1. **State the problem:** We need to find the area of a circle with radius 18 ft in terms of $\pi$. 2. **Formula:** The area $A$ of a circle is given by the formula: $$A = \pi r^2$$ where $r$ is the radius. 3. **Substitute the radius:** Here, $r = 18$ ft, so: $$A = \pi \times 18^2$$ 4. **Calculate the square:** $$18^2 = 324$$ 5. **Final expression:** $$A = 324\pi$$ **Answer:** The area of the circle is $324\pi$ square feet.