The fictional character Smokey Bear is run by three groups : the United States Forest Service , the National Association of State Foresters , and the Ad Council Smokey Bear 's name and image are protected by U.S. federal law , the Smokey Bear Act of 1952 ( 16 U.S.C. 580 ( p-2 ) ; 18 U.S.C. 711 ) . The fictional character Smokey Bear is administered by three entities : the United States Forest Service , the National Association of State Foresters , and the Ad Council . Smokey Bear 's name and image are protected by U.S. federal law , the Smokey Bear Act of 1952 ( 16 U.S.C. 580 ( p-2 ) ; 18 U.S.C. 711 ) .