Visit the North Carolina Forest Service exhibit area to learn about our state’s rich history in forestry and how our forestland is a significant influence in the state, providing economic value and adding immeasurably to the quality of life for residents. Learn about the many programs and services the N.C. Forest Service provides for the citizens of North Carolina – and beyond! Meet forest rangers, see and touch forest service equipment, and learn how you can prevent wildfires. Just follow the path behind Heritage Circle and head up the hill to the Robert “Bob” Stanfield Natural Resources Center, or enter the Fairgrounds through newly opened Gate 7 and follow the paved path up the hill to be greeted by Big Smokey.
Outside exhibits and the Firewise building in the Forest Service area are open daily from 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Inside exhibits in the Robert “Bob” Stanfield Natural Resources Center are open daily from 9 a.m. to 9:45 p.m. Note that exhibits do not open until noon on Thursday, Oct. 13.
Learn About Your North Carolina Forest Service In the exhibit area, staff members will be available to share information about the many programs and services the N.C. Forest Service provides, including how to improve your forested property with a woodland plan and how you can help keep invasive insects and plants from affecting our state. Tour the Firewise building to learn how to create a fire-resistant landscape around your home and property. Enjoy interactive environmental education activities and games. New this year, enjoy a variety of scheduled programs designed to teach people of all ages about wildfire prevention, forest resources in our state and the importance of conservation. Programs include:
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Meet Smokey Bear
Be sure to stop and meet Smokey Bear! “Big Smokey” has been entertaining and educating fairgoers since 1983. He stands 21 feet tall, weighs more than 1,200 pounds and can talk! |
See Forest Service Aircraft and Equipment Children of all ages can see and take pictures of real N.C. Forest Service equipment, such as an airplane, bulldozer and Type 6 fire engine! Climb inside and fly our interactive helicopter, and step into a fire tower cab. New this year, N.C. Forest Service personnel will provide fairgoers with a touch-a-truck experience featuring Type 4 and Type 6 engines as well as a dozer and Flex Trac. Touch-a-truck sessions will be available daily from 10 a.m. – noon and 3 p.m. – 5 p.m. These sessions are subject to change based on staff availability. |
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Paul Bunyan Lumberjack Show presented by
Head up to the N.C. Forest Service area, located behind Heritage Circle, and you'll find real-life lumberjacks showcasing their skills in axe throwing, crosscut sawing, chainsaw carving, chainsaw safety and log rolling. These lumberjacks aren't just here for laughs, learn about issues impacting our forests, what the future holds and why we need our forests. |
