EBS STAFF
On Sept. 15, 1971, the United States Department of Agriculture’s Woodsy Owl was introduced, meaning this week, the mascot is celebrating his 54th birthday. Known best for his quip, “Give a hoot, don’t pollute,” Woodsy’s mission remains steadfast, to raise awareness about environmental protection, both in the forest and in local communities.
In the decades since, Woodsy has expanded his mantra to “Lend a hand, care for the land,” in order to widen his messaging around proper land stewardship.
“While it’s still important to not pollute, there’s so much more to taking care of the forests and all the other natural places we love than simply not polluting,” Woodsy Owl stated in a Sept. 15 press release.
To celebrate his birthday, Woodsy reminds everyone to practice the “4Rs” of litter prevention: reduce your daily garbage; reuse by donating old clothes, games, books and other items in good condition; recycle paper, glass and cans at a recycling center; and rot, or compost food scraps and yard waste when possible.
