Central California’s lumbering wood beast needs a name

Move over Yogi. There is a new oversized bear drawing attention in California’s San Joaquin Valley.

A massive wooden bear sculpture has been installed in Merced County, and unlike real bears, this one is not roaming for food. It is simply waiting for a name.

County officials are inviting the public to help name the larger than life carving, which was created from a dying tree that had stood in the park for more than a century. Rather than removing it entirely, officials chose to transform the trunk into a permanent feature for the community. District 2 Supervisor Josh Pedrozo said the statue reflects the character and spirit of the area.

Bears already hold a special place in Merced. The Applegate Zoo is home to two black bears and is preparing to open a new exhibit next month. Merced High School also uses a bear as its mascot, reinforcing the community’s connection to the animal.

The new sculpture in Courthouse Park was created by local woodcarver Tommy McCarty, a native of Dos Palos who has more than a decade of experience. He began working full time in 2020 through his business, McCarty Wood Sculpting.

McCarty said the project came together after the park reached out about the aging tree. Officials wanted to preserve its presence in a meaningful way rather than remove it entirely. He completed the carving in just three days and said the response from the public has been overwhelmingly positive.

He explained that after carving so many bears over the years, the process has become second nature. What may look impressive to onlookers, he said, feels routine to him as part of his craft.

Now, the final step is in the hands of the public. Residents can submit name ideas for the sculpture through May 31. The winning entry will be recognized by the Merced County Board of Supervisors.