Contact: Matt Johnson, 907.469.1131

KING SALMON - A design by Fred Anderson of Naknek, Alaska, won the annual Brooks Camp bear pin logo contest in Katmai National Park. Park staff distribute the pins to over 20,000 visitors who complete mandatory bear safety training at Brooks Camp.

"I wanted my design to be educational, respectful of Alaska Native cultures, and stress bear safety to children of all ages," said artist Fred Anderson. "I am a Katmai descendent and feel a special connection to the land spirit. I am a community advocate, educator, culture bearer, and mask maker."

The bear pins are treasured mementos of wonder-filled park visits, safety reminders, and quick visual confirmations that safety training was completed. The annual design contest opens in January for residents of southwest Alaska. Limited-edition color pins are awarded to visitors who exhibit especially safe and responsible behavior around bears.

"Alaska Native People have produced hoop masks for hundreds of years," said Mr. Anderson. "My mask design incorporates the bear, fish, and Katmai 2026 script."

The pin features the face of a bear with a salmon tail in its jaws. Four claws and three salmon surround the bear. A row of mountains crosses the bottom of the pin and underneath it reads "Katmai 2026."

The pins are funded by the Katmai Conservancy. The Conservancy supports Katmai's unique ecosystems, scenic character, and natural and cultural resources by promoting greater public interest, appreciation, and support through education, interpretation, and research. For more information about the Conservancy visit www.katmaiconservancy.org.

For more information about Katmai National Park visit www.nps.gov/katm and follow us on Facebook, Youtube, Flickr, or Instagram.

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