wildfires. The students were engaged and eager to learn, wrapping up with a lively Q&A session that kept everyone on their toes.

A big shoutout to Garden Valley School for hosting such a fantastic day and to Stephanie Patota (Emmett District Visitor Information Assistant) and Andrew Hostad (Boise National Forest Fire Prevention) for their help in making the assemblies a blast!

Check out some pictures from the event:

• Surprise appearance by Smokey Bear 
• Students explore firefighter gear
• Team that assisted with the school assembly