Date: October 16, 2009
KAIBAB NATIONAL FOREST PLANS TO CONTINUE TEN X BURN PROJECT
For Immediate Release: Oct. 16, 2009
Contact: Punky Moore 928-635-5653
Ten-X Prescribed Burn Update
WILLIAMS, Ariz. – Fire managers are prepared to resume work on the Ten-X Prescribed Burn southeast of Tusayan on the Kaibab National Forest on Monday, Oct. 19. Pending favorable weather conditions and Arizona Department of Environmental Approval (ADEQ), personnel plan to continue ignition on the approximate 2,000-acre project.
Personnel implemented the burn this week with about 180 acres ignited on Wednesday. On Thursday, unfavorable northerly winds prevailed which prompted managers to cancel ignitions for the day, thus avoiding smoke impacts to Tusayan and Grand Canyon Airport.
The Ten-X project is located four miles southeast of Tusayan along Forest Roads 302 and 303. Previous burned areas, including the 2008 X Fire, and 2009 Ruby and Rae fires, lie adjacent to the Ten-X project.
As the project continues, smoke may be visible at times from Tusayan and along portions of Highway 64. Next week’s predicted winds should carry smoke away from Tusayan.
To provide for public safety, a temporary detour on the Arizona Trail will reroute users from Watson Tank onto Forest Road 303 for about a mile, in the event that smoke impacts the trail.
Our prescribed burn projects are part of an ongoing effort to ensure that future fires in the area remain at a lower level of intensity, thereby protecting firefighters and the community. Implementation of these projects is contingent on favorable weather and ADEQ approval.
For more information on our prescribed burns please visit the Inciweb at http://www.inciweb.org/incident/1878/ (http://www.inciweb.org/incident/1878/ ) or contact Punky Moore, Fire Information Officer,
928-635-5653.
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Date: October 15, 2009
PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST PRESSES ON WITH PRESCRIBED BURN PLANS
For Immediate Release: October 13, 2009 Contact: Jaime Gamboa 928-777-5651
PRESCOTT, AZ (October 13, 2009) - Pending favorable conditions, fire managers are planning the following prescribed fires for the week of October 15th-24th. Depending on conditions, any of the areas may be treated during the week. The Forest Service prepares comprehensive fire plans in advance of any prescribed burn project. The plan specifies information on weather and fuel conditions that must exist before a fire will be ignited. All prescribed fire activity is dependent on personnel availability, weather (including ventilation conditions) and approval from the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ).
October 15-16th
Chino RD:
o Camp Wood – Approximately 1500 acres, west of Hyde Mountain (T17N, R7W, Sec 27,28,33,34)
October 18-24th
Bradshaw RD:
o Horsethief – Approximately 320 acres, north of Towers Mountain (T10N,R1W,Sec 4,33)
o Minnehaha – Approximately 1500 acres, south of Battleship Butte (T11N,R2W,Sec 17, 8)
The purpose of all prescribed fire treatments is to return fire to its natural role in the ecosystem, protect life and property from wildfire, and manage for a diverse and well-distributed pattern of habitats for wildlife populations. Road closures are not expected, but drivers may encounter road delays and smoke in some areas and are asked to please be cautious when driving in these areas.
The public can obtain prescribed fire information via the following:
Prescott NF Fire Information Hotline: 928-777-5799
Prescott NF Forest Website: //www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott
Bradshaw Ranger District 928-443-8000
Chino Ranger District 928-777-2200
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Date: October 2, 2009
GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK CONTINUES WITH FALL BURNING PLANS
For Immediate Release: September 28, 2009
Contact: Shannan Marcak, Phone: 928-638-7958
Fall Prescribed Burn Planned at Grand Canyon
Grand Canyon, AZ. -- Grand Canyon National Park fire officials are planning to conduct a prescribed fire on the South Rim within the next two weeks if weather and forest conditions permit. The burn will include three adjoining burn units located south of Highway 64 near Grandview Point about nine miles southeast of Grand Canyon Village. Approximately 550 acres will be treated. Aerial ignition will be used, and it is anticipated that the three units may burn in one day. Smoke is projected to disperse to the northeast and will likely settle into the canyon at night, beginning to lift out with daytime heating by late morning.
Portions of these burn units and the surrounding areas burned previously this year during the Ruby Fire on the Kaibab National Forest (to the west and south) and the Game Reserve Fire within Grand Canyon National Park (to the north and east). The Watson 1 burn unit includes 235 unburned acres within the 365 acre unit. The Hance burn unit includes 272 unburned acres within the 342 acre unit. The Watson 1 and Hance burn units last burned in 2007. The Hearst Tank burn unit includes 44 unburned acres within the 933 acre unit. This will be the first prescribed burn within the Hearst Tank burn unit. All three burn units contain ponderosa pine and pinyon/juniper stands as well as grass and brush.
Prior to prescribed burning, Grand Canyon National Park fire managers will evaluate weather and fuel conditions and will coordinate with the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality. Fire ignition will only occur when environmental factors such as wind, temperature, and relative humidity are favorable. If conditions do not meet predetermined standards, the burn will be postponed until conditions are appropriate.
Prescribed burns play an important role in decreasing risks to life, property and resources by reducing accumulations of forest fuels and maintaining the natural role of fire in a fire-dependent ecosystem.
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Date: September 28, 2009
FALL FIRE PLANS FOR GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK
Fall Prescribed Burn Planned at Grand Canyon
Release date: September 28, 2009
Contact: Shannan Marcak 928-638-7958
Grand Canyon, AZ. -- Grand Canyon National Park fire officials are planning to conduct a prescribed fire on the South Rim within the next two weeks if weather and forest conditions permit. The burn will include three adjoining burn units located south of Highway 64 near Grandview Point about nine miles southeast of Grand Canyon Village. Approximately 550 acres will be treated. Aerial ignition will be used, and it is anticipated that the three units may burn in one day. Smoke is projected to disperse to the northeast and will likely settle into the canyon at night, beginning to lift out with daytime heating by late morning.
Portions of these burn units and the surrounding areas burned previously this year during the Ruby Fire on the Kaibab National Forest (to the west and south) and the Game Reserve Fire within Grand Canyon National Park (to the north and east). The Watson 1 burn unit includes 235 unburned acres within the 365 acre unit. The Hance burn unit includes 272 unburned acres within the 342 acre unit. The Watson 1 and Hance burn units last burned in 2007. The Hearst Tank burn unit includes 44 unburned acres within the 933 acre unit. This will be the first prescribed burn within the Hearst Tank burn unit. All three burn units contain ponderosa pine and pinyon/juniper stands as well as grass and brush.
Prior to prescribed burning, Grand Canyon National Park fire managers will evaluate weather and fuel conditions and will coordinate with the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality. Fire ignition will only occur when environmental factors such as wind, temperature, and relative humidity are favorable. If conditions do not meet predetermined standards, the burn will be postponed until conditions are appropriate.
Prescribed burns play an important role in decreasing risks to life, property and resources by reducing accumulations of forest fuels and maintaining the natural role of fire in a fire-dependent ecosystem.
Minor traffic delays are possible in the vicinity of this planned fire. When necessary, public safety personnel will direct traffic in these areas.
For information on plans for South Rim prescribed fires, please call 928-638-7958. To learn more about fire management in Grand Canyon National Park, visit the park’s web site at www.nps.gov/grca/parkmgmt/firemanagement.htm.
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Date: September 28, 2009
KAIBAB CONTINUES WITH FALL BURNING PROJECTS
For Immediate Release Sept. 25, 2009
Punky Moore 928-635-5653
Kaibab National Forest Prescribed Burns
WILLIAMS, Ariz. – A forecasted shift in the weather pattern will provide suitable conditions to implement prescribed burns on the Kaibab National Forest starting Monday, Sept. 28. Planned projects include the Ten-X burn on the Tusayan Ranger District and the Twin and City burns on the Williams Ranger District. Winds are predicted to switch from this week’s easterly component to a southwesterly direction which will provide a good opportunity to work on these projects.
The Ten-X project is located four miles southeast of Tusayan between Forest Roads 302 and 303 covering approximately 2,000 acres. The project will begin Monday and continue over a period of days or weeks depending on weather and smoke production. While the project is underway, a temporary detour of the Arizona Trail will reroute users from Watson Tank onto Forest Road 303 for about a mile.
On Tuesday, personnel plan to complete containment line work on the Twin burn located five miles south of Williams on the Williams district. Pending favorable weather, evening operations will occur on the south slope of Bill Williams Mountain near Twin Springs Road. Evening conditions with cool temperatures and diurnal winds will help prevent rapid fire spread while personnel ignite the 20-acre burn along a section of the northern containment line.
Later in the week on the Williams district, personnel intend to ignite the 300-acre City Northeast Freeway unit located east of Williams between I-40 and Highway 64. Smoke will be present along portions of I-40. Please use caution traveling through the area.
Our prescribed burn projects are part of an ongoing effort to ensure that future fires in the area remain at a lower level of intensity, thereby protecting firefighters and the community. Implementation of these projects is contingent on favorable weather and Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) approval.
For more information on our prescribed burns please visit the Inciweb at http://www.inciweb.org/incident/1878/ (http://www.inciweb.org/incident/1878/ ) and http://www.inciweb.org/incident/1880/ (http://www.inciweb.org/incident/1880/ ) or contact Punky Moore, Fire Information Officer, 928-635-5653.
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Date: September 18, 2009
PRESCOTT PRESSES ON WITH FALL PRESCRIBED BURNING PLANS
PRESCOTT, AZ (Sept. 18, 2009) - Prescott National Forest fire management officials plan to conduct prescribed burns in the Sierra Prieta area Monday, September 21 through Tuesday, September 22; and the Powell Springs area Wednesday, September 23 through Friday, September 25; weather conditions permitting.
The Sierra Prieta prescribed burn is located four miles east of downtown Prescott (Township 14 N, Range 3 W, Section 34 and 35). The project area will consist of approximately 200 acres.
The Powell Springs prescribed burn is located along Highway 169 (Township 13 N, Range 3 E, Section 2, 3, 10, and 11). The project area will consist of approximately 600 acres.
No road closures are expected, but drivers may encounter road delays in both areas and are asked to please be cautious when driving in these areas.
Both prescribed burns are on-going projects consisting of several past prescribed fire entries which reduce ponderosa pine understory and thick chaparral vegetation, maintain the health of ponderosa pine stands and, protect the Wildland Urban Interface in the event of a catastrophic wildfire.
Specific days to burn are determined by appropriate air temperatures, wind conditions, humidity and expected weather patterns. Smoke may be visible for numerous days in the surrounding areas. Signs will be posted warning drivers and residents of fire activity. Prescribed burns help remove dead vegetation, invigorate the plant and animal communities, promote a healthy watershed and will help return fire to its natural role in the ecosystem.
As always, public and firefighter safety is our top priority. For current information on prescribed burns visit www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott/or call the Prescott National Forest fire information line at 928-777-5799.
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Date: September 18, 2009
KAIBAB CONTINUES WITH PRESCRIBED BURN PLANS
Tusayan Ranger District Continues Prescribed Burn Projects
TUSAYAN, Ariz - As a continuation of our prescribed fire program, personnel are preparing to implement the Ten X Prescribed Burn Project on the Tusayan Ranger District next week. If environmental factors are favorable and Arizona Department of Environmental Quality endorses the request, burning on the Ten X Project, four miles southeast of Tusayan, will begin.
The burn unit is located between Forest Roads 302 and 303 just north of the Ten X Ranch and covers approximately 2,800 acres. The site is bounded by previously burned areas on the west, north and east. More than half of the project area was previously burned in the 2004 Transfer Fire.
The project will be implemented over a period of days or weeks depending on fuels and weather conditions. The Ten X burn will be visible from Tusayan, Highway 64, Grand Canyon National Park and Forest Road 302.
Officials will burn on days when favorable winds are forecasted to minimize impacts to the community, Grand Canyon National Park Airport and outlying areas. Ignitions will be completed as early as possible in the afternoon to allow for maximum smoke dispersal. Smoke impacts to the surrounding area should be short-term in nature.
We understand that smoke created while we accomplish our prescribed burning projects impacts people in our community. We appreciate your tolerance to some smoke now in order to reduce future occurrence of severe wildfires.
In order to keep the public apprised of the implementation of our prescribed fire projects, maps, photos and information will be posted on the Inciweb at http://www.inciweb.org/incident/1878/ (http://www.inciweb.org/incident/1878/ )
For more information, please contact Punky Moore (928-635-5653).
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Date: September 11, 2009
PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST PLANS BURNS NEAR MINGUS MOUNTAIN AND BEAN PEAK
For Immediate Release
September 11, 2009
Contact: Dave Gesser
(928) 777-5655
Scott Spleiss
(928) 567-1156
Prescribed Burn Scheduled in Bean Peaks area and Mingus Mountain
PRESCOTT, AZ (September 11, 2009)—Prescott National Forest fire management officials plan to conduct prescribed burns in the Bean Peaks and Mingus Mountain areas beginning Monday, September 14th, through Friday, September 18th, weather conditions permitting. The Bean Peaks prescribed burn is located three miles south of downtown Prescott (Township 13 N, Range 2 W, Section 22 and 23). The project area will consist of approximately 500 acres. Fire officials also plan to conduct the Mingus Maintenance burn located in the Mingus Springs Camp area (Township 15 N, Range 2 E, Sections 28 and 33) five miles southeast of Potato Patch Campground, which will encompass approximately 1000 acres.
Both prescribed burns are on-going projects consisting of several past prescribed fire entries which reduce ponderosa pine understory and thick chaparral vegetation, maintain the health of ponderosa pine stands and, protect the Wildland Urban Interface in the event of a catastrophic wildfire.
Specific days to burn are determined by appropriate air temperatures, wind conditions, humidity and expected weather patterns. Smoke may be visible for numerous days in the surrounding areas. Signs will be posted warning drivers and residents of fire activity. Prescribed burns help remove dead vegetation, invigorate the plant and animal communities, promote a healthy watershed and will help return fire to its natural role in the ecosystem.
As always, public and firefighter safety is our top priority. For current information on prescribed burns visit http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott (http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott ) or call the Prescott National Forest fire information line at 928-777-5799.
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Date: September 10, 2009
KAIBAB NATIONAL FOREST NOT PROCEEDING WITH TWIN PRESCRIBED FIRE PROJECT
UPDATE (Sept. 10, 1:23 pm) - The prescribed burn planned this evening on the Twin Project on the south side of Bill Williams Mountain has been cancelled. The site received significant moisture yesterday. Managers will reassess the project next week for possible ignition.
For Immediate Release: Sept. 9, 2009
Contact: Punky Moore 928-635-5653
Kaibab National Forest Continues Work on Twin Prescribed Fire Project
WILLIAMS, Ariz. – Fire managers with the Kaibab National Forest are continuing work on the Twin Prescribed Fire Project, located south of Williams on the south side of Bill Williams Mountain. Personnel plan to conduct evening burning operations along containment lines on one of the units in the project area on Thursday, Sept. 10.
Implementation of the project will occur if favorable burning conditions exist and Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) approves the burn request.
Given the location of the project on the south slope of Bill Williams Mountain, evening conditions with cool temperatures and diurnal winds will help prevent rapid fire spread while personnel ignite the 20-acre burn along the northern containment lines. Next week, officials plan to conduct aerial ignitions on the rest of the 812-acre unit and on another unit (338 acres) in the Twin Project further southwest near Forest Road 108, commonly known as the Loop Road.
The burns will be monitored for fire spread and smoke production. Smoke is expected to drift south and west of the project site. Camping and hunting near the prescribed burn areas is not advised.
Our prescribed burn projects are part of an ongoing effort to ensure that future fires in the area remain at a lower level of intensity, thereby protecting firefighters and the community.
We understand our prescribed burns impact the community. We appreciate the community’s tolerance of some smoke during the implementation of our projects. For more information on our prescribed burns please visit the Inciweb at http://www.inciweb.org/incident/1880 (http://www.inciweb.org/incident/1880 ) or contact Punky Moore, Fire Information Officer, at 928-635-5653.
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Date: September 10, 2009
SLASH PILE BURNING SCHEDULED ON PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST
For Immediate Release September 8, 2009
Contact: Sean West (928) 777-5667
Prescott National Forest Plans Two Slash Pile Burns
PRESCOTT, AZ (Sept. 8, 2009) - Fire managers plan to burn accumulated slash piles in two locations Wednesday, Sept. 9 through Friday, Sept. 11; weather conditions permitting.
The first location includes 100 acres of piles in Ponderosa Park (T13N,R2W,Sec.28) southwest of Prescott.
The second location includes 3 slash piles in Crown King (T9N,R1W,Sec.6) at the gravel pit.
Specific days to burn are determined by current and expected weather patterns. These piles will be monitored and allowed to completely burn themselves out. Smoke may be visible in the surrounding area.
These projects are part of an ongoing effort to improve forest health by reintroducing fire into the ecosystem, reducing hazardous fuels, and creating defensible space around residential and high use areas.
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Date: September 1, 2009
TONTO NATIONAL FOREST CLOSES FOUR CAMPGROUNDS WHILE FIGHTING WATER WHEEL FIRE
For Immediate Release Contact: Payson Ranger District
September 1, 2009 928-474-7900
Closures in effect on Payson Ranger District:
Public and firefighter safety on Water Wheel Fire
Payson, Ariz. (September 1, 2009) – Tonto National Forest officials announced today that certain key roads and several recreation sites in the vicinity of the Water Wheel Fire are closed in order to provide for public and firefighter safety during fire suppression activities associated with the fire. Incident management team firefighting specialists have verified that the Water Wheel fire is now at 20 percent containment.
The closure area includes all National Forest System lands, roads and trails within the Little Diamond Rim area. These boundaries are:
Forest Road (FR) 64 on the north
FR 1170 on the west
FR 1171 on the south to the East Verde River, then directly east along the north boundary of Freedom Acres subdivision (junction of Township 111/2 North, Range 10 East, Section 3 and Section 2)
FR 199 on the east, including forest lands east of FR 199 as described:
The closure area east of FR 199 is marked by Beaver Valley Estates on the southern boundary to the Whispering Pines subdivision on the northern boundary, with the closure area including the following recreation sites: Water Wheel, First Crossing, Second Crossing, Third Crossing, and Cold Spring recreation sites.
“These closures are needed to protect forest users, visitors, firefighters, structures and natural resources until firefighters are able to contain this fire,” said Tonto National Forest Deputy Fire Staff Officer Helen Graham. “Other areas of the Tonto National Forest remain open for recreation activity, including campsites and recreation sites throughout the forest and all the Salt River system lakes.”
“With the ongoing drought we are experiencing in our forest and the high number of visitors we expect during this major holiday weekend coming up, we continue to emphasize practicing extreme caution in all fire practices, such as making campfires. Make sure that campfires are absolutely out before departing your area.”
“Dead out,” emphasized Graham.
For further information regarding recreation sites and fire restrictions, please contact the Payson Ranger District at (928) 474-7900, or check online at www.fs.fed.us/r3/tonto.
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Date: August 31, 2009
KAIBAB NATIONAL FOREST PLANS BURN EAST OF WILLIAMS
For Immediate Release Aug. 28, 2009
Punky Moore 928-635-5653
BREAKING NEWS: THIS PROJECT HAS BEEN CANCELLED
Kaibab National Forest Prepares to Burn on the City Prescribed Project
WILLIAMS, Ariz. – Fire managers with the Kaibab National Forest announce prescribed burning will occur on the Williams Ranger District next week, depending on conditions and Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) approval. If the temperature, wind, humidity and ventilation are favorable and ADEQ endorses the request, personnel will burn approximately 300 acres Tuesday, on the Northeast Freeway unit of the City Prescribed Burn Project.
The project is east of Williams, south of I-40 and southwest of Highway 64. The Freeway unit will be ignited early in the morning to allow for maximum smoke dispersal. Managers expect moderate to heavy smoke production during the burn.
We understand that smoke created while we accomplish our prescribed burning projects impacts people in our community. We strive to keep community members, particularly those with sensitivities to smoke, informed of our plans and activities.
Prescribed burns are used to protect communities, reduce excess fuels on the forest floor and produce healthier habitats. These projects will help to ensure that future fires in the area remain at a lower level of intensity, providing protection for firefighters and communities. For more information, please contact Punky Moore (928-635-5653).
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Date: August 28, 2009
PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST TO CONTINUE WITH CONTROLLED BURN PLANS
For Immediate Release August 28, 2009
Contact: Debbie Maneely (928) 443-8130
LATE BREAKING NEWS - THIS PLAN HAS BEEN CANCELLED
Prescribed Burning September 1-5
PRESCOTT, AZ (August 28, 2009) - Fire officials plan to burn approximately 4500 acres on Tuesday, September 1 through Saturday, September 5; weather conditions permitting. The burn area is located south and east of Palace Station near Ash Creek (T11N, R1W, S32).
Specific days to burn are determined by appropriate air temperatures, wind conditions, humidity and expected weather patterns. Smoke may be visible for numerous days in the surrounding areas with possible road delays on Forest Road 52. Signs will be posted warning drivers of fire activity and delays.
Prescribed burns help remove dead vegetation, invigorate the plant and animal communities, promote a healthy watershed and will help return fire to its natural role in the ecosystem. These burns are part of an ongoing fuels reduction project to reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfire on the Prescott National Forest.
As always, public and firefighter safety is our top priority. For current information on prescribed burns visit http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott (http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott ) or call the Prescott National Forest fire information line at 928-777-5799.
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Date: August 25, 2009
KAIBAB NATIONAL FOREST READIES TUSAYAN EAST CONTROLLED BURN PROJECT
For Immediate Release; Aug. 24, 2009
Contact: Punky Moore 928-635-5653
Kaibab National Forest Prepares To Burn on Tusayan East Project
TUSAYAN, Ariz. – This week, managers plan to ignite several units on the Tusayan East Project, northeast of Tusayan on the Kaibab National Forest. Favorable conditions exist for the burning given the recent rain and forecasted winds. Depending on conditions and Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) approval, personnel will ignite up to 100 acres Tuesday. Burning on additional units will be implemented throughout the week if conditions allow. The total project area available for burning is approximately 300 acres.
The burns will be ignited by hand and ignition should be completed by early afternoon to allow for good smoke dispersal. Forecasted westerly winds should transport smoke away from Tusayan during the day with a light haze expected in town overnight.
We understand that smoke created while we accomplish our prescribed burning projects impacts people in our community. We strive to keep community members, particularly those with sensitivities to smoke, informed of our plans and activities.
Prescribed burns are used to reduce excess fuels on the forest floor and produce healthier habitats. These projects will help to ensure that future fires in the area remain at a lower level of intensity, providing protection for firefighters and communities.
For more information, please contact Punky Moore (928-635-5653).
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Date: August 24, 2009
KAIBAB NATIONAL FOREST'S NORTH DISTRICT PREPARES FOR CONTROLLED BURN
For Immediate Release Aug. 24, 2009
Patrick Lair 928-643-8172
North Kaibab Prepares For Prescribed Burning
FREDONIA, Ariz. – As part of a continuing program to improve forest health and reduce hazardous fuels, the North Kaibab Ranger District of the Kaibab National Forest is preparing for two prescribed burns.
The North Kaibab Ranger District is planning to initiate the Holy Hollow prescribed burn as soon as favorable conditions allow, possibly later this week. The project area is approximately 2,100 acres and is located near Big Saddle Cabin, southwest of Dry Park. Fire personnel will use hand and aerial ignition methods.
The acres identified for treatment are bordered on the north by Forest Road 272A and on the south by Forest Road 272C. FR 272 will be temporarily closed to the public while firefighters are actively burning. Smoke will be heaviest the day of the burn and will linger for several days after the burn is complete. The public is urged to use caution when travelling in the area.
The North Kaibab Ranger District also plans to initiate the Stina prescribed burn after the Holy Hollow prescribed burn. The project area consists of around 200 acres of ponderosa pine in the vicinity of Timp Point and the Rainbow Rim Trail. The district will post updated information when the decision is made to move forward with that fire.
The ignition of all of our burns is dependent on a variety of factors, including the availability of personnel and equipment, weather, fuels and approval from the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ). Burns are conducted within a “prescription” that is determined by adequate fuel moisture levels, appropriate air temperatures, wind conditions, and relative humidity levels. Burns will be implemented, monitored and patrolled to ensure they meet the goals and objectives outlined by managers. The public may see smoke in various parts of the forest and in outlying areas. However, during the prescribed burn season, we strive to minimize smoke impacts to our communities.
For additional information, please contact Patrick Lair, Public Affairs Specialist (928-643-8172).
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Date: August 24, 2009
COCONINO NATIONAL FOREST DECLARES PARTIAL CLOSURE IN COCONINO COUNTY
COCONINO NATIONAL FOREST, PEAKS RANGER DISTRICT
EMERGENCY FIRE CLOSURE ORDER NO. 04-09-10-F
Pursuant to 16 U.S.C. 551, 36 CFR § 261.50(a), and 36 CFR § 261.50(b), the following acts are prohibited on all National Forest System lands within the Coconino National Forest, Peaks Ranger District in county Coconino. The restricted area is depicted in the attached map, herby incorporated into this Order as Exhibit A* within the Coconino National Forest.
PROHIBITIONS:
1. Going into or being upon the restricted area; 36 CFR § 261.52(e).
2. Being on the road, CFR § 261.54(e).
3. Being on the trail, CFR § 261.55(a).
AREA DESCRIPTION:
The area is closed starting at the junction of Forest Road (FR) 538D and 538, east along FR 538D to FR 231A, southeast along FR 231A to FR 231, southeast to FR539, west along FR539 to FR 6249, west 1.5 miles to power line, southwest along the power line to the Taylor Cabin Trail, northwest to Winter Cabin Trail, northeast along Winter Cabin
Trail to the Kelsey Springs trail junction, east to the junction of FR 538 and 538D.
Kelsey Springs, Taylor Cabin and Winter Cabin trails are closed.
The following roads will remain open for thru traffic only: FR 231A, 231, and 538D.
EXEMPTIONS:
Pursuant to 36 CFR § 261.50(e), the following persons are exempt from this closure order:
1. Persons with a Forest Service permit specifically authorizing the prohibited act oromission
2. Any Federal, State or Local Officer or member of an organized firefighting force in the performance of an official duty.
This order is necessary to protect the public health and safety from the threat of an active wildfire.
This order becomes effective at 6:00 AM, August 21, 2009, and will remain in force until September 21, 2009 or until rescinded.
Done at Flagstaff, Arizona, this 20th day of August, 2009.
JOE STRINGER
Forest Supervisor
Coconino National Forest
Violations of these regulations is punishable as a Class B misdemeanor, by a fine of not more than $5000 for an individual or $10,000 for an organization, or imprisonment for not more than six (6) months or both; 16 USC § 551, and 18 USC §§ 3559 and 3571.
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Date: August 20, 2009
KAIBAB NATIONAL FOREST SETS PLANS FOR FALL PRESCRIBED BURNING
For Immediate Release August 19, 2009
Punky Moore 928-635-5653
\
Prescribed Burn Season Preparation
WILLIAMS, Ariz. – As part of a continuing program to improve forest health, reduce hazardous fuels and protect communities, the Kaibab National Forest is preparing for this season’s prescribed burning program. The transition from summer to the fall burning period occurs rapidly as weather conditions in Northern Arizona can change the fuel moisture levels throughout the Forest in a relatively short time frame.
The ignition of all of our burns is dependent on the availability of personnel and equipment, weather, fuels and conditions that minimize smoke impacts as best as possible and Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) approval. Burns are conducted within a “prescription” that is determined by adequate fuel moisture levels, appropriate air temperatures, wind conditions, and relative humidity levels. Burns will be implemented, monitored and patrolled to ensure they meet the goals and objectives outlined by managers.
The prescribed burning program extends from the first fall rains until significant precipitation is received, generally in October or November. Over the next few months, the public may see smoke in various parts of the forest and in outlying areas.
During the prescribed burn season, we strive to minimize smoke impacts to our communities. Air quality will be monitored throughout the burning season by air quality monitoring equipment in Williams, Ariz. As soon as the equipment is cleaned, calibrated and installed, air quality information will be available by visiting the following website: http://www.satguard.com/usfs/. (http://www.satguard.com/usfs/. )
These are the prescribed burning projects on the Williams and Tusayan Ranger Districts that may occur this season. The projected total acreage in each area may not be accomplished this year depending on the length of the burning season, weather conditions and smoke impacts. Maps are available upon request.
Williams Ranger District
• City – Up to 1600 acres total (all under burning) – east and west of Williams, AZ
o Trail -- 478
o Escalante -- 793
o NE Freeway -- 296
• Twin – Up to 4300 acres total (all under burning) – south and west of Bill Williams
o Twin Hat Tank -- 739
o Twin South Hat -- 307
o Twin 10 -- 941
o Twin Stage West -- 2231
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• Spring Valley – Just over 1000 acres total – north and west of Spring Valley
o Section 16 Hill -- 436 (under burning)
o RS Tank -- 567 (pile burning and under burn)
• Frenchy/Pineaire – Up to 250 acres total – north and east of Sherwood Forest Subdivision
o Fire Station -- 244 (pile burning and under burn)
Tusayan District
• Ten-X -- 2000 acres total, (under burn)
• Tusayan East WUI -- 300 acres (under burn), ½ mile east of Tusayan
• Tusayan South WUI -- 400 acres (pile burning and under burn), ½ mile southeast of Grand Canyon airport.
• Miscellaneous pile burning -- up to 200 acres
For additional information, please contact Punky Moore, Fire Information Officer, (928-635-5653).
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Date: August 20, 2009
SITGREAVES NATIONAL FOREST ANNOUNCES TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE WHILE MANAGING MULTIPLE FIRES
For Immediate Release August 19, 2009
Contact: Julia Faith Rivera 928-333-6336
Fire Activity Continues in the Rim Country and White Mountains
Springerville, AZ…. Wildland fire activity continues in the Rim Country and the White Mountains. Residents and visitors are seeing smoke in several areas, and Forest Road 170 is temporarily closed to public use to provide for public and firefighter safety.
Six lighting-caused wildfires continue to be managed to achieve resource management objectives on the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests. Fire, at regular intervals, can help burn litter and release soil nutrients. The Durfee, Weimer, Wildcat, Pierce Mountain, Home, Wildcat and Wallow fires are expected to remain active until rain fully extinguishes them.
Sitgreaves National Forest Fire Activity:
Durfee Fire – Located about 9 miles northwest of Heber. Size Estimate – 1,450 acres
This fire is burning in the canyons on the west side of Forest Road 170, and is also actively burning on the East side of Forest Road 170. As a safety measure to protect the public and fighters, Forest Road 170 is temporarily closed to public use. It is closed on the South end at the junction with Forest Road 9517, which is the road to Weimer Point, and also closed on the north end at the junction with Forest Road 504. Smoke columns from the Durfee Fire are likely to be visible today because the fire is burning heavy fuels. Currently, fire managers are working to mitigate the safety concerns along Forest Road 170, so the temporary travel restriction can be lifted.
Weimer Fire - located about 7 miles north of Forest Lakes Size Estimate – 1,250 acres
Continues to burn in the canyons east of Chevelon Canyon Lake, and is slowly moving toward the north. Overall, fire behavior is characterized by creeping along the ground, and then becoming more active when it reaches the Ponderosa pine and mixed conifer that grows in the canyons and draws. Smoke continues to be visible from the Weimer Fire.
Pierce Mountain Fire – Located near the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests and Ft. Apache Indian Reservation boundary, approximately 8 miles southwest of Vernon. Size Estimate - 180 acres
This fire has slowly crept down the east and northeast side of Pierce Mountain, and is entering the Ponderosa pine/mixed conifer fuels. Yesterday, fire managers conducted burnout operations on about 15 acres in order to prevent the fire advancing towards Los Burros Trail and Forest Road 9835. The burnout operations were successful at holding the fire south of Los Burros Trail east of Pierce Spring, and west of Forest Road 9835.
Fort Apache Indian Reservation Fire Activity:
West Bull Flats Fire - located on the Fort Apache Indian Reservation, about 13 miles southwest of Heber. Size Estimate – 125 acres
This fire is burning below the Rim, and is putting up smoke that is visible from the Heber and Overgaard areas. No private property or structures are threatened.
Apache National Forest Fire Activity:
Wildcat Fire - located about six miles southwest of Buffalo Crossing, by Wildcat Point.
Size Estimate - 650 acres
Forest Road 25 is open, although the area immediately around the Wildcat Fire remains closed to public entry in order to provide for firefighter and public safety. May still see some smoke from the interior parts of the fire where unburned islands of fuel remain, although fire behavior is mostly creeping and smoldering.
Wallow Fire – located about nine miles southwest of the Hannigan Meadow area. Size Estimate – 150 acres
This fire continues burning in the Bear Wallow Wilderness, and smoke may be visible from far eastern portions of the Fort Apache and San Carlos Indian Reservations, and from the Bear Wallow Wilderness. Fire behavior is characterized by creeping along the ground as it burns through the understory.
Home Fire - Located about six miles southeast of Big Lake. Size Estimate – 140 acres
Smoke is visible from the Big Lake area, and fire managers expect this fire to continue slowly creeping.
Information on all fire activities in southern Apache and Navajo counties is available by dialing ‘593’ from a Frontier network land line, by dialing (star) ‘*593’ from any Cellular One of NE AZ cell phone, or by dialing (928) 333-3412 from any locations. This recorded fire information is updated daily.
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Date: August 17, 2009
FIRE MANAGEMENT ON KAIBAB NATIONAL FOREST REQUIRES SUSPENSION OF RECREATION AT WHITE HORSE LAKE
For Immediate Release Aug. 17, 2009
Punky Moore 928-635-5653
Recreation on White Horse Lake Suspended
WILLIAMS, Ariz. – As a safety precaution, Kaibab National Forest officials announce that recreation activities on White Horse Lake, 12 miles southeast of Williams, are suspended until further notice. This suspension is necessary due to fire management activities on the Taylor Fire southeast of the lake. Helicopters are dipping water out of the lake to assist with operations on the Taylor Fire.
“Firefighter and public safety remains our highest priority and these measures are necessary to maintain safe operations,” said Martie Schramm, Williams District Ranger. “We appreciate the publics’ assistance with this restriction until it is safe to resume recreation on the lake.”
The campground remains open; however, the public is advised to use caution and be aware of fire management activities in the area. As fire activity continues, it may be necessary to implement additional closures.
For more information, please contact Punky Moore (928-635-5653).
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Date: August 4, 2009
PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST CANCEL PLANS FOR PILE BURNING
For Immediate Release July 31, 2009 Contact: Sean West (928) 777-5667
(928) 925-6393
THIS PLAN HAS BEEN CANCELLED DUE TO HOT, DRY WEATHER
PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST PLANS TO BURN SLASH PILES
PRESCOTT, AZ (July 31, 2009) – Fire managers plan to burn 90 acres of accumulated slash piles on Monday, August 3rd through Friday, August 7th ; weather permitting. The piles are located in Ponderosa Park.
Specific days to burn are determined by current and expected weather patterns. These piles will be monitored and allowed to completely burn themselves out. Smoke may be visible in the surrounding area.
These projects are part of an ongoing effort to improve forest health by reintroducing fire into the ecosystem, reducing hazardous fuels, and creating defensible space around residential and high use areas.
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Date: July 28, 2009
PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST CANCELS PLANS TO BURN SOUTH OF MINGUS MOUNTAIN
UPDATE: Due to forecasted weather conditions received late this afternoon (7/28), the burn has been CANCELLED.
For Immediate Release July 28, 2009
Contact: Debbie Maneely (928)443-8130
Mingus Mountain Prescribed Burn – July 29-31
PRESCOTT, AZ (July 28, 2009) - Fire officials plan to burn approximately 600 acres on Wednesday, July 29 through Friday, July 31; weather conditions permitting. The burn will take place south of Mingus Mountain and east of Kendall Peak (T15N, R2E, S35).
Smoke may be visible in the surrounding area. No road closures are expected, but fire officials ask that visitors be cautious when driving in these areas. Signs will be posted warning drivers of fire activity.
Prescribed burns help remove dead vegetation, invigorate the plant and animal communities, promote a healthy watershed and will help return fire to its natural role in the ecosystem. These burns are part of an ongoing fuels reduction project to reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfire on the Prescott National Forest.
As always, public and firefighter safety is our top priority. For current information on prescribed burns visit http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott (http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott ) or call the Prescott National Forest fire information line at 928-777-5799.
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Date: July 23, 2009
PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST CONTINUING PLANNED FIRE TO "CLEAN UP" SLASH PILES
For Immediate Release July 23, 2009
Contact: Debbie Maneely (928) 443-8130
Prescott National Forest Plans to Burn Slash Piles
PRESCOTT, AZ (July 23, 2009) - Fire managers plan to burn 100 acres of accumulated slash piles on Monday, July 27 through Friday, July 31; weather conditions permitting. The piles are located in Ponderosa Park.
Specific days to burn are determined by current and expected weather patterns. These piles will be monitored and allowed to completely burn themselves out. Smoke may be visible in the surrounding area.
These projects are part of an ongoing effort to improve forest health by reintroducing fire into the ecosystem, reducing hazardous fuels, and creating defensible space around residential and high use areas.
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Date: July 2, 2009
PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST DROPS FIRE RESTRICTIONS FOR WEST ZONE FOR THE 4TH
For Immediate Release July 02, 2009 Contact: Sean West (928) 777-5667, (928) 925-6393
PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST LIFTING STAGE I FIRE RESTRICTIONS FOR THE WEST ZONE PORTIONS OF THE FOREST
PRESCOTT, AZ (July 02, 2009) – Prescott National Forest fire officials will be rescinding the Stage 1 Fire Restrictions for the West Zone of the Prescott National Forest effective immediately. These areas include all National Forest Lands on the Chino and Bradshaw Ranger Districts, which include Crown King. Stage 1 Fire Restrictions will remain in place for the East Zone of the Prescott National Forest which includes the Verde District. While recent isolated rainfall has brought much needed temporary relief to the area, overall conditions over the East Zone of the forest remain dry. As always, our number one priority with the implementation of fire restrictions is for the protection of life, property, and natural resource values.
The following fire restrictions are in effect for the East Zone of the Prescott National Forest:
• Campfires, charcoal grills, and stove fires (wood, charcoal, and coal burning) are prohibited on the Verde Ranger District of the Prescott National Forest which include all lands, roads, and trails; except within developed recreation sites where grills and campfire rings are provided.
• Pressurized liquid or gas stoves, lanterns and heaters meeting safety specifications are allowed.
• Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three (3) feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable material.
Campfire and smoking restrictions on the Verde Ranger District will remain in effect until forest officials determine that conditions have changed sufficiently to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfire. The Red Rock Ranger District on the Coconino National Forest in conjunction with the Verde Ranger District on the Prescott National Forest will remain in Stage 1 Fire Restrictions. Violation of these prohibitions is punishable by a fine of not more than $5,000 for an individual or $10,000 for an organization, or imprisonment of not more than six (6) months, or both. The public is reminded that fireworks are always prohibited on all national forest lands.
For current information on fire restrictions, closures or wildfires on the Prescott National Forest, call 928-777-5799. For further information about fire restrictions on public lands in Arizona and New Mexico, call toll free 1-877-864-6985.
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Date: June 30, 2009
TONTO NATIONAL FOREST LIFTS FIRE RESTRICTIONS IN TIME FOR 4TH OF JULY WEEKEND
For Immediate Release Contact: Fire Information Officer
June 29,2009 602-225-1042
Tonto National Forest lifts fire restrictions
PHOENIX (June 29, 2009) – All campfire and smoking restrictions affecting the Tonto National Forest will be lifted, effective Wednesday, July 1, 8 a.m.
The fire restrictions, which covered the entire forest, are no longer needed because fire danger has been reduced by increased moisture and humidity from the annual monsoon season. These wetter conditions prompted officials to lift forest fire restrictions.
“Although campfires and smoking will now be allowed throughout the forest, visitors should properly extinguish cigarettes in ashtrays, and ashes in a campfire ring should be cold enough to touch before they are left,” said Tonto NF Fire Staff Officer Clay Templin. “Campfires should be put out by drowning with water and stirring with a shovel to ensure the fire is cold.”
Forest Supervisor Gene Blankenbaker extended special thanks to the visiting public during the fire restrictions which began May 14. “We want to thank everyone for their patience and understanding while we had to restrict access and activities on the Tonto during this fire season. We appreciate our visitors’ support of the restrictions.”
For more information, visit the Tonto website at www.fs.fed.us/r3/tonto or call 602.225.5200.
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Date: June 29, 2009
KAIBAB NATIONAL FOREST CONTINUES WITH BURN PLANS SOUTH OF JACOB LAKE
For Immediate Release June 29, 2009
Contact: Jackie Banks 928-635-8314
North Kaibab Ranger District to Start Road Hollow Prescribed Burn Tomorrow
FREDONIA, Ariz. – Kaibab National Forest fire managers plan to begin the Road Hollow Prescribed Burn on the North Kaibab Ranger District tomorrow. The project area consists of two units. The first unit is 1,696 acres and the second is 456 acres for a total of 2,152 acres.
The Road Hollow Prescribed Burn is located south of Jacob Lake, four miles west of the Dry Park area and adjacent to Forest Road 22.
Objectives of the burn include reducing hazardous fuels, decreasing fire risk and improving forest health. Fire managers plan to use both hand (drip torches) and aerial (helicopter) ignitions to light the two units.
Smoke will be heaviest the day of the burn and will linger for several days after ignition is complete. Fire managers said they anticipate smoke impacts along Forest Road 22 and within nearby areas. Smoke will likely be visible from Fredonia, Kanab, DeMotte Park and western areas of the south rim of Grand Canyon National Park.
Fire managers said they do not anticipate road closures. However, visitors should check with the North Kaibab Ranger District at (928) 643-7395 for the status of the area. Forest officials recommend not camping in the area of the Road Hollow burn (Township 35N, Range 1E, Sections 2-6).
Fire managers had planned to ignite the Road Hollow Prescribed Burn at various times in the recent past. However, weather conditions or other factors have postponed the burn until now. Given the unusually wet May and June, fire managers said conditions on the Kaibab Plateau are much more springlike than they normally are at this time of year and are appropriate for proceeding with the burn.
Smoke is an inevitable part of any prescribed burn. However, fire managers work closely with the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality while planning and implementing projects in an effort to minimize the impact prescribed burns have on local communities.
For additional information, please contact the North Kaibab Ranger District at (928) 643-7395.
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Date: June 29, 2009
KAIBAB NATIONAL FOREST PLAN PRESCRIBED BURN EAST OF TUSAYAN
For Immediate Release June 29, 2009
Contact: Punky Moore 928-635-5653
Kaibab National Forest to Implement Burns on Tusayan Ranger District
TUSAYAN, Ariz. – Depending on upcoming weather this week, fire managers on the Kaibab National Forest are preparing to burn east of the Tusayan Ranger Station on the Tusayan East Project. If conditions are appropriate, managers will request approval to burn mid-week over two days for approximately 80 acres each day. Officials will not burn over the holiday weekend. Fire personnel plan to resume broadcast burning on the project next week, depending on weather and fuels.
Work has already been completed to reinforce containment lines around the unit. Personnel will monitor the burns for fire spread and smoke production. Smoke may be visible in Tusayan and along Highway 64 but should not impact visitors to Grand Canyon National Park. These projects are part of an ongoing effort to ensure that future fires in the area remain at a lower level of intensity, thereby protecting the community and improving forest health.
Fire managers work closely with Arizona Department of Environmental Quality during the implementation of these projects. In our efforts to protect the community from the threat of future large fires, we appreciate the community’s tolerance of some smoke during our prescribed burns.
For more information, please contact Punky Moore (928-635-5653).
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Date: June 29, 2009
PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST PROCEDING WITH PRESCRIBED BURN PROJECT NEAR CAMP WOOD
For Immediate Release June 26, 2009
Contact: Debbie Maneely (928)443-8130
Jaime Gamboa (928)443-5651
Camp Wood Prescribed Burn – June 28 through July 3
PRESCOTT, AZ (June 26, 2009) - Fire officials plan to burn approximately 4000 acres on Sunday, June 28 through Friday, July 3; weather conditions permitting. The burn will take place near Camp Wood; West of FS Road 705 and South of County Road 68 (T16N, R6W, S8, 9, 16 & 17).
The recent Hyde Fire near Camp Wood displayed perfect fire behavior and minimal growth that is desired for a prescribed burn. There are a variety of vegetation types within the forest and each type required specific treatments to reduce hazardous fuels. Current weather and fuel conditions in the area will allow for safe and successful burning operations. Detailed planning and analysis were part of developing a burn plan providing guidelines for acceptable fire behavior and contingency plans for fire control; and to ensure that enough resources are on hand to manage any contingency.
Smoke may be visible for numerous days in the surrounding areas. No road closures are expected, but fire officials ask that visitors be cautious when driving in these areas. Signs will be posted warning drivers of fire activity.
Prescribed burns help remove dead vegetation, invigorate the plant and animal communities, promote a healthy watershed and will help return fire to its natural role in the ecosystem. These burns are part of an ongoing fuels reduction project to reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfire on the Prescott National Forest.
As always, public and firefighter safety is our top priority. For current information on prescribed burns visit http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott (http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott ) or call the Prescott National Forest fire information line at 928-777-5799.
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Date: June 26, 2009
MOHAVE COUNTY STATE TRUST LANDS ADDED TO RESTRICTIONS LIST
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 26, 2009
FOR MORE INFORMATION: Cam Hunter 602-771-1416 or cell 602-463-8291
Judy Wood 520-628-5480 x202 or cell 602-689-5658
FIRE RESTRICTIONS IN EFFECT ON STATE TRUST LANDS
PHOENIX, ARIZONA – The Office of the State Forester will implement fire and smoking restrictions starting at 12:00 PM on Thursday, June 25th, 2009, in cooperation with the Bureau of Land Management, US Fish and Wildlife, the Bureau of Indian Affairs and other state, Federal and local government entities.
The restrictions have become necessary due to developing hot, dry weather along with annual plant growth which contributes to an increasing fire danger. These conditions greatly increase the risk of major wildfires.
The restrictions will apply to all State Trust Lands within Mohave County. The restrictions will remain in effect until July 31, 2009 or until further notice.
The restrictions are as follows:
• Building, maintaining, or using a fire, campfire, or charcoal burning device except as specifically permitted by the State Forester on a case by case basis is prohibited. Petroleum fueled stoves, lanterns, or heating devices are exempt from these restrictions.
• Using fireworks as defined in ARS § 36-1601 is prohibited.
• Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle, building, developed campground, or stopped in an area at least 10 feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials is prohibited.
• Welding or operating acetylene or other torch with an open flame is prohibited.
These restrictions apply to all permits and leases issued by the State Land Department and holders of hunting and fishing licenses. Any state, federal, or local fire or law enforcement officer, or member of an organized firefighting force is exempt from these prohibitions while in the performance of their official firefighting duties.
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Date: June 24, 2009
BLM SETS RESTRICTIONS FOR KINGMAN FIELD OFFICE OF THE COLORADO RIVER DISTRICT - HERE'S THE OFFICIAL ORDER
FIRE PREVENTION ORDER NUMBER AZ-310-09-01
FIRE RESTRICTIONS DUE TO FIRE DANGER
BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT,
COLORADO RIVER DISTRICT
KINGMAN FIELD OFFICE
Pursuant to 43 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 9212.2, because of fire hazard conditions, the following acts are prohibited on
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) administered land in Arizona for the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) administered public lands within the jurisdiction of the Kingman Field Office of the Colorado River District until further notice. This includes BLM administered public land in portions of Mohave, Yavapai and La Paz Counties in Arizona. .
PROHIBITIONS:
1. Open campfires, charcoal grills, and stove fires.
2. Smoking.
3. Use of fireworks, flares, or other incendiary devices.
4. Welding or the use of any torch or metal cutting implement.
The restrictions are necessary due to high fire danger from increased hot and dry weather conditions.
EXEMPTIONS:
I. Campfires and charcoal grills are permitted in developed recreation sites or improved sites where agency-built fire rings or grills are provided.
2. Smoking is restricted to enclosed buildings, within an enclosed vehicle and on a paved or surface roads, within a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least six feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable material.
3. The use of petroleum-fueled stoves, lanterns, or heating devices are allowed provided such devices meet the fire underwriter's specifications for safety.
The following persons are exempt from this order:
I. Persons with a permit specifically authorizing the prohibited act or omission.
2. Any Federal, State or Local Officer or member of an organized fire fighting force in the performance of an official duty. 3. Resident owners and lessees of land and holders of recreational special use authorizations, within the restricted area are exempt from Restriction No. 1 above, provided such fires are within a permanent structure.
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Date: June 23, 2009
GRAND CANYON PRESCRIBED BURN PLANNED FOR SOUTH RIM
For Immediate Release June 23, 2009
Contact(s): Maureen Oltrogge, 928-638-7779
Shannan Marcak, 928-638-7958
Grand Canyon Fire Managers to Initiate Prescribed Burn on South Rim
Grand Canyon, AZ. – Grand Canyon National Park expects to implement the Moqui prescribed fire project within the next 48 hours. Based on current and predicted environmental conditions, fire managers have determined that conditions are suitable to obtain desired resource objectives.
Prescribed fires are used by fire managers as a tool to achieve defined resource objectives and to reduce dangerous accumulations of fuels which increase the potential for wildland fire hazards. The resource objectives of this prescribed fire are to use fire to decrease risks to life, property and resources by reducing accumulations of forest fuels, and to maintain fire in a fire-dependent ecosystem.
The portion of the Moqui burn unit that is to be treated is 250 acres in size and starts at the south boundary of Grand Canyon National Park in the immediate vicinity of the South Entrance Station. It then runs north along the west side of Hwy 64 for approximately 2 miles. The Moqui burn unit is bordered on the west by the Kaibab National Forest boundary and on the north by the Quarry burn unit. This burn unit contains ponderosa pine and pinyon/juniper stands as well as grass and brush. The Moqui unit last burned in 1996.
The Moqui unit is the final of three units that fire managers intended to treat this spring. The Picnic and Quarry units were treated in May 2009, but unseasonable precipitation kept fire managers from implementing the Moqui unit.
The Arizona Trail runs through portions of this burn unit. During the prescribed fire, the portion of the trail that crosses the unit will be closed. Signs will be posted on the trail where it enters the burn units advising trail users of the fire activity and providing alternate routes.
During these prescribed fires, smoke impacts are likely to occur on Hwy 64 between the park entrance and Grand Canyon Village. Fire activity, including personnel and equipment may also be visible along this road. Signs will be posted advising visitors and motorists of possible smoke impacts.
Coordination with the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality; Kaibab National Forest, Tusayan District; and Arizona Public Service is already occurring.
For information on plans for South Rim prescribed fires, please call 928-638-7958 or 928-638-7779. To learn more about fire management in Grand Canyon National Park, visit the park’s web site at www.nps.gov/grca/parkmgmt/firemanagement.htm.
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Date: June 16, 2009
PRESCRIBED BURN SCHEDULED AT CORONADO MEMORIAL
For Immediate Release June 15, 2009
Contact: Kym Hall, Superintendent
Coronado National Memorial and the fire crew from Saguaro National Park plan to conduct a prescribed burn in the grasslands near the entrance to the park on Wednesday, June 17, 2009. The visitor center and all trails will remain open.
This prescribed fire project is part of an experiment to study methods of control for Lehmann Lovegrass, an exotic African grass that has invaded large portions of southern Arizona. Approximately 30 acres will be treated. The burn is expected to last one day.
Prescribed fires are carefully conducted under identified and approved prescription conditions. The prescribed burn will take place only if weather conditions allow. Wind, temperature, relative humidity, and atmospheric pressure will be monitored to ensure safe and effective prescribed fire operations. The burn will be closely coordinated with weather forecasters and air quality managers.
If the approved prescription conditions do not exist on a specific day, the planned burn will be postponed. For this reason, it is impossible to accurately predict the exact day this prescribed fire will be conducted.
It is anticipated that Coronado National Memorial and Montezuma Canyon Road (FR 61) will remain OPEN during the burn. Smoke from the fire may be heavy at times and will be visible from the surrounding region.
For additional information about this fire project, call Kym Hall at 520-366-5515 ext. 21.
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Date: June 12, 2009
PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST CONTINUES WITH PLANNED BURN NEAR CAMP WOOD
For Immediate Release June 12, 2009
Contact: Debbie Maneely (928)443-8130
Jaime Gamboa (928)777-5651
Camp Wood Prescribed Burn – June 16-19
PRESCOTT, AZ (June 12, 2009) - Fire officials plan to burn approximately 4000 acres on Tuesday, June 16 through Friday, June 19; weather conditions permitting. The burn will take place near Camp Wood; West of FS Road 705 and South of County Road 68 (T16N, R6W, S8, 9, 16 & 17).
The recent Hyde Fire near Camp Wood, which was managed for resource improvement, displayed desired fire behavior and growth rates in the chaparral and other vegetation types of the fire. Our fuels reduction and resource management objectives of “creation of a healthier fire adapted ecosystem by providing a wide variety of height, age and mix of vegetation in the chaparral” for the Hyde Fire were well met. Current weather and fuel conditions in the area will allow for similar successful prescribed burning operations and outcomes in the targeted chaparral stands. Detailed planning and analysis were part of developing a burn plan providing guidelines for acceptable fire behavior and contingency plans for fire control; and to ensure that adequate resources are on hand to manage any contingency.
Smoke may be visible for numerous days in the surrounding areas. No road closures are expected, but fire officials ask that visitors be cautious when driving in these areas. Signs will be posted warning drivers of fire activity.
Prescribed burns help remove dead vegetation, invigorate the plant and animal communities, promote a healthy watershed and will help return fire to its natural role in the ecosystem. These burns are part of an ongoing fuels reduction project to reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfire on the Prescott National Forest.
As always, public and firefighter safety is our top priority. For current information on prescribed burns visit http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott (http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott ) or call the Prescott National Forest fire information line at 928-777-5799.
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Date: June 1, 2009
LIGHTNING FIRES ON KAIBAB NATIONAL FOREST ALLOW FOR CAREFUL MANAGEMENT
For Immediate Release May 29, 2009
CONTACT: Punky Moore 928-635-5653
Lightning Starts Fires on Kaibab National Forest
WILLIAMS, Ariz. – Over the past week, many fires have been started on the forest by lightning. Out of the numerous starts, two new fires have emerged on the Tusayan Ranger District that are being managed for resource benefits. The Ruby Fire (8 ½ acres) is about seven miles southeast of Tusayan and the Rain Fire (3 acres) is directly west of the Tusayan airport.
The current moist weather pattern has moderated fire growth potential across the forest and has provided forest officials an opportunity to use these fires to achieve specific resource management objectives.
The Rain Fire started in an area already planned for fuels reduction work, called the Airport Hazardous Fuels Reduction Project. This project is a continuation of the district’s wildland urban interface planning process to protect the community from severe wildland fires. The lightning started fire inside the project area provides the opportunity for managers to proceed with this much-needed hazardous fuels reduction work already outlined in the project.
However, with its close proximity to the Tusayan airport, smoke management is a primary concern on the Rain Fire. District personnel are working closely with the FAA to monitor smoke dispersal so that aviation operations are not hampered. If smoke becomes a problem, managers will take actions to slow or stop fire spread to reduce impacts to the airport and community.
On the other hand, the Ruby Fire southeast of Tusayan is in an ideal location to spread naturally across this fire-adapted ecosystem. It is north of Forest Road 302 near the West Fire that burned in 2006 and the Scott Prescribed Burn Project, treated in 2002 and 2006. These previous burns are east of the fire. Personnel will monitor the fire’s progression as it continues to move north and west and take actions when necessary to maintain the fire within acceptable boundaries.
A weather trend toward slightly drier conditions is expected over the next week. Fire activity will likely increase during this weather pattern.
For additional information, please contact Punky Moore, Fire Information Officer, (928-635-5653).
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Date: May 29, 2009
PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST MAINTAINING STAGE I FIRE RESTRICTIONS
For Immediate Release May 29, 2009 Contact: Sean West (928) 925-6393
PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST STAGE I FIRE RESTRICTIONS REMINDER
PRESCOTT, AZ (May 29, 2009) – Prescott National Forest fire officials would like to remind the community and forest visitors that Stage 1 Fire Restrictions remain in effect. While recent isolated rainfall has brought much needed temporary relief to the area, overall conditions across the forest remain unseasonably dry. As the month of June approaches, weather predictions indicate a return to hot and dry conditions. As always, our number one priority with the implementation of fire restrictions is for the protection of life, property, and natural resource values.
The following fire restrictions are in effect for the entire Prescott National Forest:
• Campfires, charcoal grills, and stove fires (wood, charcoal, and coal burning) are prohibited on all Prescott National Forest lands, roads, and trails; except within developed recreation sites where grills and campfire rings are provided.
• Pressurized liquid or gas stoves, lanterns and heaters meeting safety specifications are allowed.
• Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three (3) feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable material.
• Campfires are not allowed at the designated dispersed sites within the Prescott Basin. Metal posts identify designated dispersed sites with a number.
Campfire and smoking restrictions will remain in effect until forest officials determine that conditions have changed sufficiently to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfire. Violation of these prohibitions is punishable by a fine of not more than $5,000 for an individual or $10,000 for an organization, or imprisonment of not more than six (6) months, or both. The public is reminded that fireworks are always prohibited on all national forest lands.
For current information on fire restrictions, closures or wildfires on the Prescott National Forest, call 928-777-5799. For further information about fire restrictions on public lands in Arizona and New Mexico, call toll free 1-877-864-6985.
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Date: May 26, 2009
PRESCRIBED BURN PLANNED FOR CORONADO NATIONAL MONUMENT
CORONADO NATIONAL MEMORIAL – NEWS RELEASE
For Immediate Release: May 26, 2009
Contact: Kym Hall, Superintendent
Coronado National Memorial and the fire crew from Saguaro National Park plan to conduct a prescribed burn south of the visitor center on Wednesday, May 27, 2009. The visitor center will remain open; however the picnic area will be closed during the burn period.
The prescribed burn is part of a strategy to create fuelbreaks in the park that will help make a wildfire easier to control if one should occur. The burn is designed to reduce the buildup of vegetation around the visitor center and picnic area. Approximately 15 acres will be treated. The burn is expected to last approximately one day.
Prescribed fires are carefully conducted under identified and approved prescription conditions. The prescribed burn will take place only if weather conditions allow. Wind, temperature, relative humidity, and atmospheric pressure will be monitored to ensure safe and effective prescribed fire operations. The burn will be closely coordinated with weather forecasters and air quality managers.
If the approved prescription conditions do not exist on a specific day, the planned burn will be postponed. For this reason, it is impossible to accurately predict the exact day this prescribed fire will be conducted.
It is anticipated that Coronado National Memorial and Montezuma Canyon Road (FR 61) will remain OPEN during the burn. Smoke from the fire may be heavy at times and will be visible from the surrounding region.
For additional information about this fire project, call Kym Hall at 520-366-5515 ext. 21.
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Date: May 19, 2009
KAIBAB PLANS ANOTHER BURN ON TUSAYAN RANGER DISTRICT
For Immediate Release May 19, 2009
Punky Moore 928-635-5653
Kaibab National Forest to Implement Burns on Tusayan Ranger District
TUSAYAN, Ariz. – Depending on forecasted weather for the area, fire managers on the Kaibab National Forest are preparing to burn east of the Tusayan Ranger Station and south of the Tusayan airport later this week. Favorable conditions for implementing the burns will be cooler temperatures, higher humidity and some precipitation.
If conditions are appropriate, managers will request approval to burn approximately 30 to 50 acres east of Tusayan Ranger District near Long Jim trick tank. This work will reinforce containment lines for a later broadcast burn on the Tusayan East prescribed burn project. In addition, if the area receives some precipitation, managers will burn slash piles south of the Tusayan airport. Personnel will implement these projects upon approval from Arizona Department of Environmental Quality.
Personnel will monitor the burns for fire spread and smoke production. Smoke may be visible in Tusayan and along Highway 64 but should not impact visitors to Grand Canyon National Park. These projects are part of an ongoing effort to ensure that future fires in the area remain at a lower level of intensity, thereby protecting the community and improving forest health.
Fire managers work closely with Arizona Department of Environmental Quality during the implementation of these projects. In our efforts to protect the community from the threat of future large fires, we appreciate the community’s tolerance of some smoke during our prescribed burns.
For more information, please contact Punky Moore (928-635-5653).
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Date: May 19, 2009
COCONINO NATIONAL FOREST ANNOUNCES SOME RESTRICTIONS; KAIBAB URGES SAFETY
For Immediate Release May 18, 2009
Contact: Karen Malis-Clark (Coconino)928-527-3492
Punky Moore (Kaibab)928-635-5653
Campfire safety urged this Memorial Day weekend
Fire Restrictions on Red Rock Ranger District
Campfire and smoking restrictions will go into effect on the Red Rock District of the Coconino National Forest beginning this Thursday, May 21, at 8:00 a.m. The restrictions are consistent with those on the Prescott National Forest and apply to most of the Red Rock Ranger District, including the national forest land in the Verde Valley on the east side of the Verde River, Oak Creek Canyon, lower Sycamore Canyon, lower West Clear Creek, Fossil Creek and Bullpen.
The area southeast of Interstate 17, east of Forest Road 618, and north of Forest Road 214 is not included. These “Stage I” restrictions mean:
• Campfires, charcoal grills, and stove fires (wood, charcoal, and coal burning) are prohibited on National Forest lands, roads, and trails; except within developed recreation sites where grills and campfire rings are provided.
• Pressurized liquid or gas stoves, lanterns and heaters meeting safety specifications are allowed.
• Smoking is prohibited, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three (3) feet in diameter that is cleared of all flammable material.
Campfires are allowed on the rest of the Coconino National Forest “above the rim,” and on the Kaibab National Forest this weekend. A few campfire safety reminders include:
• Use existing campfire rings to minimize impacts to the soil. Make a fire only if you have a shovel and sufficient water to put it out. Never leave your campfire unattended.
• Avoid making a campfire during the windy part of the day. Winds usually diminish at night when a campfire is welcome. Keep your campfire as small as practical.
• To make sure your campfire is out, drown with water and stir with dirt, making sure all burned materials are extinguished. Feel with your hand to make sure it’s out cold.
Fire managers continue to evaluate weather and fuel conditions and will re-examine the need for fire restrictions on a weekly basis. For fire restrictions on public lands in Arizona, visit http://www.publiclands.org/firenews/AZ.php (http://www.publiclands.org/firenews/AZ.php ), or call toll free 1-877-864-6985.
Most Forest Service offices will be closed on Monday, May 25, in observance of the Memorial Day holiday. The Red Rock Visitor Station south of Sedona and Williams Visitor Center will be open.
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Date: May 18, 2009
KAIBAB NATIONAL FOREST SAYS "NO RESTRICTIONS, BUT BE CAREFUL..."
For Immediate Release May 18, 2009
Contact: Punky Moore 928-635-5653
Forest Service Urges Caution With Fire Over Memorial Day Weekend
WILLIAMS, Ariz. – Due to forecasted weather conditions and the low occurrence of forest fires, managers have decided that the Kaibab National Forest will not have fire restrictions in place over the Memorial Day weekend. However, forest managers urge vigilance with camp fires, stoves, charcoal grills, smoking and other devices and activities that could cause wildfires.
“People should come and enjoy the Kaibab National Forest over the holiday weekend, but they should remember that conditions are dry and embers from unattended campfires can ignite and spread rapidly,” said Dave Mertz, fire staff officer for the Kaibab National Forest. “Everyone has the responsibility to prevent human-caused wildfires.”
Forest Service fire crews are geared up and ready to respond to any fires, whether human or naturally-caused. Additional patrols will also be in the forests over the holiday weekend to inform visitors and enforce rules.
Forest fire managers said there are many things people can do to ensure a safe weekend. Please always bring along enough water to put it out and a shovel to stir the ashes. Another tip is to always build camp fires in appropriate locations. In general, forest visitors should use existing camp fire rings to minimize impacts to the area and to the soil.
“It is critical that a camp fire never be left unattended,” Mertz said. “Make sure that your fire is fully out before leaving the area. It should be cold to the touch.”
Fire managers will continue to evaluate weather and fuel conditions on a regular basis and will re-examine the need for fire restrictions early next week.
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Date: May 18, 2009
GRAND CANYON - 2 BURNS DONE, 1 TO GO
Contact(s): Shannan Marcak
Phone number: 928-638-7958
Date: May 16, 2009
Update on Spring Prescribed Burns at Grand Canyon
Grand Canyon, AZ. -- Grand Canyon National Park has completed two of three South Rim prescribed fires planned for this spring.
Firefighters completed ignition of the 222 acre Picnic Prescribed Fire on Wednesday, May 13, and the 319 acre Quarry Prescribed Fire on Friday, May 15, 2009. Some fire activity and smoke may be present within the interior of the burn unit for several weeks, as logs and other heavy fuels continue to smolder. Firefighters will continue to patrol the area until the fires are completely out.
Ponderosa pine ecosystems have experienced lightning-caused fires for thousands of years. Burn scars indicate that fires occurred frequently in the Southwest, removing duff and litter from the forest floor. The absence of fire for nearly a century has caused unhealthy forest conditions, setting the stage for larger and more severe wildland fires. These management ignited prescribed fires have played an important role in reducing fuel accumulations such as pine needles, fallen branches, and shrubs while releasing soil nutrients, increasing habitat diversity, and creating a more sustainable ecosystem.
One additional burn, the Moqui Prescribed Fire is planned on the South Rim this spring. Fire ignition will only occur when environmental factors such as wind, temperature, and relative humidity are favorable. If the Moqui burn is initiated, fire managers plan to burn only the northern half of the unit, which includes approximately 240 acres. This would keep fire activity at least one half mile north of the South Entrance Station.
The entire Moqui burn unit is 743 acres in size and starts at the south boundary of Grand Canyon National Park in the immediate vicinity of the South Entrance Station. It then runs north along the west side of Hwy 64 for approximately 2 miles. The Moqui burn unit is bordered on the west by the Kaibab National Forest boundary and on the north by the Quarry burn unit. This burn unit contains ponderosa pine and pinyon/juniper stands as well as grass and brush. The Moqui unit last burned in 1996.
For information on plans for South Rim prescribed fires, please call 928-638-7958. To learn more about fire management in Grand Canyon National Park, visit the park’s web site at www.nps.gov/grca/parkmgmt/firemanagement.htm.
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Date: May 15, 2009
ANOTHER BURN PROJECT PLANNED BY KAIBAB NATIONAL FOREST
For Immediate Release May 15, 2009
Punky Moore 928-635-5653
Kaibab National Forest to Implement Road Hollow Burn
FREDONIA, Ariz. - Fire managers with the Kaibab National Forest plan to implement the Road Hollow prescribed burn on the North Kaibab Ranger District within the next two weeks. The project area consists of two units (Unit A – 1,696 acres and Unit D – 456 acres), located south of Jacob Lake, four miles west of the Dry Park Area and adjacent to Forest Road 22.
The objectives of the burn are reducing hazardous fuels, decreasing fire risk and improving forest health. When fuel and weather conditions are appropriate for the burn, fire personnel will use hand and aerial ignitions to light the units.
Smoke will be heaviest the day of the burn and will linger for several days after the burn is complete. Fire managers anticipate smoke impacts along Forest Road 22 and adjacent areas. Smoke may be visible from Fredonia, Kanab, Demotte Park and western areas of the south rim of Grand Canyon National Park. There are no anticipated road closures, but users should check with North Kaibab Ranger District (928-643-8100) for status of the area. Forest officials recommend not camping in the area of the Road Hollow burn, (Township 35 N, Range 1 E, Sections 2-6).
Fire managers work closely with the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality while planning and implementing projects in an effort to limit the impact prescribed burns have on the community. In our efforts to protect the community from the threat of large fires, we appreciate the community’s tolerance to smoke during the prescribed burning season.
For additional information, please contact Edward Hiatt, North Zone Fire Management Officer, (928-643-8101).
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Date: May 15, 2009
KAIBAB NATIONAL FOREST PLANS ANOTHER SPRING BURN
For Immediate Release May 15, 2009
Punky Moore 928-635-5653
Kaibab National Forest to Implement Road Hollow Burn
FREDONIA, Ariz. - Fire managers with the Kaibab National Forest plan to implement the Road Hollow prescribed burn on the North Kaibab Ranger District within the next two weeks. The project area consists of two units (Unit A – 1,696 acres and Unit D – 456 acres), located south of Jacob Lake, four miles west of the Dry Park Area and adjacent to Forest Road 22.
The objectives of the burn are reducing hazardous fuels, decreasing fire risk and improving forest health. When fuel and weather conditions are appropriate for the burn, fire personnel will use hand and aerial ignitions to light the units.
Smoke will be heaviest the day of the burn and will linger for several days after the burn is complete. Fire managers anticipate smoke impacts along Forest Road 22 and adjacent areas. Smoke may be visible from Fredonia, Kanab, Demotte Park and western areas of the south rim of Grand Canyon National Park. There are no anticipated road closures, but users should check with North Kaibab Ranger District (928-643-8100) for status of the area. Forest officials recommend not camping in the area of the Road Hollow burn, (Township 35 N, Range 1 E, Sections 2-6).
Fire managers work closely with the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality while planning and implementing projects in an effort to limit the impact prescribed burns have on the community. In our efforts to protect the community from the threat of large fires, we appreciate the community’s tolerance to smoke during the prescribed burning season.
For additional information, please contact Edward Hiatt, North Zone Fire Management Officer, (928-643-8101).
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Date: May 15, 2009
PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST ANNOUNCES RESTRICTIONS TO BEGIN MAY 21ST
For Immediate Release May 14, 2009 Contact: Sean West (928) 777-5667
(928) 925-6393
PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST ENTERS STAGE I FIRE RESTRICTIONS
PRESCOTT, AZ (May 14, 2009) – Campfire and smoking restrictions will go into effect on the Prescott National Forest beginning Thursday, May 21, at 8:00 a.m. Forest managers have determined that key trigger points have been reached to warrant taking these restrictive actions. These include increased forest visitor use, abandoned campfires, unseasonably dry fuels and rising temperatures.
The following fire restrictions will be in effect for the entire Prescott National Forest:
• Campfires, charcoal grills, and stove fires (wood, charcoal, and coal burning) are prohibited on all Prescott National Forest lands, roads, and trails; except within developed recreation sites where grills and campfire rings are provided.
• Pressurized liquid or gas stoves, lanterns and heaters meeting safety specifications are allowed.
• Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three (3) feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable material.
• Campfires are not allowed at the designated dispersed sites within the Prescott Basin. Metal posts identify designated dispersed sites with a number.
Campfire and smoking restrictions will remain in effect until forest officials determine that conditions have changed sufficiently to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfire. Violation of these prohibitions is punishable by a fine of not more than $5,000 for an individual or $10,000 for an organization, or imprisonment of not more than six (6) months, or both. The public is reminded that fireworks are always prohibited on all national forest lands.
For current information on fire restrictions, closures or wildfires on the Prescott National Forest, call 928-777-5799. For further information about fire restrictions on public lands in Arizona and New Mexico, call toll free 1-877-864-6985.
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Date: May 15, 2009
BLM SETS RESTRICTIONS FOR PINAL COUNTY IN GILA DISTRICT
For Immediate Release: May 14, 2009 SFO-09-08
Diane Drobka (Safford) 928-348-4403, Diane_Drobka@blm.gov
Kristen Lenhardt (Tucson)520-258-7266, Kristen_Lenhardt@blm.gov
BLM Imposes Fire Restrictions in Pinal County
Safford, Ariz. – As temperatures continue to top 100 degrees and no rain in sight, federal agencies are taking action to avoid catastrophic wildfires. The Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) Gila District, which includes two million acres of public lands in southeastern Arizona, is joining other agencies by issuing fire restrictions in Pinal County.
Due to extremely hazardous fire conditions, beginning Thursday, May 14, 2009, and until rescinded, the following are prohibited on public lands in Pinal County managed by the BLM Gila District’s Tucson and Safford field offices:
1. Building or using a fire, campfire, charcoal broiler, or wood stove except in developed camping and picnicking areas. However, the use of propane- and petroleum-fueled stoves, lanterns or heating devices is allowed beyond developed sites.
2. Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, in a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable material.
The following persons are exempt from the restrictions of this Fire Prevention Order:
1. Any federal, state, or local officer or member of an organized firefighting force in the performance of an official duty.
Violation of this Fire Prevention Order is punishable by a fine of not more than $1,000, or imprisonment of not more than 12 months, or both. (43 CFR 9212.4). Violators can also be held personally responsible to reimburse fire suppression costs. Fire restrictions will likely remain in effect until the summer monsoons provide enough moisture to grassland and forest vegetation.
Homeowners are encouraged to protect their property by maintaining “defensible space” around homes and outbuildings. To do so, clear flammable vegetation within 30 feet of structures. More tips can be found on the web at www.firewise.org. Stop by any BLM office for a free copy of “Living with Fire” to learn about providing a fire-safe zone around your home.
For additional information on fire restrictions in Arizona, call the Interagency Fire Hotline at 877-864-6985.
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Date: May 14, 2009
SAN CARLOS APACHE AGENCY POSTS RESTRICTIONS
Order
Class II-High Fires Restrictions
San Carlos Apache Tribe
EFFECTIVE: 05/13/09
Pursuant to, San Carlos Apache Tribal Ordinance No. 88-03, the following acts are
prohibited within the specified boundaries of the San Carlos Apache Indian Reservation:
...No restrictions in place for burning slash or organic matter however a burn
permit must be obtained from Tribal Forestry. A courtesy call to Phoenix Dispatch (928)
475-3096 or 1-866-746-6516 and the San Carlos Fire Department (928) 475-5022 or
(928) 475-2879 is required prior to ignition.
~ No camp fires on the *Nantac Rim area Butane only. San Carlos Lake and
Talkalai Lake areas can have camp fires within well establishedfi re ring.
*Point of Pines, Seneca Lake, Ten of Diamond ,Upper Cenga ,Shoe Tank, Dry Lake,
Highway Tank, Park Cabin, Anderson Flat, Mineral Smp area and anything above the
Rim.
These restrictions are being implemented for public safety and because of high fire
hazard conditions on the San Carlos Apache Indian Reservation. San Carlos Agency in
cooperation with the Branch of Law Enforcement Services will monitor and enforce these
restrictions.
For further information regarding these restrictions please call (928) 475-2326.
The San Carlos Agency has been delegated the authority to lessen or increase fire
restrictions in recreational areas and residential areas as conditions warrant.
These orders become effective at 10:00 a.m., 05/13/09, and will remain in place until rescinded or superceded.
Signed: Chairman, San Carlos Apache Tribe
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Date: May 14, 2009
GAME & FISH SETS RESTRICTIONS FOR NINE WILDLIFE AREAS
Habitats are dry and fire danger is high at some wildlife areas
PHOENIX – The Arizona Game and Fish Department is following the lead of other agencies and has implemented fire restrictions at some of its wildlife areas.
Wildlife officials said a good rule of thumb to follow is that if a state wildlife area is located within a national forest or other jurisdiction such as the BLM or State Land Department that has implemented fire restrictions, then expect Game and Fish to follow suit.
For the latest updates on fire restriction in Arizona, visit the Public Lands Information Center at http://www.publiclands.org/firenews/AZ.php. (http://www.publiclands.org/firenews/AZ.php. )
The Game and Fish Department has implemented restrictions at:
* Alamo Wildlife Area
* Aravaipa Wildlife Area
* Arlington Wildlife Area
* Base and Meridian Wildlife Area
* Powers Butte Wildlife Area
* Robbins Butte Wildlife Area
* Roosevelt Lake Wildlife Area
* Three Bar Wildlife Area
* Upper Verde Wildlife Area
In those affected wildlife areas, no open fires are allowed – including charcoal-burning barbecues. Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle, is prohibited. However, you can still us gas and propane stoves, lanterns or heating devices.
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Date: May 14, 2009
PRESCRIBED BURN CONTINUES AT GRAND CANYON
Grand Canyon National Park Prescribed Fire Update Wednesday, May 13, 2009, 3 p.m.
Wednesday’s Fire Activity: Firefighters completed ignition of the Picnic Prescribed Fire. Creeping fire activity was observed with some single and group torching. Smoke dispersal was good, with no impacts to park roads. Firefighters will continue to patrol the area until the fire is completely out.
Overview: The Picnic Prescribed Fire is one of three prescribed burns fire mangers at Grand Canyon National Park are planning on conducting this spring. The Picnic Prescribed Burn (approximately 220 acres) was last burned in 2000. The Quarry Prescribed Burn (approximately 320 acres) was last burned in 2000. The Moqui Prescribed Burn (approximately 240 acres) was last burned in 1996.
Location: Near Highway 64 between the South Rim Entrance Station and Grand Canyon Village
Strategy: Firefighters plan to begin ignition of the Quarry Prescribed Fire as soon as conditions are favorable, which could be as soon as Thursday, May 14. Once the Quarry prescribed burn is complete, fire managers will assess the smoke impacts from the Picnic and Quarry burns before making a final decision to ignite the Moqui Prescribed Burn. The Moqui Prescribed Fire will only be ignited if fire mangers determine smoke impacts from the Picnic and Quarry prescribed burns have not exceeded expectations. If the Moqui prescribed burn is initiated, fire managers plan to burn only the northern half of the unit. This would keep fire activity at least one half mile north of the South Entrance Station. All ignition will be conducted by hand using driptorches. Fire behavior, weather, and smoke will be monitored throughout the prescribed burns. Burning will only be conducted if appropriate weather and wind conditions exist.
Vegetation: Ponderosa pine, pinyon/juniper, grass and brush
Objectives: These prescribed burns are being conducted to decrease risks to life, property, and park resources by reducing hazardous fuels accumulations and to maintain the natural role of fire in a fire-dependent ecosystem.
Smoke: During these prescribed fires, temporary smoke impacts may occur on Highway 64 between the South Rim Entrance Station and Grand Canyon Village. If smoke drifts across the road temporary, intermittent delays along Highway 64 are possible. Please slow down, turn your headlights on, and watch out for fire personnel working along the road. Weather conditions should result in favorable smoke dispersal, however some residual smoke may be present for several days following the completion of these projects. Throughout the project, fire managers will work closely with the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality to manage smoke and reduce local impacts.
Park Status: Grand Canyon National Park remains open during the project. For your safety, please do not stop along the road in the vicinity of the burn.
The Arizona Trail runs through portions of these burn units. During the prescribed fires, these portions of the trail will be closed. Signs will be posted on the trail where it enters the burn units advising trail users of the fire activity and providing alternate routes.
Resources Assigned: Approximately 35 peronnel including 2 fire module crews, 4 engines, and various support staff. Additional contingency resources are available locally if needed.
Cooperators: Kaibab National Forest, Saguaro National Park, Flagstaff Fire Department, Highlands Fire Department, Summit Fire Department, and Pinewood Fire Department.
Information: For more on these fires, please, contact Fire Information Officer Michelle Fidler at 928-638-7821 or call 928-638-7819 for a recorded fire information message.
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Date: May 13, 2009
STATE TRUST LANDS IN MARICOPA, GILA, YUMA, LA PAZ, PINAL & YAVAPI COUNTIES ENTER RESTRICTIONS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 13, 2009
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Cam Hunter 602-771-1416 or cell 602-463-8291
Judy Wood 520-628-5480 x202 or cell 602-689-5658
FIRE RESTRICTIONS IN EFFECT ON STATE TRUST LANDS
PHOENIX, ARIZONA – The Office of the State Forester will implement fire and smoking restrictions starting at 12:00 PM on Thursday, May 14th, 2009, in cooperation with the Tonto National Forest, Bureau of Land Management, US Fish and Wildlife, the Bureau of Indian Affairs and other state, Federal and local government entities.
The restrictions have become necessary due to developing hot, dry weather along with annual plant growth which contributes to an increasing fire danger. These conditions greatly increase the risk of major wildfires.
The restrictions will apply to all State Trust Lands within Maricopa, Gila, Yuma, La Paz, Pinal and Yavapai Counties. The restrictions will remain in effect until July 31, 2009 or until further notice.
The restrictions are as follows:
• Building, maintaining, or using a fire, campfire, or charcoal burning device except as specifically permitted by the State Forester on a case by case basis is prohibited. Petroleum fueled stoves, lanterns, or heating devices are exempt from these restrictions.
• Using fireworks as defined in ARS § 36-1601 is prohibited.
• Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle, building, developed campground, or stopped in an area at least 10 feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials is prohibited.
• Welding or operating acetylene or other torch with an open flame is prohibited.
These restrictions apply to all permits and leases issued by the State Land Department and holders of hunting and fishing licenses. Any state, federal, or local fire or law enforcement officer, or member of an organized firefighting force is exempt from these prohibitions while in the performance of their official firefighting duties.
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Date: May 13, 2009
OFFICIAL ORDER FOR TONTO NATIONAL FOREST RESTRICTIONS
ORDER NO. 12-09-240
UNITED STATES FOREST SERVICE
TONTO NATIONAL FOREST
PROHIBITIONS
Pursuant to 16 USC 551 and 36 CFR 261.50 (a) and (b), the following acts and omissions are prohibited on the areas, roads, and trails as described in this Order, and as depicted on the attached map hereby incorporated into this Order as Exhibit A (the “restricted area”), all within the Tonto National Forest, Maricopa, Gila, Yavapai, and Pinal Counties, Arizona:
1. Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire, or wood or charcoal burning stove. 36 CFR 261.52(a)
Exceptions: a) Campfires will be allowed in fire grates provided by the Forest Service in developed recreation sites as listed in Exhibit B; b) Campfires will be allowed during low water levels on that portion of Roosevelt, Apache, Canyon, Saguaro and Bartlett Lakes between the high water mark and the water’s edge that is devoid of vegetation. Gas and propane stoves, lanterns or heating devices are permitted providing such devices meet the fire underwriter’s specifications for safety.
2. Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable material. 36 CFR 261.52(d)
3. Operating an internal combustion engine. 36 CFR 261.52(h)
Exceptions: a) Any motor vehicle, boat or other watercraft that complies with 36 CFR 261.52(j) (spark arrestors); and b) Any gas, diesel or propane powered generator that complies with 36 CFR 261.52(j) (spark arrestors).
4. Welding, or operating acetylene or other torch with open flame. 36 CFR 261.52(i)
5. Discharging a firearm, except while engaged in a lawful hunt pursuant to state, federal, or tribal laws and regulations. 36 CFR 261.58(m)
EXEMPTIONS
Pursuant to 36 CFR 261.50 (e), the following persons are exempt from this Order:
1. Persons with a permit specifically authorizing the otherwise prohibited act or omission.
2. Any Federal, State, or local officer, or member of any organized rescue or fire fighting force in the performance of an official duty.
3. Residence owners and lessees of land, and holders of Forest Service special use authorizations within the restricted area, are exempt from prohibition number 1 (building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire, or wood or charcoal burning stove) provided such fires are within a permanent structure (e.g. dwelling) and a spark arresting device is in use.
AREA DESCRIBED
All National Forest System lands, roads and trails within the Tonto National Forest, Maricopa, Gila, Yavapai, and Pinal Counties, Arizona (Exhibit A).
A list of developed recreation sites exempted from prohibition number 1 are attached hereto and made part of this Order as Exhibit B.
PURPOSE
The purpose of this Order is to provide for the public’s health and safety and to protect National Forest System lands, resources and facilities during the current period of severe fire danger.
IMPLEMENTATION
1. Prohibitions contained in this Order become effective at 8:00 AM on May 14 , 2009, and will remain in effect until rescinded or until August 30, 2009, whichever occurs first.
2. Violation of these prohibitions is punishable by a fine of not more than $5,000 for individuals and $10,000 for organizations, imprisonment for not more than six (6) months, or both. [16 USC 551, 18 USC 3559, 3571 and 3581].
Done this 9th day of May , 2009, at Phoenix, Arizona.
/s/Gene Blankenbaker
GENE BLANKENBAKER
Forest Supervisor
EXHIBIT B – DEVELOPED RECREATION SITES EXEMPT FROM PROHIBITION NO.1
Cave Creek Ranger District Bartlett Lake Recreation Area
Bartlett Lake Marina
Jojoba
Rattlesnake Cove
Rattlesnake Group
S B Cove
Bartlett Flat (below high waterline)
Yellow Cliffs
Lower Verde Recreation Area
Riverside Campground
Needle Rock Recreation Area
Needle Rock Campground
Box Bar
Seven Springs Recreation Area
CCC Campground
Seven Springs Picnic Area
Cave Creek Group Site
Horseshoe Lake Recreation Area
Horseshoe Lake Campground
Catfish Point
Ocotillo
Mesquite Campground
Globe Ranger District Pioneer Pass, in the Pinal Mtns
Sulphide Del Ray, in the Pinal Mtns
Kellner, in the Pinal Mtns
Ice House CCC, in the Pinal Mtns
Pinal, in the Pinal Mtns
Upper Pinal, in the Pinal Mtns
Warnica Group Site in the Pinal Mtns
Jones Water, off AZ Hwy 77 north of Globe
Oak Flat, off AZ Hwy 60 east of Superior
Timber Camp
Mesa Ranger District Saguaro Lake Recreation Area
Saguaro Lake Marina
Saguaro Del Norte
Butcher Jones
Canyon Lake Recreation Area
Canyon Lake Marina
Acacia
Boulder
Laguna
Palo Verde
Lower Salt Recreation Area
Developed recreation sites only
Payson Ranger District Houston Mesa Campground
Houston Mesa Horse Camp
Ponderosa Campground
Sharp Creek Campground
Upper Tonto Creek Campground
Christopher Creek Campground
Pleasant Valley Ranger District Falls Campground
Reynolds Creek Group Site Rose Creek Campground
Alderwood Campground
Sawmill Flats Campground
Haigler Canyon Campground
Colcord Ridge Campground
Airplane Flats Campground
Upper Canyon Campground
Valentine Ridge Campground
Tonto Basin Ranger District Apache Lake Recreation Areas.
Apache Lake Marina
Upper Burnt Corral
Lower Burnt Corral
Crabtree
Three-mile Wash
Davis Wash
Roosevelt Recreation Area
Vineyard
Frazier
Windy Hill Cholla Bachelor Cove
Grapevine
Cottonwood
Schoolhouse Campground
Indian Point Campground
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Date: May 13, 2009
GRAND CANYON PRESCRIBED BURNS CONTINUING
Grand Canyon National Park Prescribed Fire Update
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Overview: Firefighters are planning on conducting three prescribed burns at Grand Canyon National Park this spring. The Picnic Prescribed Burn (approximately 220 acres) was last burned in 2000. The Quarry Prescribed Burn (approximately 320 acres) was last burned in 2000. The Moqui Prescribed Burn (approximately 240 acres) was last burned in 1996.
Location: Near Highway 64 between the South Rim Entrance Station and Grand Canyon Village
Vegetation: Ponderosa pine, pinyon/juniper, grass and brush
Objectives: These prescribed burns are being conducted to decrease risks to life, property, and park resources by reducing hazardous fuels accumulations and to maintain the natural role of fire in a fire-dependent ecosystem.
Strategy: Firefighters may begin ignition as soon as Wednesday, May 13 and will continue through Saturday, May 16 if conditions are favorable. Fire managers plan to burn these units one at a time, starting with the Picnic prescribed burn, the farthest unit from the South Entrance Station and the town of Tusayan. After the Picnic burn is completed, fire managers will move on to the Quarry Prescribed Fire. The smoke impacts from both of these fires will be assessed before a final decision is made to initiate the Moqui Prescribed Fire. If the smoke impacts exceed fire managers’ expectations, the Moqui Prescribed Fire will not be initiated. Additionally, if the Moqui burn is initiated, fire managers plan to burn only the northern half of the unit. This would keep fire activity at least one half mile north of the South Entrance Station. All ignition will be conducted by hand using driptorches. Fire behavior, weather, and smoke will be monitored throughout the prescribed burns. Burning will only be conducted if appropriate weather and wind conditions exist.
Weather: The current forecast predicts favorable light West-Southwest winds on Wednesday. Temperatures in the mid to upper 70s and lower 80s are expected.
Smoke: During these prescribed fires, temporary smoke impacts may occur on Highway 64 between the South Rim Entrance Station and Grand Canyon Village. If smoke drifts across the road temporary, intermittent delays along Highway 64 are possible. Please slow down, turn your headlights on, and watch out for fire personnel working along the road. Weather conditions should result in favorable smoke dispersal, however some residual smoke may be present for several days following the completion of these projects. Throughout the project, fire managers will work closely with the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality to manage smoke and reduce local impacts.
Park Status: Grand Canyon National Park remains open during the project. For your safety, please do not stop along the road in the vicinity of the burn.
The Arizona Trail runs through portions of these burn units. During the prescribed fires, these portions of the trail will be closed. Signs will be posted on the trail where it enters the burn units advising trail users of the fire activity and providing alternate routes.
Resources Assigned: Approximately 35 peronnel including 2 fire module crews, 4 engines, and various support staff. Additional contingency resources are available locally if needed.
Cooperators: Kaibab National Forest, Saguaro National Park, Flagstaff Fire Department, Highlands Fire Department
Information: For more on these fires, please, contact Fire Information Officer Michelle Fidler at 928-638-7821.
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Date: May 13, 2009
TONTO NATIONAL FOREST ENTERS FIRE RESTRICTIONS
For Immediate Release May 12, 2009
Contact: Fire Information Officer 602-525-1042
Tonto National Forest begins fire restrictions May 14
PHOENIX (May 12, 2009) – Drought conditions, hot temperatures and increased fire danger have resulted in fire restrictions for the Tonto National Forest beginning Thursday, May 14 at 8 a.m. The forest will prohibit most types of fire or fire-causing activities across the entire Tonto National Forest.
Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire or charcoal-burning device is prohibited. Restrictions also apply to smoking outside of a cleared area, operating internal combustion power tools, using welding equipment or torches with open flames, operating combustion engines without spark- arresting devices in effective working order, or discharging firearms except in taking game in accordance with Arizona hunting laws. Use of petroleum-fueled stoves, lanterns, and heating devices are allowed, and some developed campgrounds are also exempted from these restrictions. (Please see attached list).
“Because of ongoing drought and dry forest conditions, fire restrictions are needed to protect forest users, structures and natural resources from the increased potential for dangerous wildland fires,” said Tonto National Forest Supervisor, Gene Blankenbaker. “These precautionary measures are intended to enhance our visitors’ quality recreation experiences. Most areas of the Tonto National Forest remain available for recreation activity, including all the Salt River system lakes.”
For further information regarding recreation sites and fire restrictions, please contact the Tonto National Forest at (602) 225-5200, or check online at www.fs.fed.us/r3/tonto.
For general information on fire activity and restrictions in Arizona call toll-free 877-864-6985, or visit http://www.publiclands.org/firenews/AZ.php (http://www.publiclands.org/firenews/AZ.php )
Violation of these restrictions is punishable by a fine of up to $5,000 and imprisonment for up to six months.
For more information regarding forest recreation sites and fire restrictions, please contact the Tonto National Forest at (602) 225-5200, or check online at www.fs.fed.us/r3/tonto.
For general information on fire activity and restrictions in Arizona call toll-free 877-864-6985, or visit the. Southwest Coordination Center website: http://gacc.nifc.gov/swcc (http://gacc.nifc.gov/swcc ) or Public Lands Information Center at http://www.publiclands.org/firenews/AZ.php (http://www.publiclands.org/firenews/AZ.php )
Useful Web sites:
Arizona Fire News: http://www.publiclands.org/firenews/AZ.php (http://www.publiclands.org/firenews/AZ.php )
New Mexico Fire News: http://www.publiclands.org/firenews/NM.php (http://www.publiclands.org/firenews/NM.php )
Incident Information System (nationwide): http://inciweb.org/ (http://inciweb.org/ )
National Interagency Fire Center: www.nifc.gov
National Fire Plan: www.fireplan.gov
FireWise: www.firewise.org
National Incident Information Center: www.fs.fed.us/news/fire
Arizona Governor’s Forest Health Council: www.governor.state.az.us/FHC
Campfires will be allowed in fire grates in the following developed recreation sites:
Cave Creek Ranger District Bartlett Lake Recreation Area
Bartlett Lake Marina
Jojoba
Rattlesnake Cove
Rattlesnake Group
S B Cove
Bartlett Flat
(below high waterline)
Yellow Cliffs
Lower Verde Recreation Area
Riverside Campground
Needle Rock Recreation Area
Needle Rock Campground
Box Bar
Seven Springs Recreation Area
CCC Campground
Seven Springs Picnic Area
Cave Creek Group Site
Horseshoe Lake Recreation Area
Horseshoe Lake CG
Catfish Point
Ocotillo
Mesquite Campground
Globe Ranger District Pioneer Pass, in the Pinal Mtns
Sulphide Del Ray, in the Pinal Mtns
Kellner, in the Pinal Mtns
Ice House CCC, in the Pinal Mtns
Pinal, in the Pinal Mtns
Upper Pinal, in the Pinal Mtns
Warnica Group Site in the Pinal Mtns
Jones Water, off AZ Hwy 77 N of Globe
Oak Flat, off AZ Hwy 60 E of Superior
Timber Camp
Mesa Ranger District Saguaro Lake Recreation Area
Saguaro Lake Marina
Saguaro Del Norte
Butcher Jones
Canyon Lake Recreation Area
Canyon Lake Marina
Acacia
Boulder
Laguna
Palo Verde
Lower Salt Recreation Area
Developed recreation sites only
Payson Ranger District Houston Mesa Campground
Houston Mesa Horse Camp
Ponderosa Campground
Sharp Creek Campground
Upper Tonto Creek Campground
Christopher Creek Campground
Pleasant Valley Ranger District Falls Campground
Reynolds Creek Group Site Rose Creek Campground
Alderwood Campground
Sawmill Flats Campground
Haigler Canyon Campground
Colcord Ridge Campground
Airplane Flats Campground
Upper Canyon Campground
Valentine Ridge Campground
Tonto Basin Ranger District Apache Lake Recreation Areas.
Apache Lake Marina
Upper Burnt Corral
Lower Burnt Corral
Crabtree
Three-mile Wash
Davis Wash
Roosevelt Recreation Area
Vineyard
Frazier
Windy Hill Cholla Bachelor Cove
Grapevine
Cottonwood
Schoolhouse Campground
Indian Point Campground
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Date: May 13, 2009
BLM ORDER FOR RESTRICTIONS IN PINAL COUNTY LANDS UNDER SAFFORD AND TUCSON FIELD OFFICES
FIRE PREVENTION ORDER NO. AZ-400-09-01
FIRE AND SMOKING RESTRICTIONS
BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT
GILA DISTRICT
SAFFORD AND TUCSON FIELD OFFICES
Under the authority of the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (43 U.S.C. 1701 et. seq.) and pursuant to CFR 9212.2, this Fire Prevention Order establishes fire restrictions for all Bureau of Land Management (BLM) public lands administered by the Gila District’s Safford and Tucson field offices within Pinal County.
In the interest of Wildfire Prevention and Public Safety, and in compliance with CFR 9212.2 requiring BLM actions to compliment and support state and local Wildfire Prevention, all state and local Wildfire Laws and Regulations shall apply to all public lands within Pinal County under protection of the Safford and Tucson field offices.
The restrictions in this Fire Prevention Order are necessary to prevent wildfire and facilitate its suppression during the current episode of high fire danger in Arizona.
Effective May 14, 2009, and until rescinded, the following acts are prohibited:
1. Building or using a fire, campfire, charcoal broiler, or wood stove except in developed camping and picnicking areas. However, the use of propane- and petroleum-fueled stoves, lanterns or heating devices is allowed beyond developed sites.
2. Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, in a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable material.
The following persons are exempt from the restrictions of this Fire Prevention Order:
1. Any federal, state, or local officer or member of an organized firefighting force in the performance of an official duty.
Violation of this Fire Prevention Order is punishable by a fine of not more than $1,000, or imprisonment of not more than 12 months, or both. (43 CFR 9212.4).
Signed in Willcox, Arizona, this thirteenth day of May, 2009
Tom Dabbs
District Manager
Gila District – Safford & Tucson Field Offices
Bureau of Land Management
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Date: May 12, 2009
BLM RESTRICTIONS ORDER FOR PHOENIX/HASSAYAMPA DISTRICT
FIRE PREVENTION ORDER NO. AZ-210-09-01
FIRE AND SMOKING RESTRICTION
BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT
PHOENIX DISTRICT
HASSAYAMPA FIELD OFFICE
Under the authority of the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (43 U.S.C. 1701 et. seq.) and pursuant to CFR 9212.2 this Fire Prevention Order establishes fire restrictions for all Bureau of Land Management (BLM) administered public lands under protection of the Hassayampa Field Office.
In the interest of Wildfire Prevention and Public Safety, and in compliance with CFR 9212.2 requiring BLM actions to complement and support state and local Wildfire Prevention, all state and local Wildfire Laws and Regulations shall apply to all public lands under protection of the Hassayampa Field Office.
The restrictions in this Fire Prevention Order are necessary for firefighter and public safety to prevent wildfire and facilitate its suppression during the current episode of high fire danger in Arizona.
Effective May 14, 2009, and until rescinded, the following acts are prohibited:
1. Building or using a fire, campfire, charcoal broiler or wood stove including in developed camping and picnicking areas. However, the use of propane and petroleum-fueled stoves, lanterns or heating devices is allowed.
2. Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building.
3. Discharging a firearm outside of taking game in accordance with Arizona hunting laws.
The following persons are exempt from the restrictions of this Fire Prevention Order:
1. Any Federal, State or local officer or member of an organized fire fighting force in the performance of an official duty.
Violation of this Fire Prevention Order is punishable by a fine of not more than $1,000, or imprisonment of not more than 12 months, or both. (43 CFR 9212.4).
Signed at Phoenix, Arizona, this 12 day of May, 2009.
____________________________________
Steven Cohn
Field Office Manager
Bureau of Land Management
Phoenix District
Hassayampa Field Office
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Date: May 12, 2009
BLM RESTRICTION ORDER FOR PHOENIX/LOWER SONORAN DISTRICT
FIRE PREVENTION ORDER NO. AZ-220-09-01
FIRE AND SMOKING RESTRICTION
BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT
PHOENIX DISTRICT
LOWER SONORAN FIELD OFFICE
Under the authority of the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (43 U.S.C. 1701 et. seq.) and pursuant to CFR 9212.2 this Fire Prevention Order establishes fire restrictions for all Bureau of Land Management (BLM) administered public lands under protection of the Lower Sonoran Field Office.
In the interest of Wildfire Prevention and Public Safety, and in compliance with CFR 9212.2 requiring BLM actions to complement and support state and local Wildfire Prevention, all state and local Wildfire Laws and Regulations shall apply to all public lands under protection of the Lower Sonoran Field Office.
The restrictions in this Fire Prevention Order are necessary for firefighter and public safety and to prevent wildfire and facilitate its suppression during the current episode of high fire danger in Arizona.
Effective May 14, 2009, and until rescinded, the following acts are prohibited:
1. Building or using a fire, campfire, charcoal broiler or wood stove including in developed camping and picnicking areas. However, the use of propane and petroleum-fueled stoves, lanterns or heating devices is allowed.
2. Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building.
3. Discharging a firearm outside of taking game in accordance with Arizona hunting laws.
The following persons are exempt from the restrictions of this Fire Prevention Order:
1. Any Federal, State or local officer or member of an organized fire fighting force in the performance of an official duty.
Violation of this Fire Prevention Order is punishable by a fine of not more than $1,000, or imprisonment of not more than 12 months, or both. (43 CFR 9212.4).
Signed at Phoenix, Arizona, this 12 day of May, 2009.
____________________________________
Emily Garber
Field Office Manager
Bureau of Land Management
Phoenix District
Lower Sonoran Field Office
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Date: May 12, 2009
BLM RESTRICTIONS ORDER FOR COLORADO RIVER/LAKE HAVASU DISTRICT
FIRE PREVENTION ORDER NUMBER AZ-320-09-01
FIRE RESTRICTIONS DUE TO EXTREME FIRE DANGER
BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT, COLORADO RIVER DISTRICT
LAKE HAVASU FIELD OFFICE
Pursuant to 43 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 9212.2, because of extreme fire hazard conditions, the following acts are prohibited on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) administered land in Arizona and California for the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) administered public lands within the jurisdiction of the Lake Havasu Field Office of the Colorado River District until further notice. This includes BLM administered public land in portions of Mohave and La Paz Counties in Arizona, and San Bernardino County in California.
PROHIBITIONS:
1. Open campfires, charcoal grills, and stove fires.
2. Smoking.
3. Use of fireworks, flares, or other incendiary devices.
4. Welding or the use of any torch or metal cutting implement.
The restrictions are necessary due to extreme fire danger from prolonged hot and dry weather conditions.
EXEMPTIONS:
1. Campfires and charcoal grills are permitted in developed recreation sites or improved sites where agency-built fire rings or grills are provided.
2. Smoking is restricted to enclosed buildings, within an enclosed vehicle and on a paved or surface roads, within a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least six feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable material.
3. The use of petroleum-fueled stoves, lanterns, or heating devices are allowed provided such devices meet the fire underwriter’s specifications for safety.
The following persons are exempt from this order:
1. Persons with a permit specifically authorizing the prohibited act or omission.
2. Any Federal, State or Local Officer or member of an organized firefighting force in the performance of an official duty.
3. Resident owners and lessees of land, and holders of recreational special use authorizations, within the restricted area are exempt from Restriction No. 1 above, provided such fires are within a permanent structure.
This Order becomes effective at 1:00 AM, May 14th, 2009, and will remain in force until rescinded.
Signed By: Greg J. Noble, Acting Field Manager
Violation of this prohibition is punishable by a fine of not more than $1,000.00 or imprisonment of not more than 12 months, or both. Questions regarding this order should be addressed to the BLM Fire Mitigation Specialist, James Stewart, at (928) 317-3260, or the Lake Havasu Field Office at (928) 505-1200.
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Date: May 12, 2009
BLM RESTRICTIONS ORDER FOR COLORADO RIVER/YUMA DISTRICT
FIRE PREVENTION ORDER NUMBER AZ-330-09-01
FIRE RESTRICTIONS DUE TO EXTREME FIRE DANGER
BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT, COLORADO RIVER DISTRICT
YUMA FIELD OFFICE
Pursuant to 43 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 9212.2, because of extreme fire hazard conditions, the following acts are prohibited on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) administered land in Arizona and California for the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) administered public lands within the jurisdiction of the Yuma Field Office of the Colorado River District until further notice. This includes BLM administered public land in portions of La Paz and Yuma Counties in Arizona, and Riverside and Imperial Counties in California.
PROHIBITIONS:
1. Open campfires, charcoal grills, and stove fires.
2. Smoking.
3. Use of fireworks, flares, or other incendiary devices.
4. Welding or the use of any torch or metal cutting implement.
The restrictions are necessary due to extreme fire danger from prolonged hot and dry weather conditions.
EXEMPTIONS:
1. Campfires and charcoal grills are permitted in developed recreation sites or improved sites where agency-built fire rings or grills are provided.
2. Smoking is restricted to enclosed buildings, within an enclosed vehicle and on a paved or surface roads, within a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least six feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable material.
3. The use of petroleum-fueled stoves, lanterns, or heating devices are allowed provided such devices meet the fire underwriter’s specifications for safety.
The following persons are exempt from this order:
1. Persons with a permit specifically authorizing the prohibited act or omission.
2. Any Federal, State or Local Officer or member of an organized firefighting force in the performance of an official duty.
3. Resident owners and lessees of land, and holders of recreational special use authorizations, within the restricted area are exempt from Restriction No. 1 above, provided such fires are within a permanent structure.
This Order becomes effective at 1:00 AM, May 14th, 2009, and will remain in force until rescinded.
Signed By: James T. Shoaff, Field Manager
Violation of this prohibition is punishable by a fine of not more than $1,000.00 or imprisonment of not more than 12 months, or both. Questions regarding this order should be addressed to the BLM Fire Mitigation Specialist, James Stewart, at (928) 317-3260, or the Yuma Field Office at (928) 317-3200.
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Date: May 12, 2009
MULTIPLE ARIZONA AGENCIES COORDINATING FIRE RESTRICTIONS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Carrie Templin 602-417-9448 Office
602-568-1004 Cell
Warm, Windy, and Dry Weather Lead to Fire Restrictions
Phoenix, Arizona, May 12—Winter rains and snow have lead to abundant plant growth across much of Arizona causing an increase in fuels in many areas including around the Phoenix metro area. “Now, prolonged dry weather, low humidity, and gusty spring winds have resulted in dangerous fire conditions. There is an increased threat of small fires becoming major wildfires, especially when coupled with the windy conditions the state is experiencing,” according to Tim Schaeffer, Assistant Fire Management Officer for BLM Arizona.
Predicted temperatures over 100 degrees have increased the fire danger. So far in 2009, Arizona has experienced 15 large wildfires (>100 acres) burning around 33,000 acres, the largest reaching nearly 17,000 acres. Two fires required assistance from an Incident Management Team. On average, sixty per cent of Arizona’s 3,500 annual wildfires are human-caused.
The following is a brief summary of campfire and smoking restrictions. For a complete discussion of each agency’s restrictions, go to http://www.publiclands.org/firenews/AZ.php (http://www.publiclands.org/firenews/AZ.php ) and click on the Arizona restrictions button.
Bureau of Land Management Administered Lands---Lands managed by the Phoenix District Office as well as those managed by the Yuma and Lake Havasu offices of the Colorado River District will implement campfire and smoking restrictions on Thursday, May 14. The Safford Field Office will implement fire restrictions on BLM managed lands within Pinal County beginning May 14. In addition, firearm restrictions will be implemented for the fire season by the Phoenix District on May 14.
National Forest Lands---The Tonto National Forest will implement campfire, smoking and firearm restrictions on May 14.
US Fish and Wildlife Service---Year-round fire restrictions are in effect along the Colorado River within the Imperial, Cibola, Bill Williams River, and Havasu National Wildlife Refuges. Fire restrictions will be implemented on the Kofa National Wildlife Refuge May 14.
National Park Service--- National Parks and Monuments are managed year-round with different campfire restrictions than other Federal lands, check locally for compliance requirements.
Tribal Lands/BIA--- Hopi Tribal lands remain under year-around fire restrictions. Quechan Tribal lands have fire restrictions for campfires, check locally for compliance requirements. The Colorado River Indian Tribes have closures of designated areas, check locally for compliance requirements.
State of Arizona---Fire restrictions on lands managed by the Arizona Forestry Division within Gila, La Paz, Maricopa, Yavapai, Pinal, and Yuma counties will be implemented at noon on May 14.
City of Phoenix – The City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department banned open and charcoal fires as well as smoking outside of enclosed vehicles in city mountain parks and desert preserves on Monday, May 11. For more info go to phoenix.gov/parks/fireinfo.html.
Private Lands---Fire and/or smoking restrictions could be in effect on some private lands within Arizona as well as within your community’s city limits. Also, Fire Districts or County officials may have already implemented restrictions. If you are unsure whether you can weld, use power equipment, or are allowed a backyard fire, contact your local Fire Department, Fire District, or County office.
During an active fire and rehabilitation, closures may be in effect for portions of the fire area and trails and roads nearby. Also, individual units may implement or change restrictions at any time. It is impossible to list all fire restrictions, so please call ahead or visit the local office to get the most up-to-date information or visit their website to see the latest maps before you head out to your favorite spot. Fire restriction and closure information can also be found on websites http://www.publiclands.org/firenews/AZ.php (http://www.publiclands.org/firenews/AZ.php ) and http://gacc.nifc.gov/swcc/ (http://gacc.nifc.gov/swcc/ ) or by calling toll-free 1-877-864-6985.
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Date: May 11, 2009
BLM ANNOUNCES RESTRICTIONS FOR LAKE HAVASU/YUMA AREAS ON COLORADO RIVER DISTRICT
For Release: May 11, 2009
Contact: Lake Havasu: Diane Williams, 928-505-1250
Cell: 928-412-5007
Yuma: Lori Cook, 928-317-3243, Cell: 928-246-8560
Fire Restrictions Announced for Bureau of Land Management
Lake Havasu, Ariz. - To prevent a devastating fire season, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Colorado River District has announced fire restrictions on 2.5 million acres of public lands along the Colorado River in Arizona and California.
Effective Thursday, May 14, 2009, fire and smoking restrictions will be enforced on all public lands within the BLM Yuma and Lake Havasu Field Office jurisdictions. These restrictions are similar to those being implemented at this time in other areas of the State.
The BLM is asking the public to use extreme caution when visiting public lands this summer. Currently there are no plans to close any areas along the Colorado River area to public use. The public is reminded that the Fire Restrictions prohibit the following acts:
1. Open campfires, charcoal grills, and stove fires. Campfires and charcoal grills are permitted in developed recreation sites or improved sites, where agency-built fire rings or grills are provided. The use of petroleum-fueled stoves, lanterns, or heating devices are allowed provided such devices meet the fire underwriter’s specifications for safety.
2. Smoking. Smoking is restricted to enclosed buildings, within a vehicle and on a paved or surface road, within a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least six feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable material.
3. Use of fireworks, flares, or other incendiary devices.
4. Welding or the use of any torch or metal cutting implement.
The restrictions are necessary due to extreme fire danger from prolonged hot and dry weather conditions. The restrictions will continue until conditions warrant rescinding.
Violations of these restrictions are punishable by a fine of not more than $1,000 and/or imprisonment of not more than 12 months.
Bill Williams, Havasu, Imperial, and Cibola National Wildlife Refuges continue to enforce year round fire restrictions.
For fire restriction information in Arizona and New Mexico:
Call Toll Free: 1-877-864-6985
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Date: May 8, 2009
PHOENIX BANNING FIRE IN MOUNTAIN AND DESERT PRESERVES MAY11th
May 8, 2009
Contact: David Urbinato 602-262-4994
Cell 602-350-1506
Steve Turner 602-261-8606
200 W. Washington St. 16th floor, Phoenix, Arizona 85003
602-262-6862 Fax: 602-534-3787, TTY: 602-262-6713
phoenix.gov
Parks and Recreation Department Sets Seasonal Fire Ban to Start May 11
The Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department will ban open fires in city mountain and
desert preserves* effective May 11. In consultation with the Phoenix Fire Department, smoking
and charcoal fires again will be included in the ban due to the extreme fire danger created from
rising temperatures and dropping humidity levels.
For those using the preserves, the fire ban stipulates the following:
• Open, wood and charcoal fires are prohibited in any part of the Phoenix mountain preserves.
• Smoking outside of enclosed vehicles will continue to be prohibited.
• Propane or gas grills may be used but only in established picnic areas.
Motorists traveling through or near Phoenix desert preserves should exercise extreme care with
smoking materials and use only their vehicle’s ash trays to dispose of smoking materials.
To protect their homes, residents whose property borders the preserves may remove dry
shrubs, brush and grasses and trim dead branches from trees within the ten-foot strip of preserve
bordering their property. By creating this ten-foot “buffer zone,” residents can help to protect their
homes from brush fires in the adjacent preserve. Before removing vegetation, residents can
review their removal plan with a Park Ranger by calling 602-495-5458 or by email at
natural.resources@phoenix.gov. Preserve neighbors also should check irrigation lines and pool
back-flush hoses to ensure that water is not seeping into the preserve. Outside water sources
encourage unnaturally dense vegetation growth, which increases fire risk.
Residents can get brush removal information or make inquiries by calling 602-495-5458.
The Parks Department has created a webpage with comprehensive fire ban information at
phoenix.gov/parks/fireinfo.html. The webpage contains an e-mail form residents can use to send
questions to park rangers, comprehensive information on brush removal and details on the fire ban.
*The ban applies to Camelback Mountain; Papago Park; all areas of the Phoenix Mountains;
South Mountain Park/Preserve; and North Mountain and its adjoining areas. The fire ban does
NOT apply to traditional city parks.
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Date: May 8, 2009
BLM PLANS BURN IN GALIURO MOUNTAINS
For Immediate Release April 20, 2009
Contact: Diane Drobka 928-348-4403 Diane_Drobka@blm.gov
Mark Pater 928-348-4416 Mark_Pater@blm.gov
BLM Plans Prescribed Fire at Muleshoe Ranch
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Gila District and Safford Field Office have tentatively planned a prescribed burn on the Muleshoe Ranch, located north of Willcox and Benson in the Galiuro Mountains. The exact timing of the burn will be weather dependent. The public can expect to see smoke from the area during the project.
Ground-based ignitions to establish the burn boundaries may take place during the weeks of April 27-May 2 or May 4-9; the process should take no longer than four days. After the perimeter of the unit is burned, aerial ignitions utilizing helicopters will occur during the week of May 11-16, weather dependent, and should take no longer than three days.
The major objective of the burn is to improve watershed conditions and wildlife habitat by converting shrub-invaded grassland to more open, denser stands of grass with mid- to tall-statured perennial grasses, replacing annual or short growth forms of perennial grasses.
Fire personnel will work to create multiple, small burned areas within the proposed burn unit to create a patchwork of habitats. The prescribed fire will reduce the continuity of shindagger (Agave schottii) to create multiple islands/areas of shindagger and promote an increase of warm-season perennial grasses as well as warm- and cool-season forbs. The fire should also reduce decadent woody material along the ridgetops to create open travel routes for desert bighorn sheep, mule deer, and Coue’s white-tailed deer.
The burn unit is bounded by Swamp Springs Canyon to the north and Jackson Cabin road along the eastern boundary. The southern boundary runs west along a natural gas pipeline road; the western boundary terminates above Redfield Canyon at the Redfield Canyon Wilderness boundary.
Those planning to hike or camp at the Muleshoe Ranch are encouraged to avoid the dates of planned fire activity as there will be temporary impacts to air quality and solitude during the burn.
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Date: May 7, 2009
IT'S PRESCRIBED BURN SEASON AT GRAND CANYON
Grand Canyon News Release Release date: Immediate
Contact(s): Shannan Marcak Phone number: 928-638-7958
Date: April 23, 2009
Grand Canyon Fire Managers to Initiate Prescribed Burns on South Rim
Grand Canyon, AZ. -- Grand Canyon National Park fire managers will be implementing up to three prescribed fires on the South Rim this spring: the Picnic Prescribed Fire, the Quarry Prescribed Fire and the Moqui Prescribed Fire. Plans call for these prescribed burns to be initiated individually within the next 30 days.
The Picnic burn unit is 222 acres in size and is located approximately 3 miles north of Tusayan and 1.25 miles south of Grand Canyon Village adjacent to Highway 64 (Hwy 64) on the east side of the highway. (See attached map.) This unit starts at the junction of Center Road and Hwy 64 within the park and runs south (toward the park exit) along Hwy 64 for approximately 1.5 miles. The primary fuels in this unit are ponderosa pine and pinyon/juniper stands with some grasses and brush. The Picnic unit last burned in 2000.
The Quarry burn unit is 319 acres in size and is located approximately 2 miles north of Tusayan and 2.25 miles south of Grand Canyon Village on the west side of Hwy 64. No portion of the Quarry burn unit is immediately adjacent to the highway. The western boundary of this burn unit borders the Kaibab National Forest and the southern edge borders the northern edge of the Moqui burn unit. This burn unit contains ponderosa pine and pinyon/juniper stands as well as grass and brush. The Quarry unit last burned in 2000.
The Moqui burn unit is 743 acres in size and starts at the south boundary of Grand Canyon National Park in the immediate vicinity of the South Entrance Station. It then runs north along the west side of Hwy 64 for approximately 2 miles. The Moqui burn unit is bordered on the west by the Kaibab National Forest boundary and on the north by the Quarry burn unit. This burn unit contains ponderosa pine and pinyon/juniper stands as well as grass and brush. The Moqui unit last burned in 1996.
Fire managers plan to burn these units one at a time, starting with the Picnic unit, the farthest unit from the South Entrance Station and the town of Tusayan. After the Picnic burn is completed,fire managers will move on to the Quarry Prescribed Fire. The smoke impacts from both of these fires will be assessed before a final decision is made to initiate the Moqui Prescribed Fire. If the smoke impacts exceed fire managers’ expectations, the Moqui Prescribed Fire will not be initiated. Additionally, if the Moqui burn is initiated, fire managers plan to burn only the northern half of the unit. This would keep fire activity at least one half mile north of the South Entrance Station.
The Arizona Trail runs through portions of these burn units. During the prescribed fires, these portions of the trail will be closed. Signs will be posted on the trail where it enters the burn units advising trail users of the fire activity and providing alternate routes.
Prescribed fires are used by fire managers as a tool to achieve defined resource objectives and to reduce dangerous accumulations of fuels which increase the potential for wildland fire hazards. The resource objectives of these three prescribed fires are to use fire to decrease risks to life, property and resources by reducing accumulations of forest fuels, and to maintain fire in a fire-dependent ecosystem.
Based on the objectives they wish to achieve, fire managers develop a plan for each prescribed fire. Each fire’s plan contains a prescription—a set of parameters that define when fire managers can initiate burning based on environmental factors such as wind, relative humidity, temperature and expected weather patterns, and on fuel conditions. If all prescriptive parameters within a fire’s plan are not met, the fire will not be started.
During these prescribed fires, smoke impacts may occur on Hwy 64 between the park entrance and Grand Canyon Village. Fire activity, including personnel and equipment may also be visible along this road. Signs will be posted advising visitors and motorists of possible smoke impacts.
Coordination with the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality; Kaibab National Forest, Tusayan District; and Arizona Public Service is already occurring.
For information on plans for South Rim prescribed fires, please call 928-638-7958. To learn more about fire management in Grand Canyon National Park, visit the park’s web site at www.nps.gov/grca/parkmgmt/firemanagement.htm.
Grand Canyon National Park
PO Box 129
Grand Canyon, AZ 86023
928 638-7779 phone
928 638-7609 fax
www.nps.gov/grca
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Date: May 5, 2009
PRESCOTT FOREST PLANS PRESCRIBED BURN NEAR ASH CREEK
For Immediate Release May 4, 2009
Contact: Debbie Maneely (928) 443-8130
Prescribed Burning May 6-10
PRESCOTT, AZ (May 4, 2009) - Fire officials plan to burn approximately 2500 acres on Wednesday, May 6 through Sunday May 10; weather conditions permitting. The burn area is located south and east of Palace Station near Ash Creek.
Specific days to burn are determined by appropriate air temperatures, wind conditions, humidity and expected weather patterns. Smoke may be visible for numerous days in the surrounding areas. No road closures are expected, but fire officials ask that visitors be cautious when driving in these areas. Signs will be posted warning drivers of fire activity.
Prescribed burns help remove dead vegetation, invigorate the plant and animal communities, promote a healthy watershed and will help return fire to its natural role in the ecosystem. These burns are part of an ongoing fuels reduction project to reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfire on the Prescott National Forest.
As always, public and firefighter safety is our top priority. For current information on prescribed burns visit http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott (http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott ) or call the Prescott National Forest fire information line at 928-777-5799.
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Date: April 27, 2009
GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK TO LIGHT UP 3 PRESCRIBED BURNS ON SOUTH RIM
Grand Canyon News Release
Release date: Immediate
Contact(s): Shannan Marcak
Phone number: 928-638-7958
Date: April 23, 2009
Grand Canyon Fire Managers to Initiate Prescribed Burns on South Rim
Grand Canyon, AZ. -- Grand Canyon National Park fire managers will be implementing up to three prescribed fires on the South Rim this spring: the Picnic Prescribed Fire, the Quarry Prescribed Fire and the Moqui Prescribed Fire. Plans call for these prescribed burns to be initiated individually within the next 30 days.
The Picnic burn unit is 222 acres in size and is located approximately 3 miles north of Tusayan and 1.25 miles south of Grand Canyon Village adjacent to Highway 64 (Hwy 64) on the east side of the highway. (See attached map.) This unit starts at the junction of Center Road and Hwy 64 within the park and runs south (toward the park exit) along Hwy 64 for approximately 1.5 miles. The primary fuels in this unit are ponderosa pine and pinyon/juniper stands with some grasses and brush. The Picnic unit last burned in 2000.
The Quarry burn unit is 319 acres in size and is located approximately 2 miles north of Tusayan and 2.25 miles south of Grand Canyon Village on the west side of Hwy 64. No portion of the Quarry burn unit is immediately adjacent to the highway. The western boundary of this burn unit borders the Kaibab National Forest and the southern edge borders the northern edge of the Moqui burn unit. This burn unit contains ponderosa pine and pinyon/juniper stands as well as grass and brush. The Quarry unit last burned in 2000.
The Moqui burn unit is 743 acres in size and starts at the south boundary of Grand Canyon National Park in the immediate vicinity of the South Entrance Station. It then runs north along the west side of Hwy 64 for approximately 2 miles. The Moqui burn unit is bordered on the west by the Kaibab National Forest boundary and on the north by the Quarry burn unit. This burn unit contains ponderosa pine and pinyon/juniper stands as well as grass and brush. The Moqui unit last burned in 1996.
Fire managers plan to burn these units one at a time, starting with the Picnic unit, the farthest unit from the South Entrance Station and the town of Tusayan. After the Picnic burn is completed, fire managers will move on to the Quarry Prescribed Fire. The smoke impacts from both of these fires will be assessed before a final decision is made to initiate the Moqui Prescribed Fire. If the smoke impacts exceed fire managers’ expectations, the Moqui Prescribed Fire will not be initiated. Additionally, if the Moqui burn is initiated, fire managers plan to burn only the northern half of the unit. This would keep fire activity at least one half mile north of the South Entrance Station.
The Arizona Trail runs through portions of these burn units. During the prescribed fires, these portions of the trail will be closed. Signs will be posted on the trail where it enters the burn units advising trail users of the fire activity and providing alternate routes.
Prescribed fires are used by fire managers as a tool to achieve defined resource objectives and to reduce dangerous accumulations of fuels which increase the potential for wildland fire hazards. The resource objectives of these three prescribed fires are to use fire to decrease risks to life, property and resources by reducing accumulations of forest fuels, and to maintain fire in a fire-dependent ecosystem.
Based on the objectives they wish to achieve, fire managers develop a plan for each prescribed fire. Each fire’s plan contains a prescription—a set of parameters that define when fire managers can initiate burning based on environmental factors such as wind, relative humidity, temperature and expected weather patterns, and on fuel conditions. If all prescriptive parameters within a fire’s plan are not met, the fire will not be started.
During these prescribed fires, smoke impacts may occur on Hwy 64 between the park entrance and Grand Canyon Village. Fire activity, including personnel and equipment may also be visible along this road. Signs will be posted advising visitors and motorists of possible smoke impacts.
Coordination with the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality; Kaibab National Forest, Tusayan District; and Arizona Public Service is already occurring.
For information on plans for South Rim prescribed fires, please call 928-638-7958.
SHANNAN D. MARCAK
Public Affairs Specialist
Grand Canyon National Park
(928)638-7958
Shannan_Marcak@nps.gov
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Date: April 20, 2009
LATEST PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST PRESCRIBED BURN PLANS SET
For Immediate Release April 20, 2009
Contact: Debbie Maneely (928) 443-8130
Prescribed Burning April 22-26
PRESCOTT, AZ (April 20, 2009) - Fire officials plan to burn on Wednesday, April 22 through Sunday April 26; weather conditions permitting. Fire fighters plan to burn approximately 600 acres on Wednesday, April 22; south and west of the Community of Cherry and approximately 4000 acres on Wednesday, April 22 through Sunday, April 26, in the Ash Creek area; south and east of Palace Station.
Specific days to burn are determined by appropriate air temperatures, wind conditions, humidity and expected weather patterns. Smoke may be visible for numerous days in the surrounding areas. No road closures are expected, but fire officials ask that visitors be cautious when driving in these areas. Signs will be posted warning drivers of fire activity.
Prescribed burns help remove dead vegetation, invigorate the plant and animal communities, promote a healthy watershed and will help return fire to its natural role in the ecosystem. These burns are part of an ongoing fuels reduction project to reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfire on the Prescott National Forest.
As always, public and firefighter safety is our top priority. For current information on prescribed burns visit http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott (http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott ) or call the Prescott National Forest fire information line at 928-777-5799.
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Date: April 15, 2009
PARK SERVICE TO BURN PILES ON SOUTH RIM AT GRAND CANYON
Grand Canyon News Release
For Immediate Release: April 14, 2009
Contact: Shannan Marcak 928-638-7958
Pile Burning to Resume at South Rim of Grand Canyon
Grand Canyon, AZ – The National Park Service will be burning piles of woody debris on the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park. The pile burns will occur over the next few weeks as weather conditions allow.
The piles of debris consist of small tree branches, twigs, and needles
removed during preparation of prescribed fire control lines. Pile burning is a necessary preparation for the prescribed fires scheduled for this fall at the South Rim. The piles will be ignited and monitored by firefighters until they are completely out.
Park visitors may see or smell smoke in the vicinity of the piles which are located along the south side of Highway 64 between Grand View Point Road and the Forest Service 310 Road (Grand View Lookout Tower Road). This area is approximately 12 miles southeast of Grand Canyon Village. Signs will be posted advising visitors and motorists of possible smoke along impacted travel corridors.
For more information on this debris burning project, please contact Dan Pearson at 928-638-7934.
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Date: April 3, 2009
PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST HOPES TO EXECUTE BURN PLANS APRIL 6-10
For Immediate Release April 3, 2009
Contact: Debbie Maneely (928) 443-8130
Prescott Forest Prescribed Burning Scedule For April 6-10
PRESCOTT, AZ (April 3, 2009) - Fire officials plan to burn on Monday, April 6 through Friday, April 10; weather conditions permitting. The possible areas for burning are in Ash Creek or Cherry, south and west of the Community of Cherry.
Specific days to burn are determined by current and expected weather patterns. Depending on conditions, any of the areas may be treated during the 5 day period. Smoke may be visible for numerous days in the surrounding areas. No road closures are expected, but fire mangers ask that visitors be cautious when driving in these areas. Signs will be posted warning drivers of fire activity.
Prescribed burns help remove dead vegetation, invigorate the plant and animal communities, promote a healthy watershed and will help return fire to its natural role in the ecosystem. These burns are part of an ongoing fuels reduction project to reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfire on the Prescott National Forest.
As always, public and firefighter safety is our top priority. For current information on prescribed burns visit http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott (http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott ) or call the Prescott National Forest fire information line at 928-777-5799.
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Date: March 27, 2009
PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST CONTINUES SPRING BURNING
For Immediate Release March 27, 2009
Contact: Debbie Maneely (928) 443-8130
Prescott Prescribed Burning March 31-April 3
PRESCOTT, AZ (March 27, 2009) - Fire officials plan to burn on Tuesday, March 31 through Friday, April 3; weather conditions permitting. The possible areas for burning are in Ponderosa Park; Ash Creek, south and east of Palace Station; Cherry, south and west of the Community of Cherry; and Minnehaha, west of Crown King.
Specific days to burn are determined by current and expected weather patterns. Depending on conditions, any of the areas may be treated during the 4 day period. Smoke may be visible for numerous days in the surrounding areas. No road closures are expected, but fire mangers ask that visitors be cautious when driving in these areas. Signs will be posted warning drivers of fire activity.
Prescribed burns help remove dead vegetation, invigorate the plant and animal communities, promote a healthy watershed and will help return fire to its natural role in the ecosystem. These burns are part of an ongoing fuels reduction project to reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfire on the Prescott National Forest.
As always, public and firefighter safety is our top priority. For current information on prescribed burns visit http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott (http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott ) or call the Prescott National Forest fire information line at 928-777-5799.
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Date: March 12, 2009
KAIBAB RE-OPENS SOME ROADS ON TUSAYAN RANGER DISTRICT
For Immediate Release: March 11, 2009
CONTACT: Punky Moore 928-635-5653
Tusayan Ranger District Lifts Closure on Some Roads
TUSAYAN, Ariz. – Warmer days and drier conditions have enabled managers on the Tusayan Ranger District of the Kaibab National Forest to open some previously closed forest roads. Managers are lifting travel restrictions, Wednesday, March 11, on roads on the east side of state Highway 64 in the area known as Upper Basin. However, a gate remains closed at the Trash Dam to westbound traffic on Forest Road 307 toward Grand View Lookout.
The remaining roads east of Highway 64 outside the Upper and Lower Basin areas are still closed to protect the resources and provide for public safety. All roads on the west side of Highway 64 including Forest Road 328 are open.
Forest personnel are checking roads on a daily basis. As soon as conditions warrant, forest managers will continue to lift the temporary motor vehicle restrictions and reopen the roads to motorized travel.
Visitors to the area should contact the Tusayan Ranger District at (928) 638-2443 before traveling in order to verify weather and road conditions.
“We thank the public for your patience as we continue to assess conditions and reopen roads, said acting Tusayan District Ranger Tom Mutz. “We encourage visitors to use caution and also call ahead before planning your trip to the Tusayan Ranger District.”
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Date: March 10, 2009
PRESCOTT FOREST PLANS SPRING BURNS NEAR CHERRY FOR 3/11-13
Prescott National Forest plans to burn 40 acres Wednesday, March 11 through Friday, March 13; approximately 4 miles south and west of the community of Cherry adjacent to Highway 169. Smoke will be visible from Highway 169 with possible road delays on County Road 75.
Specific days to burn are determined by current and expected weather patterns.
These projects are part of an ongoing effort to improve forest health by reintroducing fire into the ecosystem, reducing hazardous fuels,and create defensible space around residential and high use areas.
Debbie Maneely
Public Affairs Specialist
Prescott National Forest
dmaneely@fs.fed.us
(928) 443-8130
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Date: March 6, 2009
KAIBAB FOREST LIMITS TRAVEL NEAR WILLIAMS DUE TO WET CONDITIONS, NOT DRY ONES
For Immediate Release March 5, 2009
Contact: Punky Moore 928-635-5653
Williams Ranger District To Implement Temporary Wet Weather Travel Restrictions
WILLIAMS, Ariz. – Due to warmer temperatures, melting snow and muddy conditions, Kaibab National Forest managers will implement temporary wet weather motor vehicle travel restrictions on the Williams Ranger District Friday, March 6.
The wet weather restrictions include the temporary closure of many roads and the prohibition of cross-country motor vehicle travel when soils are saturated and resource damage is occurring. When the restrictions go in effect tomorrow, a backbone system of roads will remain open to allow motorized forest access. The roads that remain open are those that are most suitable for motorized travel during wet conditions and are strategically located to provide reasonable access to the forest. Green dots on carsonite signs indicate routes open to vehicle travel during wet weather restrictions.
“This is a temporary measure we are taking due to the hazardous conditions that exist right now and the potential for long-term damage to forest roads and resources,” said Williams District Ranger Martie Schramm.
The goal of the wet weather travel policy, which was developed in 2005 in collaboration with the Coconino National Forest and the Arizona Game and Fish Department, is to provide reasonable motor vehicle access during times of extremely wet and muddy conditions while also protecting forest roads and resources and providing for public safety.
Information on wet weather travel restrictions, including maps showing open routes, is available at forest offices. Also, signs reading, “Entering wheeled motorized restriction area. Use only roads and trails shown on official map,” along with a second sign displaying a map showing open routes in the area are posted at strategic access points on the forest. Motorized travelers are required to stay on those designated routes until the restrictions have been lifted.
“We will lift these travel restrictions as quickly as possible,” Schramm said. “Forest employees will be monitoring forest conditions daily, and we will lift the restrictions when the soils have dried out.”
Wet weather travel restrictions are implemented in a similar way to fire restrictions and area closures. Based on conditions on the ground, an official order is issued that restricts use to those roads that are most suitable for travel. The restrictions are lifted as soon as conditions allow. Just as with fire area closures, wet weather travel restrictions are only implemented when conditions create hazards to public safety and forest resources.
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Date: January 26, 2009
Prescott Forest Continuing Slash Pile Burning
For Immediate Release January 23, 2009
Contact: Debbie Maneely (928) 443-8130
Prescott National Forest Plans to Burn Slash Piles
PRESCOTT, AZ (January 23, 2009) - Fire managers plan to burn accumulated slash piles on Monday, January 26 through Friday, January 30; weather conditions permitting. These piles are located in the Spruce Mountain/Groom Creek area and west of Thumb Butte near the Miller Creek Summer Homes.
Specific days to burn are determined by current and expected weather patterns. Depending on conditions, any of the areas may be treated during the 5 day period. These piles will be monitored and allowed to completely burn themselves out. Smoke may be visible for numerous days in the surrounding areas.
This project is part of an ongoing effort to improve forest health by reintroducing fire into the ecosystem, reducing hazardous fuels, and creating defensible space around residential and high use areas.
END
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Date: January 20, 2009
Prescott National Forest Plans to Burn Slash Piles
For Immediate Release January 16, 2009
Contact: Debbie Maneely (928) 443-8130
Prescott National Forest Plans to Burn Slash Piles
PRESCOTT, AZ (January 16, 2009) - Fire managers plan to burn accumulated slash piles on Tuesday, January 20 through Friday, January 23 weather conditions permitting. These piles are located in the Spruce Mountain/Groom Creek area.
Specific days to burn are determined by current and expected weather patterns. Depending on conditions, any of the areas may be treated during the 4 day period. These piles will be monitored and allowed to completely burn themselves out. Smoke may be visible for numerous days in the surrounding areas.
This project is part of an ongoing effort to improve forest health by reintroducing fire into the ecosystem, reducing hazardous fuels, and creating defensible space around residential and high use areas.
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Date: December 3, 2008
MARTEEN WILDLAND USE FIRE ENDS ITS LONG, LONG RUN
For Immediate Release Dec. 2, 2008
Punky Moore 928-635-5653
Managers Call Marteen Wildland Fire Use Out
WILLIAMS, Ariz. – Managers on the Kaibab National Forest announced today that after almost four months the Marteen Wildland Fire Use (WFU) is out. Significant precipitation in addition to cold, short nights has stopped activity. The final size of the incident was 10,788 acres; the total cost to manage the incident was $100,765.
The fire started Aug. 7 by lightning. Forest officials initially decided to manage the incident under a confinement strategy. After a week of growth, evaluation and assessment officials shifted the fire from confinement status to management for resource benefits. The change in strategy was authorized under the guidelines of a pilot program that the Kaibab National Forest participated in this season. The pilot program tested proposed modifications to the Wildland Fire Management Policy, 2003.
Situated within an 18,000-acre working boundary 15 miles northeast of Williams, the Marteen WFU spread through ponderosa pine, pinyon juniper and grass, successfully meeting resource managers’ goals. These goals included reducing hazardous fuel buildup, increasing plant diversity and allowing fire to resume its role in a fire-adapted ecosystem.
As fire reached specific locations, personnel took actions to slow, stop or redirect fire spread. Some of the actions implemented involved protecting cultural and heritage resources, preventing rapid upslope runs on surrounding mountains and keeping fire from spreading onto private property.
“We appreciate the public’s patience and willingness to understand that wildland fire use management is one of the tools that managers will continue to use to achieve resource benefits, protect communities and improve forest health,” said Martie Schramm, Williams District Ranger.
For additional information, please contact Punky Moore at (928) 635-5653.
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Date: November 19, 2008
MARTEEN WILDLAND FIRE STILL BEING USE-FUL
For Immediate Release Nov. 18, 2008
Punky Moore 928-635-5653
Marteen Wildland Fire Use Still Alive
WILLIAMS, Ariz. – The Marteen Wildland Fire Use (WFU) continues to smolder and creep through ponderosa pine, pinyon juniper and grass about 15 miles northeast of Williams. Monitors report the fire is approximately 10,788 acres and producing little smoke.
Current activity is primarily in the Wildcat Hill area on the west side of the fire. Managers expect the fire to continue to burn slowly and creep around as long as conditions remain dry.
The Marteen WFU is meeting resource managers’ goals of reducing hazardous fuel buildup, decreasing the intensity and severity of future fires in the area, increasing plant diversity, and allowing fire to resume its role in the ecosystem.
The lightning caused fire began Aug. 7 and grew at a steady pace for weeks, moving north and south along Spring Valley Wash. It expanded to 700 acres before the monsoon rains arrived. Plentiful precipitation stopped fire activity for over a month. Then, on Oct. 15, personnel reported renewed fire activity.
“When the Marteen Fire came back to life, we evaluated the fire’s potential benefits and possible risks before we decided it was appropriate to continue to manage it for resource benefits. Each time we can manage a fire in an area of the forest that has gone too long without this natural disturbance, we are meeting our land management responsibilities to improve forest health and protect communities,” said Martie Schramm, Williams District Ranger.
Since the Marteen WFU began in August, personnel have actively managed the fire within an 18,000-acre area. As fire moved close to pre-determined locations, personnel took management actions to stop, redirect or slow fire spread. These actions included protecting cultural and heritage sites, preventing rapid upslope fire funs on nearby mountains and keeping fire from spreading onto private property.
The fire will likely go out on its own when it receives significant moisture. However, this may be awhile since there is no indication of precipitation in the general forecast.
For additional information, please contact Punky Moore at (928) 635-5653
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Date: November 17, 2008
LIGHTNING STARTS "OUT-OF-SEASON" WILDFIRE ON PRESCOTT FOREST
Lightning Sparks Fire
PRESCOTT, AZ (November 17, 2008) - A lightning caused wildland fire was reported on Saturday, November 15. The Yankee Fire is burning along Longfellow Ridge, south of Palace Station (T11N, R1W, S6). The fire is approximately 28 acres and 80% contained with full containment expected this afternoon. No structures are threatened.
Lighting had been seen in the area on Sunday, November 9, by firefighters monitoring the Ash Creek Prescribed Burn. While suppressing the fire, firefighters did find a tree that was struck by lighting.
As always, public and firefighter safety is our top priority. For current information on prescribed burns, fire restrictions, closures or wildfires on the Prescott National Forest visit http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott/ (http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott/ ) or call the Prescott National Forest fire information line at 928-777-5799.
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Date: November 14, 2008
PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST AIMS FOR FOUR PRESCRIBED BURN PROJECTS
For Immediate Release November 14, 2008
Contact: Debbie Maneely (928) 443-8130
Prescribed Burning Update – November 17 through November 22
PRESCOTT, AZ (November 14, 2008)—Prescott National Forest fire officials have scheduled four possible prescribed burn projects during the week of November 17 through November 22; weather conditions permitting. Days and location of burns will be decided based on favorable weather and fuels conditions in each area.
Ash Creek - approximately 3500 acres is scheduled. The burn is located in the Ash Creek area south of Palace Station. Possible road delays on Forest Road 52 and County Road 177. (T12N, R1W, Sec.19, 31, 32, 33)
Bean Peaks – approximately 350 acres of broadcast maintenance burn is scheduled to complete the Bean Peaks project. Signs will be posted along Highway 89 warning drivers of the prescribed burn and of possible smoke. Vehicles traveling on School House Gulch Road and Marapai Road should be cautious due to smoke and possible delays. (T13N, R2W, Sec. 20 & 21)
Kendall – approximately 2000 acres is scheduled. The burn is located on Mingus Mt. south of Kendall peak. (T14N , R2W, Sec.34)
Block 169 – approximately 1200 acres. The burn is located north of Hwy 169 on the southeast corner of Cherry Road and Hwy 169. Sign will be posted in the area. There may be delays on Cherry Road due to fire crews but no smoke impacts are expected on Hwy 169. (T13N, R3W, Sec.2)
Prescribed burns help remove dead vegetation, invigorate the plant and animal communities, promote a healthy watershed and will help return fire to its natural role in the ecosystem. These burns are part of an ongoing fuels reduction project to reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfire on the Prescott National Forest.
As always, public and firefighter safety is our top priority. For current information on prescribed burns visit http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott (http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott ) or call the Prescott National Forest fire information line at 928-777-5799.
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Date: November 7, 2008
KAIBAB CONTINUES TO "USE" MARTEEN FIRE
For Immediate Release Nov. 7, 2008
Contact: Jackie Banks 928-635-8314
Marteen Wildland Fire Use Fire Grew Today, Put Up Smoke
WILLIAMS, Ariz. – The Marteen Wildland Fire Use Fire, which has been burning through ponderosa pine, pinyon/juniper and grass about 15 miles northeast of Williams just north of Sitgreaves Mountain, picked up in activity today and produced smoke that made its way into the community of Williams.
Winds from the northeast, which pushed smoke from the fire toward Williams, and poor ventilation conditions, which kept the smoke trapped near the ground, led to the smoky conditions in town. Fire managers said they expect the smoke to dissipate tomorrow as ventilation conditions improve.
The Marteen fire grew to 10,704 acres today by moving across Laws and Wildcat hills, both of which are located on the fire’s western edge. The fire remains within the boundaries fire managers have established for it.
The Marteen fire continues to meet resource managers’ goals of reducing fuel buildup on the forest floor, decreasing the risk of future high-intensity wildland fires, increasing plant diversity, and allowing fire to play a more natural role within a fire-adapted ecosystem.
The lightning-caused fire started Aug. 7 and grew to 700 acres before going dormant during monsoon rains. Renewed fire activity began Oct. 15.
For addition information, please contact Jackie Banks at (928) 635-8314
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Date: October 31, 2008
MARTEEN WILDLAND USE FIRE GROWS ON KAIBAB NORTHWEST OF WILLIAMS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Oct. 31, 2008
CONTACT: Punky Moore 928-635-5653
Activity Increases on the Marteen Wildland Fire Use
WILLIAMS, Ariz. – Fire activity increased noticeably Thursday on the Marteen Wildland Fire Use, 15 miles northeast of Williams. The fire grew to 9,947 acres under dry, warm conditions and southwest winds as it continued to spread north and east near Forest Roads 88 and 118.
Managers continue to apply the full range of management options on this incident to meet resource objectives. Every day, managers assess firefighter and public safety, evaluate risks to cultural and heritage resources and review potential threats to private property in order to manage the fire within proposed boundaries. Some of the resource benefits from this fire include improving habitat, creating fuel breaks that will moderate future fire behavior, reducing dangerous fuel accumulation and reintroducing fire as an important element in the ecosystem.
Thursday, personnel continued to reinforce the eastern boundary of the fire by burning vegetation between the boundary and the edge of the fire. In the afternoon, there was a spot fire near Red Hill which prompted control measures to prevent the fire from gaining momentum and running uphill. Personnel worked into the evening hours to ensure the fire was confined on the northwest side of the hill. Meanwhile, on the west side of the fire, about 40 acres burned on Laws Hill.
An 8-person crew from the Southwest Fire Use Training Academy is assigned to this incident. They are obtaining on-site training with experienced incident personnel to gather key information on fuels, fire behavior and weather to assist managers in decision making. Additional resources on this incident include: 3 engines, 1 Type 3 helicopter, 1 water tender and 1 dozer.
There is a change in the general forecast for the weekend with partly cloudy skies, cooler temperatures and breezy conditions.
The Marteen Wildland Fire Use started by lightning Aug. 7 and grew to 700 acres before going dormant during monsoon rains. Renewed fire activity began Oct. 15.
For additional information, please contact Punky Moore, Fire Information Officer, (928-635-5653). Information is also available at http://www.inciweb.org/incident/1470/ (http://www.inciweb.org/incident/1470/ )
-USFS-
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Date: October 31, 2008
WILDLAND USE FIRE IMPROVING OVER 7000 ACRES ON KAIBAB NATIONAL FOREST
For Immediate Release Oct. 30, 2008
Contact: Punky Moore 928-635-5653
Marteen Wildland Fire Use Fire Continues To Spread, Improve Forest Health
WILLIAMS, Ariz. – Kaibab National Forest firefighters are continuing to manage the now 7,181-acre Marteen Wildland Fire Use Fire, which has been actively spreading through ponderosa pine, pinyon/juniper and grass about 15 miles northeast of Williams just north of Sitgreaves Mountain.
The fire is meeting resource managers’ goals of reducing fuel buildup on the forest floor, decreasing the risk of future high-intensity wildland fires, increasing plant diversity, and allowing fire to play a more natural role within a fire-adapted ecosystem.
A smoke column from the Marteen fire is visible from Williams, Interstate 40 and Flagstaff. Better ventilation conditions are helping to lift the smoke up and away from local communities.
Firefighters are burning fuels between the fire and its designated boundaries to help ensure that private property within the area is protected. These burned out areas will also help keep the fire within its predetermined perimeter.
With dry and warm weather conditions predicted, Kaibab National Forest fire managers said they expect the Marteen fire to remain active and continue growing. Firefighters will continue to actively manage the Marteen fire’s growth as long as it remains beneficial to forest resources.
The lightning-caused Marteen Wildland Fire Use Fire started Aug. 7 and grew to 700 acres before going dormant during monsoon rains. Renewed fire activity began Oct. 15.
For addition information, please contact Punky Moore at (928) 635-5653
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Date: October 30, 2008
PRESCOTT PRESCRIBED BURNS UPDATE
For Immediate Release October 30, 2008 Contact: Debbie Maneely (928) 443-8130
Prescribed Burning – November 3 through November 7
PRESCOTT, AZ (October 30, 2008)—Prescott National Forest fire officials have scheduled two possible prescribed burn projects during the week of November 3 through November 7; weather conditions permitting. Burns will be decided based on favorable weather and fuels conditions in each area.
The following prescribed burns are planned:
Ash Creek - approximately 2500 acres is scheduled. The burn is located in the Ash Creek area south of Palace Station. Possible road delays on Forest Road 52 and County Road 177. (T12N, R1W, S19, 31, 32, 33)
Bean Peaks – approximately 350 acres of broadcast maintenance burn is scheduled to complete the Bean Peaks project. Signs will be posted along Highway 89 warning drivers of the prescribed burn and of possible smoke. Vehicles traveling on School House Gulch Road and Marapai Road should be cautious due to smoke and possible delays. (T13N, R2W, S20 & 21)
A broadcast maintenance burn consists of fire applied within well defined boundaries in an area that has been treated previously.
Prescribed burns help remove dead vegetation, invigorate the plant and animal communities, promote a healthy watershed and will help return fire to its natural role in the ecosystem. These burns are part of an ongoing fuels reduction project to reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfire on the Prescott National Forest.
As always, public and firefighter safety is our top priority. For current information on prescribed burns visit http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott (http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott ) or call the Prescott National Forest fire information line at 928-777-5799.
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Date: October 29, 2008
KAIBAB CONTINUES TO MANAGE MARTEEN WILDLAND USE FIRE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Oct. 29, 2008
CONTACT: Punky Moore 928-635-5653
Marteen Wildland Fire Use Update
WILLIAMS, Ariz – The Marteen Wildland Fire Use 15 miles northeast of Williams remains active and continues to spread along the Coxcomb Ridge System. It is 5,434 acres.
Tuesday, personnel took actions to protect heritage resources and slow fire spread as it continues moving toward private property. Firefighters burned the fuels between a dozer line along the forest boundary and the southern edge of the fire. In addition to operations on the ground, personnel used aerial ignitions to burn the ridge between Little Squaw and Squaw Mountain.
Similar operations will take place Wednesday as personnel continue to reinforce the fireline eastward until it reaches County Road 144. Resources assigned to the incident include 14 personnel, two engines, one dozer and one helicopter.
“Personnel successfully carried out one of the planned management actions on this incident Tuesday to reduce dangerous fuels and protect private property. While smoke is an issue, we hope people understand the importance of reintroducing fire in a fire adapted ecosystem to help protect communities and improve forest health,” said Martie Schramm, Williams District Ranger.
The Marteen Wildland Fire Use started by lightning Aug. 7 and grew to 700 acres before going dormant under monsoon rains. Fire personnel observed renewed fire activity Oct. 15.
Fire managers expect the fire to remain active within the boundaries of the planned management area as long as the weather stays dry and warm. The existing weather conditions are predicted to continue for several days with temperatures in the 70s, low humidity and light winds.
For additional information, please contact Punky Moore, Fire Information Officer, (928-635-5653).
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Date: October 28, 2008
MARTEEN WILDLAND USE FIRE CONTINUES ON KAIBAB NATIONAL FOREST
For Immediate Release Oct. 28, 2008
Contact: Punky Moore 928-635-5653
Marteen Wildland Fire Use Update
WILLIAMS, Ariz – Fire personnel on the Kaibab National Forest continue to manage the Marteen Wildland Fire Use for resource benefits 15 miles northeast of Williams. It is spreading at a steady pace along the Coxcomb Ridge System and is 4,452 acres.
One of the steps taken in managing a fire for resource benefits is determining the area that the fire will be allowed to burn. When establishing the boundary, managers take into consideration natural and man-made barriers, such as roads and ridges, that will help hinder rapid fire spread. The Marteen continues to grow within the management area planned for this incident.
As the fire reaches specific locations within the management area – called management action points – personnel take measures to slow, stop or redirect fire spread. The fire arrived at one of these management action points Monday when it bumped Forest Road 712. Tuesday, personnel will take actions to reinforce a fireline southeast of the fire along the boundary between the Kaibab National Forest and private property.
The Marteen Wildland Fire Use started by lightning Aug. 7 and grew to 700 acres before going dormant under monsoon rains. Fire personnel observed renewed fire activity Oct. 15.
Fire managers expect the fire to remain active within the boundaries of the planned management area as long as the weather stays dry and warm. The existing weather conditions are predicted to continue for several days with temperatures in the 70s, low humidity and light winds.
For additional information, please contact Punky Moore, Fire Information Officer, (928-635-5653).
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Date: October 28, 2008
NEW WILDFIRES INTERRUPT PRESCOTT FOREST PRESCRIBED BURNS
For Immediate ReleaseOctober 28, 2007
Contact: Debbie Maneely (928) 443-8130
South Spruce Fire
PRESCOTT, AZ (October 28, 2007) - The South Spruce Fire was reported on Monday, October 28 at 4:30 pm. The 22 acre fire is burning slash piles in a previous thinning area. The South Spruce Fire is the cause of smoke in the surrounding communities, including downtown Prescott. Located approximately 8 miles south of Prescott burning near South Spruce Ridge, the fire is of no threat to homes in the area. Firefighters from Central Yavapai, The City of Prescott, Groom Creek Fire Department, and a Department of Corrections crew are assisting Forest Service personnel. Fire fighters have a line around the perimeter and expect containment later this afternoon. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
A second fire was also reported on Monday, October 28 at 5:00 pm. The Union Fire was ¾ of an acre burning near the Mt. Union Lookout. Fire fighters quickly suppressed it and will continue to monitor the area today. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Prescott National Forest fire officials have postponed prescribed burning projects for the remainder of the week on the forest.
As always, public and firefighter safety is our top priority. For current information on prescribed burns visit http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott (http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott ) or call the Prescott National Forest fire information line at 928-777-5799.
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Date: October 28, 2008
PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST CONTROLS ONE FIRE, RESUMES CONTROLLED BURNS
For Immediate Release October 28, 2007
Contact: Debbie Maneely (928) 443-8130
South Spruce Fire Update/Prescribed Fire Update
PRESCOTT, AZ (October 28, 2007) - The South Spruce Fire was reported on Monday, October 27 at 4:30 pm. The 22 acre fire is burning slash piles in a previous thinning area. Firefighters have secured a line around the perimeter of the fire will continue to mop up. Containment is now expected Wednesday afternoon. The fire is located approximately 8 miles south of Prescott burning near South Spruce Ridge, the fire is of no threat to homes in the area. There are approximately 55 firefighters from Central Yavapai, The City of Prescott, Groom Creek Fire Department, Department of Corrections and the Forest Service helping to suppress the fire. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Prescott National Forest fire officials have scheduled a prescribed burn for Wednesday, October 29; weather conditions permitting and ADEQ approval. The Cherry/Poweel springs burn is approximately 250 acres of broadcast maintenance burn and is located south of Mingus Mountain near the Powell Springs Campground (T14N, R3E, S19). A broadcast maintenance burn consists of fire applied within well defined boundaries in an area that has been treated previously.
Fire officials hope to complete the Beans Peaks burn sometime next week. Firefighters completed approximately 200 acres on Monday, October 27 and only need 350 to complete the burn. After the Bean Peaks burn is completed, there will be no more prescribed burns scheduled in the Prescott Basin this fall.
As always, public and firefighter safety is our top priority. For current information on prescribed burns visit http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott (http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott ) or call the Prescott National Forest fire information line at 928-777-5799.
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Date: October 27, 2008
PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST PLANS WEEK-LONG PRESCRIBED BURN PROJECTS
For Immediate Release October 24, 2008
Contact: Debbie Maneely (928) 443-8130
Prescribed Burning – October 27 through November 2
PRESCOTT, AZ (October 24, 2008)—Prescott National Forest fire officials have scheduled three possible prescribed burn projects during the week of October 27 through November 2; weather conditions permitting. Burns will be decided based on favorable weather and fuels conditions in each area.
The following prescribed burns are planned:
Ash Creek - approximately 2500 acres is scheduled for Wednesday, October 29 through Sunday, November 2. The burn is located in the Ash Creek area south of Palace Station. Possible road delays on Forest Road 52 and County Road 177. (T12N, R1W, S19, 31, 32, 33)
Bean Peaks – approximately 600 acres of broadcast maintenance burn is scheduled for Monday, October 27 in the Bean Peaks area just south of Prescott. Signs will be posted along Highway 89 warning drivers of the prescribed burn and of possible smoke. Vehicles traveling on School House Gulch Road and Marapai Road should be cautious due to smoke and possible delays. (T13N, R2W, S20 & 21)
Cherry/Powell Springs - approximately 250 acres of broadcast maintenance burn is scheduled for Tuesday, October 28. The burn is south of Mingus Mountain, near the Powell Springs Campground. (T14N, R3E, S19)
A broadcast maintenance burn consists of fire applied within well defined boundaries in an area that has been treated previously.
Prescribed burns help remove dead vegetation, invigorate the plant and animal communities, promote a healthy watershed and will help return fire to its natural role in the ecosystem. These burns are part of an ongoing fuels reduction project to reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfire on the Prescott National Forest.
As always, public and firefighter safety is our top priority. For current information on prescribed burns visit http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott (http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott ) or call the Prescott National Forest fire information line at 928-777-5799.
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Date: October 25, 2008
KAIBAB STILL MANAGING MARTEEN WILDLAND USE FIRE
For Immediate Release Oct. 25, 2008
Contact: Punky Moore 928-635-5653
Marteen Wildland Fire Use Update
WILLIAMS, Ariz – The Marteen Wildland Fire Use, 15 miles northeast of Williams, continues to spread actively south and west along the Coxcomb Ridge System. The fire is now 2,982 acres. Smoke from the fire can be seen from I-40, State Highway 64 and outlying areas as it drifts to the east.
The Marteen Wildland Fire Use started by lightning Aug. 7 and grew to 700 acres before going dormant under monsoon rains. Fire personnel observed renewed fire activity Oct. 15.
One of the steps taken in managing a fire for resource benefits is determining the area in which the fire will be allowed to burn for resource benefits. When establishing the boundary, managers take into consideration natural and man-made barriers, such as roads and ridges, that will help hinder rapid fire spread. The Marteen continues to grow within the management area planned for this incident.
As the fire reaches specific locations within the management area, personnel take measures to slow, stop or redirect fire spread. Currently, actions are taking place to create a buffer between the leading edge of the fire and private property in Spring Valley, north of I-40. Other actions taken on the incident to date include protecting archaeological sites, preventing rapid-fire spread upslope on Squaw Mountain and pre-emptive burning around private property to the north in advance of fire spread.
Fire managers expect the fire to remain active within the boundaries of the planned management area under the current dry and warm weather pattern. The existing weather conditions are predicted to continue for several days with temperatures in the 70s, low humidity and light winds.
For additional information, please contact Punky Moore, Fire Information Officer, (928-635-5653).
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Date: October 25, 2008
KAIBAB NATIONAL FOREST WRAPS UP PRESCRIBED BURN PROJECT
For Immediate Release Oct. 25, 2008
Contact: Punky Moore 928-635-5653
Kaibab National Forest Completes City Prescribed Burning for the Season
WILLIAMS, Ariz. – Fire managers with the Kaibab National Forest announce the completion of prescribed burning in the City Project for this season. Several projects around Williams were accomplished before seasonal weather started creating strong nightime inversions that prevent good smoke dispersal.
At the beginning of the prescribed fire season, fire managers said burning would occur on the City Project over five separate days. Ultimately, given changing fall weather, fuel conditions and burning opportunities, personnel worked a total of four days on the City Project east and west of Williams.
Personnel burned in the following units on the City Project: Cataract Lake (167 acres), North Tracks (157 acres), Signal Hill (500 acres) and Dogtown and City (541 acres).
Our prescribed fire program is an important part of our overall land management plan. Our prescribed fire objectives are reduce hazardous fuel buildup, protect communities and improve forest health. We appreciate the community’s patience and tolerance to smoke during the prescribed burning season.
For more information, please contact Punky Moore (928-635-5653).
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Date: September 3, 2008
Kaibab National Forest To Begin Prescribed Burn on Williams Ranger District
For Immediate Release September 2, 2008
Contact: Punky Moore 928-635-5653
Fire managers with the Kaibab National Forest plan to begin a prescribed burn project on the Williams Ranger District this week. Fuels specialists on the forest have determined that conditions are appropriate to begin a prescribed burn located in the Bennett Springs area south of the Williams Ranger District Office. The pile burning project will involve the ignition of woodpiles that resulted from earlier thinning in the area.
We understand that smoke created while we accomplish our fall burning projects impacts people in our community. We strive to limit the frequency with which we impact people’s lives with smoke.
We also strive to keep community members, particularly those with sensitivities to smoke, informed of our plans and activities. In our efforts to protect the community from the threat of future large fires, we appreciate the community’s tolerance to some smoke during our prescribed burning season.
The piles will be monitored daily by forest fire crews to control spread. This project will help to ensure that future fires in the area remain at a lower level of intensity, providing protection for firefighters and nearby residences.
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Date: July 18, 2008
BLM TO LIFT RESTRICTIONS FOR PHOENIX AREA
For Immediate Release
Contacts: Pamela Mathis (623)580- 5509; (602)402-7690 cell;
Ken Shaver (623) 580-5578; (602) 320-8190 cell; ken_shaver@blm.gov
BLM Phoenix District Lifts Fire Restrictions
PHOENIX, Ariz., July 17, 2008 - Effective July 21, 2008 at 6:00 a.m., the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Phoenix District will lift fire restrictions on public lands in south-central and central Arizona under the jurisdiction of the BLM Phoenix District. The recent onset of the summer monsoon has brought substantial moisture and higher relative humidity to most areas significantly reducing the risk of large wildfires.
Visitors are reminded that the potential to start a wildfire still exists since not all areas have received significant rainfall. Please keep the following in mind and use caution when recreating on your public lands:
• Campfire Use: The area within 5 feet of a campfire, cook stove or lantern should be clear of vegetation or other flammable material. Never leave a campfire unattended and ensure that campfires are completely out and cold before leaving your campsite.
• Smoking: Smokers need to extinguish and discard their cigarette and cigars properly. The use of ashtrays is strongly encouraged.
• Equipment Operations: Ensure that the proper spark arrestor devices are in place when operating chainsaws, off-highway vehicles or other spark producing equipment. A fire extinguisher must be on hand when using a welder or torch in the field.
• Motorized Use: Always stay on roads and only park in areas void of vegetation. Direct contact or sparks from hot catalytic converters can ignite dry grass.
The BLM appreciates your cooperation in protecting the public lands. For more information on wildfire prevention and fire safety contact the Phoenix District at (623) 580-5500. A recorded message on fire restrictions throughout the Southwest is available toll free at 1-877-864-6985. Current fire information can also be found on-line at www.azfireinfo.com or http://gacc.nifc.gov/swcc/. (http://gacc.nifc.gov/swcc/. )
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Date: July 10, 2008
ARIZONA GAME AND FISH LIFTS RESTRICTION FOR NORTHERN WILDLIFE AREAS
Arizona Game and Fish Department News Release
For immediate release July 9, 2008
PHOENIX – The Arizona Game and Fish Department has rescinded its fire restrictions on wildlife areas in the northland to correspond to the lifting of fire restrictions on the Prescott, Coconino and Tonto national forests.
State wildlife officials said that while fire restrictions can sometimes get confusing this time of year, there is a logic that is followed.
“If a state wildlife area is located within a national forest that has rescinded fire restrictions, then just expect the Game and Fish Department to follow suit and lift its restrictions,” said Field Operations Director Mike Senn.
“On the flip side,” Senn explained, “Many of the desert jurisdictions such as the Bureau of Land Management areas in the desert or along the Colorado River still have fire restrictions in place, so you can expect corresponding state wildlife areas such as the one at Alamo Lake to retain their restrictions as well.”
The Game and Fish Department has now lifted fire restrictions at:
• Lamar Haines Wildlife Area
• Raymond Ranch Wildlife Area
• Sunflower Flat Wildlife Area
• Roosevelt Lake Wildlife Area
• Three Bar Wildlife Area
Those state wildlife areas with fire restrictions still in place are:
• Alamo Lake Wildlife Area
• Arlington Wildlife Area (Maricopa County)
• Base and Meridian Wildlife Area (Maricopa County)
• Colorado River Nature Center
• Mittry Lake Wildlife Area (Yuma area)
• Powers Butte Wildlife Area
• Quigley Wildlife Area (Yuma area)
• Robbins Butte Wildlife Area
• Upper Verde Wildlife Area
In those affected wildlife areas, no open fires are allowed – including charcoal-burning barbecues. Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle, is prohibited. However, you can still us gas and propane stoves, lanterns or heating devices.
“These are pretty much the same restrictions you will see on the national forests and other locations. It’s all simple and straightforward – enjoy the outdoors but take the simple precautions to be safe out there,” Senn said.
Remember that just because fire restrictions have been lifted for many areas, this is still the fire season. “Fire Weather Watches” are issued when there is a possibility of critical fire weather conditions and you should listen for later forecasts and possible red flag warnings.
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Date: July 10, 2008
RESTRICTIONS END AT FIVE ARIZONA STATE WILDLIFE AREAS
STATE OF ARIZONA
GAME AND FISH DEPARTMENT
PROCLAMATION
As the Director of the Arizona Game and Fish Department and under the Authority of the Arizona Game and Fish Commission Rule R12-4-801 .E, I hereby rescind the restrictions on the following Arizona Game and Fish Department Wildlife Areas as described in Rule R12-4-80 3) . The restrictions are removed effective July 9, 2008 . The lifting of these restrictions does not override normal Wildlife Area restrictions as established in R12-4-802.
OPEN FIRES ARE ALLOWED:
In accordance to R 12-4-802. See individual Wildlife Area Restrictions for information on whichWildlife Areas allow open fires.
SMOKING ALLOWED:
Please use your ashtray
Restrictions are removed from the following Wildlife Areas:
House Rock Wildlife Area
Lamar Haines Wildlife Area
Roosevelt Lake Wildlife Area
Sunflower Flat Wildlife Area
Three Bar Wildlife Area
Larry d. Voyle, director
Arizona Game and Fish Department
AN EQUAL
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Date: July 8, 2008
PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST LIFTS FIRE RESTRICTIONS
For Immediate Release: July 7, 2008 Contact: Debbie Maneely (928) 443-8130
Prescott National Forest Lifts Fire Restrictions
PRESCOTT, AZ (July 7, 2008) – Continued moisture and high humidity have sufficiently lowered fire danger levels throughout the Prescott National Forest allowing officials to lift current fire restrictions on Wednesday, July 9 at 6 a.m.
Forest officials would like to remind visitors to be safe when recreating on the Forest. Always use caution with all campfires; never leave your campfire unattended and ensure your fire is completely out before leaving.
For current information on fire restrictions, closures or wildfires on the Prescott National Forest, call 928-777-5799, or visit http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott. (http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott. ) For further information about fire restrictions on public lands in Arizona and New Mexico, call toll free 1-877-864-6985.
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Date: July 8, 2008
TONTO NATIONAL FOREST LIFTS FIRE RESTRICTIONS
For Immediate Release: July 7, 2008
Contact: Fire Information Officer, 602-225-1042
Tonto National Forest lifts fire restrictions
PHOENIX (July 7, 2008) – All campfire and smoking restrictions affecting the Tonto National Forest will be lifted, effective Wednesday, July 9, 8 a.m.
The fire restrictions, which covered the entire forest, are no longer needed because fire danger has been reduced by increased moisture and humidity from the annual monsoon season. These wetter conditions prompted officials to lift forest fire restrictions.
“Although campfires and smoking will now be allowed throughout the forest, visitors should properly extinguish cigarettes in ashtrays, and ashes in a campfire ring should be cold enough to touch before they are left,” said Tonto NF Fire Staff Officer Clay Templin. “Campfires should be put out by drowning with water and stirring with a shovel to ensure the fire is cold.”
Forest Supervisor Gene Blankenbaker extended special thanks to the visiting public during the fire restrictions which began May 8. “We want to thank everyone for their patience and understanding while we had to restrict access and activities on the Tonto during this fire season. We appreciate our visitors’ support of the restrictions. Arizona had a challenging fire season that was made a little easier by the small number of human-caused fires.”
For more information, visit the Tonto website at www.fs.fed.us/r3/tonto or call 602.225.5200.
For further information about restrictions throughout Arizona, please go to the following websites: Southwest Coordination Center http://gacc.nifc.gov/swcc (http://gacc.nifc.gov/swcc )
or http://www.publiclands.org/firenews/AZ.php (http://www.publiclands.org/firenews/AZ.php ) or call 1-877-864-6985.
Useful Web sites:
Arizona Fire News: http://www.publiclands.org/firenews/AZ.php (http://www.publiclands.org/firenews/AZ.php )
Incident Information System (nationwide): http://inciweb.org/ (http://inciweb.org/ )
National Interagency Fire Center: www.nifc.gov
National Fire Plan: www.fireplan.gov
FireWise: www.firewise.org
National Incident Information Center: www.fs.fed.us/news/fire
Arizona Governor’s Forest Health Council: www.governor.state.az.us/FHC
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Date: July 7, 2008
COCONINO AND KAIBAB NATIONAL FORESTS LIFTING RESTRICTIONS JULY 9TH
For Immediate Release July 7, 2008
Contact: Punky Moore, 928 635-5653
Contact: Karen Malis-Clark, 928 527-3492
RESTRICTIONS TO BE LIFTED ON COCONINO AND KAIBAB NATIONAL FORESTS
FLAGSTAFF, AZ—Campfire and smoking restrictions will be lifted on the Coconino and Kaibab National Forests beginning Wednesday, July 9 at 8 a.m. Recent rains have lowered fire danger on both forests, thus decreasing the risk of major wildfires.
“Although campfires and smoking will be allowed throughout the two forests, people should properly extinguish cigarettes in ash trays and ashes in a campfire ring should be cold enough to touch before they are left,” says Coconino Fire Staff Officer Bruce Greco. “Campfires should be put out by drowning with water and stirring with a shovel.”
Forest visitors are also reminded that some campfire restrictions are always in effect, such as in forested areas within city limits of most northern Arizona communities and within Oak Creek Canyon.
As always, forest managers are asking visitors to follow the Leave No Trace principle: pack it in, pack it out. Inspect your campsite and rest areas for trash or spilled foods. Pack out all trash, leftover food, and litter.
For additional information about fire restrictions on public lands in Arizona and New Mexico, call toll free 1-877-864-6985.
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Date: July 7, 2008
OFFICIAL ORDER LIFTING RESTRICTIONS IN TONTO NATIONAL FOREST
Order Number 12-08-230
EMERGENCY FIRE RESTRICTIONS TERMINATION ORDER
Pursuant to Title 16 USC 551 and Title 36 CFR 261.50 (a) and (b), all prohibitions listed in Order Number 12-08-230, affecting areas, roads, and trails of the Tonto National Forest, Maricopa, Gila, Yavapai, and Pinal Counties, Arizona, dated May 5, 2008, and signed by Gene Blankenbaker are hereby rescinded and terminated; effective 8:00 AM, Wednesday, July 9, 2008.
Done this 7th day of July, 2008, at Phoenix, Arizona.
GENE BLANKENBAKER
Forest Supervisor
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Date: July 1, 2008
STATE SETS FIRE RESTRICTIONS FOR COCONINO COUNTY
News Release July 1, 2008
ARIZONA STATE FORESTRY DIVISION
OFFICE OF THE STATE FORESTER
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Judy Wood, Fire Information
Arizona State Forestry Division
(602) 255-4059
FIRE RESTRICTIONS IN EFFECT ON STATE TRUST LANDS
PHOENIX, ARIZONA – The Office of the State Forester will implement fire and smoking restrictions starting at 12:00 PM on Tuesday, July 1, 2008, in cooperation with the Coconino and Kaibab National Forests.
The restrictions have become necessary due to developing hot, dry weather along with annual plant growth which contributes to an increasing fire danger. These conditions greatly increase the risk of major wildfires.
The restrictions will apply to All State Trust Lands within Coconino County, up to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. The restrictions will remain in effect until July 31, 2008 or until further notice.
The restrictions are as follows:
• Building, maintaining, or using a fire, campfire, or charcoal burning device except as specifically permitted by the State Forester on a case by case basis is prohibited. Petroleum fueled stoves, lanterns, or heating devices are exempt from these restrictions.
• Using fireworks as defined in ARS § 36-1601 is prohibited.
• Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle, building, developed campground, or stopped in an area at least 10 feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials is prohibited.
• Welding or operating acetylene or other torch with an open flame is prohibited.
These restrictions apply to all permits and leases issued by the State Land Department and holders of hunting and fishing licenses.
Any state, federal, or local fire or law enforcement officer, or member of an organized firefighting force is exempt from these prohibitions while in the performance of their official firefighting duties.
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Date: July 1, 2008
BLM'S KINGMAN FIELD OFFICE LANDS ADDED TO RESTRICTIONS LIST
For Release: June 30, 2008
Contacts: Chad Benson, Fire Prevention Officer (928) 718-3750
Keep Wildfire Out of Fourth of July Festivities
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Fire Management Program would like to remind people headed outdoors for the Fourth of July weekend getaway that Arizona public, state, and private lands are dry and fire risk is extreme in most areas.
“Western Arizona has yet to see a large wildfire this season,” said Gary Cook, Assistant Fire Management Officer for BLM in Kingman. “But the potential is here now.”
“We’re urging all recreationists to be aware of their surroundings, their actions, and most of all to observe the Fire Restrictions that will be in effect beginning July 1st,” Cook added. “Right now there are several large fires burning in central and eastern Arizona, this combined with the large number of fires burning in northern California has our resources stretched thin. We ask that when people get out and enjoy their public lands they remember that Mother Nature doesn’t need any help from them in getting fires started ... and for everyone to be especially careful and have a safe and fun Fourth of July Weekend.”
Current Fire Restrictions include:
1. No open fires will be allowed. This includes campfires, barbeque grills using charcoal or wood or any other use of open fires. Pressurized liquid or gas stoves, lanterns and heaters will only be allowed on Mohave County Park Lands and in designated numbered campsites in the following BLM campgrounds: Burro Creek Campground, Wild Cow Springs Campground, Windy Point Campground and Packsaddle Campground.
2. Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building or stopped in an area at least 10 feet in diameter that is void of all flammable materials.
3. The use of fireworks, flares, or other incendiary devices is strictly prohibited.
Cook concluded that people are encouraged to participate in community sponsored fireworks events and to
not set off fireworks on public, state, or private lands.
To report a wildfire or illegal fire use, please call State Fire Dispatch at (800) 309-7081 or the Kingman Field Office at (928) 718-3700.
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Date: June 30, 2008
OFFICIAL ORDER: COCONINO NATIONAL FOREST RESTRICTIONS
Order Number: 04-08-05-TF
ORDER: STAGE 1 FIRE RESTRICTIONS, COCONINO NATIONAL FOREST
Pursuant to 16 U.S.C. 551,and 36 CFR § 261.50(a), the following acts are prohibited on all National Forest System lands within the Coconino National Forest, in the following counties with the state of Arizona: Coconino, Yavapai and Gila. The restricted area is depicted on the attached map, hereby incorporated into this Order as Exhibit A.
PROHIBITIONS:
1. Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire, charcoal, coal, or wood stove, except within a
developed recreation site, or improved site; 36 CFR § 261.52(a).
2. Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site; 36 CFR § 261.52(d).
AREA DESCRIPTION:
This area affects National Forest Lands within the exterior boundary of the Coconino National Forest.
EXEMPTIONS:
Pursuant to 36 CFR § 261.50(e), the following persons are exempt from this order:
1. The use of petroleum-fueled stoves, lanterns or heating devices providing such devices meet the fire underwriter’s specifications for safety is allowed.
2. Persons with a Forest Service permit specifically authorizing the prohibited act or omission.
This Order is necessary to protect public health and safety due to the fire danger.
This Order becomes effective at 8:00 AM, July 1, 2008 and will remain in force until rescinded or until August 14, 2008, whichever event occurs first. This Order rescinds, replaces and supersedes Order No 04-08-04-TF.
Done at Flagstaff, Arizona, this 30th day of June 2008.
NORA B. RASURE Forest Supervisor Coconino National Forest
Violations of these regulations is punishable as a Class B misdemeanor, by a fine of not more than $5000 for an individual or $10,000 for an organization, or imprisonment for not more than six (6) months or both; 16 USC § 551, and 18 USC §§ 3559 and 3571.
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Date: June 27, 2008
COCONINO NATIONAL FOREST TO EXPAND RESTRICTIONS JULY 1ST
NEWS RELEASE USDA Forest Service Coconino National Forest
www.fs.fed.us/r3/coconino
For Immediate Release June 26, 2008
Contact: Karen Malis-Clark 928-527-3492
Campfire Restrictions for Entire Coconino National Forest
Flagstaff, AZ – Campfire and smoking restrictions across the entire Coconino National Forest will be implemented starting Tuesday, July 1 at 8:00am.
Fires, campfires, woodstove and charcoal fires will be allowed only in developed campgrounds and picnic areas. Use of petroleum-fueled stoves, lanterns, and heating devices meeting safety specifications will be allowed. Smoking will be permitted within an enclosed vehicle or building or in a developed recreation area. Fireworks are always prohibited on National Forest lands.
Forest officials consider several factors in determining the need for fire restrictions, according to Coconino National Forest Fire Staff Officer Bruce Greco. “With the long July 4 weekend coming up, there will be increase of dispersed campers. The weather forecast indicates sustained monsoon moisture is not yet imminent, and there’s increasing wildfire activity regionally and nationally.”
These restrictions are deemed necessary to protect public safety and prevent human-caused wildland fire starts. The restrictions will remain in effect until forest officials determine that conditions have changed sufficiently to reduce the risk of a human-caused wildfire, usually with the onset of widespread summer monsoon rains.
Violation of these prohibitions is punishable by a fine of not more than $5,000, imprisonment of not more than 6 months, or both.
For current information on fire restrictions on the Coconino National Forest call 928-527-3600 or http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/coconino. (http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/coconino. ) For additional information about fire restrictions on public lands in Arizona and New Mexico, call toll free 1-877-864-6985
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Date: June 26, 2008
MOHAVE COUNTY ADDED TO STATE TRUST LANDS FIRE RESTRICTIONS
ARIZONA STATE FORESTRY DIVISION
OFFICE OF THE STATE FORESTER
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 1, 2008
FOR MORE INFORMATION: Judy Wood, (602) 255-4059
Fire Information Arizona State Forestry Division
FIRE RESTRICTIONS IN EFFECT ON STATE TRUST LANDS PHOENIX, ARIZONA – The Office of the State Forester will implement fire and smoking restrictions starting at 1:00 AM on Tuesday, July 1, 2008, in cooperation with BLM and the Hualapai Mountain Park.
The restrictions have become necessary due to developing hot, dry weather along with annual plant growth which contributes to an increasing fire danger. These conditions greatly increase the risk of major wildfires.
The restrictions will apply to All State Trust Lands within Mohave County. The restrictions will remain in effect until July 31, 2008 or until further notice.
The restrictions are as follows:
• Building, maintaining, or using a fire, campfire, or charcoal burning device except as specifically permitted by the State Forester on a case by case basis is prohibited. Petroleum fueled stoves, lanterns, or heating devices are exempt from these restrictions.
• Using fireworks as defined in ARS § 36-1601 is prohibited.
• Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle, building, developed campground, or stopped in an area at least 10 feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials is prohibited.
• Welding or operating acetylene or other torch with an open flame is prohibited.
These restrictions apply to all permits and leases issued by the State Land Department and holders of hunting and fishing licenses.
Any state, federal, or local fire or law enforcement officer, or member of an organized firefighting force is exempt from these prohibitions while in the performance of their official firefighting duties.
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Date: June 25, 2008
ARIZONA STRIP LANDS IN ARIZONA AND UTAH ENTER RESTRICTIONS
For Immediate Release: June 25, 2008
Contacts:
State - Mike Melton, 435-586-4408
UT.BLM - Nick Howell, 435-865-3026
AZ.BLM - Scott Sticha, 435-688-3303
ZION N.P.: David Eaker, 435-772-7811
USFS: Kenton Call, 435-865-3730
BIA: Jeremy Ybright, 435-674-9720
Color Country and Arizona Strip to Implement Fire Restrictions
South Color Country Area Lands in Fire Restrictions
Due to high fire danger in southwest Utah and northwest Arizona beginning Monday, June 30 at 12:01 a.m., Color Country Interagency Fire Management officials will implement fire restrictions on the Bureau of Land Management Utah Color Country District and the Bureau of Land Management Arizona Strip District, the Bureau of Indian Affairs Southern Paiute Agency region, the United States Forest Service Pine Valley Ranger District of the Dixie National Forest and Zion National Park as well as on unincorporated state and private lands in Washington County Utah. This order does not apply to incorporated towns and cities.
The following acts will be prohibited in the above mentioned areas beginning Monday, June 30, at 12:01 a.m. and will be in effect until further notice:
1. Setting, building, maintaining, attending or using open fire of any kind, except campfires and charcoal fires within approved fire pits and grills provided for in developed recreation sites and picnic areas and permanently improved places of habitation that meet certain specifications or except as otherwise authorized. Devices fueled by petroleum or LPG products are allowed in all locations.
2. Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle, camp trailer, building, developed recreation site or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared to mineral soil.
3. Discharging, or using any kind of fireworks, tracer ammunition or other incendiary devices in any location on federal, state and unincorporated private lands. (Note that these acts are always prohibited on state and federal lands.)
4. In addition to the above; the cutting, welding or grinding of metal in areas of dry vegetation (on unincorporated state and private lands in Utah)
All other fire restrictions or necessary exemptions to the restrictions will be handled through local "permits" issued by the responsible agency for that purpose.
For more information log on to www.utahfireinfo.gov.
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Date: June 25, 2008
KAIBAB NATIONAL FOREST OFFICIAL ORDER FOR WILLIAMS, TUSAYAN DISTRICTS
Order Number: 07-08-01-TF
ORDER: FIRE RESTRICTIONS, KAIBAB NATIONAL FOREST
Williams and Tusayan Ranger Districts
Pursuant to 16 U.S.C. 551,and 36 CFR § 261.50(a), the following acts are prohibited on National Forest System lands within the Williams and Tusayan Ranger District, Kaibab National Forest, in the following counties (Coconino and Yavapai) within the state of Arizona (“the restricted area”). The restricted area is depicted on the attached map, hereby incorporated into this Order as Exhibits A.1, and A.2.
PROHIBITIONS:
1. Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire, charcoal, coal, or wood stove, except within a developed recreation site, or improved site; 36 CFR § 261.52(a).
2 Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, or a developed recreation site; 36 CFR § 261.52(d).
Area Description:
Williams Ranger District
North from Interstate 40 at Bellemont North of Highway 180, West to just before Highway 64.
From the southern end of Highway 64 (North from Interstate 40 at Williams) to just North of Forest Road 124, West to just north of Eagle Nest Mountain (North of Ash Fork).
South from Interstate 40 at Bellemont to Sycamore Point, then West through Sycamore Canyon Wilderness to Hells Canyon at Highway 89.
Tusayan Ranger District
From Tusayan on Highway 64 South to Forest Road 320, near Red Butte; East to the Navajo Indian Reservation, and West to Forest Road 2612, and the Havasupai Indian Reservation.
The North boundary of the Tusayan Ranger District is the Grand Canyon National Park boundary.
EXEMPTIONS:
Pursuant to 36 CFR § 261.50(e), the following persons are exempt from this order:
1. The use of petroleum-fueled stoves, lanterns or heating devices meet the fire underwriter’s specifications for safety is allowed.
2. Persons with a Forest Service permit specifically authorizing the prohibited act or omission.
This Order is necessary to protect public health and safety due to the high fire danger.
This Order becomes effective at 8:00 AM, June 25, 2008, and will remain in force until rescinded or until August 31, 2008, which ever event occurs first.
Done at Williams, Arizona, this 20th day of June 2008.
City State
EDWARD E. ARMENTA, Acting Forest Supervisor Kaibab National Forest
Violations of these regulations is punishable as a Class B misdemeanor, by a fine of not more than $5000 for an individual or $10,000 for an organization, or imprisonment for not more than six (6) months or both; 16 USC § 551, and 18 USC §§ 3559 and 3571.
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Date: June 24, 2008
KAIBAB NATIONAL FOREST TO IMPLEMENT FIRE RESTRICTIONS JUNE 25TH
For Immediate Release June 22, 2008
Contact: Punky Moore, 928-635-5653
WILLIAMS, Ariz. – Officials with the Kaibab National Forest plan to implement fire restrictions at 8 a.m. Wednesday, June 25 within the Williams and Tusayan Ranger Districts. These restrictions are deemed necessary to protect public health and safety and prevent human-caused wildland fire starts.
The restrictions will prohibit fires, campfires, charcoal, coal or wood stoves outside of developed campgrounds and limit smoking to within enclosed vehicles or buildings or in developed campgrounds.
Fireworks are always prohibited on National Forest land.
Pressurized liquid or gas stoves, lanterns, and heaters meeting safety specifications will continue to be allowed, as will campfires in developed campgrounds. “As we continue to move through fire season, conditions are becoming warmer and drier,” said Doug Ottosen, Kaibab National Forest fire staff officer. “Fire restrictions are an effective tool to prevent human-caused fires.”
The fire restrictions will remain in place until the Kaibab National Forest receives significant precipitation. Violation of the prohibitions is punishable by a fine of not more than $5,000, imprisonment for not more than six months, or both.
For current information on fire restrictions on the Kaibab National Forest, please call (928) 635- 8311 or visit www.fs.fed.us/r3/kai. For additional information about fire restrictions on public lands in
Arizona and New Mexico, call toll free 1-877-864-6985 or visit http://gacc.nifc.gov/swcc/. (http://gacc.nifc.gov/swcc/. )
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Date: June 18, 2008
COCONINO RESTRICTIONS ORDER
Order Number: 04-08-04-TF
ORDER
STAGE 1 FIRE RESTRICTIONS
COCONINO NATIONAL FOREST
RED ROCK RANGER DISTRICT
Pursuant to 16 U.S.C. 551,and 36 CFR § 261.50(a), the following acts are prohibited on all National Forest System lands within the Red Rock Ranger District of the Coconino National Forest, in the following counties with the state of Arizona: Coconino, Yavapai and Gila. The restricted area is depicted on the attached map, hereby incorporated into this Order as Exhibit A.
PROHIBITIONS:
1. Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire, charcoal, coal, or wood stove, except within a developed recreation site, or improved site; 36 CFR § 261.52(a).
2. Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site; 36 CFR § 261.52(d).
AREA DESCRIPTION:
The area affected is the southern portion of the Red Rock District as described:
Starting at the junction of Interstate 17 and Forest Road 618, southeast along Forest Road 618 to the junction with Forest Road 214, East on Forest Road 214 to the junction with the boundary between the Mogollon Rim District and the Red Rock District, South alone the district boundary to the junction with the southern Coconino Forest boundary on Fossil Creek, West along the forest boundary to the Verde River, North along the forest boundary to Sycamore Canyon, northeast along the forest boundary to the junction with the boundary between the Red Rock and the Mormon Lake Ranger Districts, East along the district boundary to the point where it intersects I-17, southwest along I-17 to the junction of I-17 and Forest Road 618.
EXEMPTIONS:
Pursuant to 36 CFR § 261.50(e), the following persons are exempt from this order:
1. The use of petroleum-fueled stoves, lanterns or heating devices providing such devices meet the fire underwriter’s specifications for safety is allowed.
2. Persons with a Forest Service permit specifically authorizing the prohibited act or omission.
This Order is necessary to protect public health and safety due to the fire danger.
This Order becomes effective at 8:00 AM, June 18, 2008, and will remain in force until rescinded or until August 14, 2008, whichever event occurs first.
Done at Flagstaff, Arizona, this 16th day of June 2008.
NORA B. RASURE
Forest Supervisor
Coconino National Forest
Violations of these regulations is punishable as a Class B misdemeanor, by a fine of not more than $5000 for an individual or $10,000 for an organization, or imprisonment for not more than six (6) months or both; 16 USC § 551, and 18 USC §§ 3559 and 3571.
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Date: June 17, 2008
COCONINO NATIONAL FOREST SETS RESTRICTIONS FOR RED ROCK RANGER DISTRICT
For Immediate Release
June 16,2008
Contact: Connie Birkland, 928-203-7505
Campfire Restrictions on Red Rock Ranger District
Flagstaff, AZ - Stage 1 campfire and smoking restrictions will be
implemented on most of the Red Rock Ranger District of the Coconino
National Forest starting on Wednesday, June 18th at 8:00am.
Fires, campfires, woodstove and charcoal fires will be allowed only in
developed campgrounds and picnic areas. Use of petroleum-fueled stoves, lanterns, and heating devices meeting safety specifications will be allowed. Smoking will be permitted within an enclosed vehicle or building or in a developed recreation area. Fireworks are always prohibited on National Forest lands.
The restrictions apply to most of the Red Rock Ranger District,
including the national forest land in the Verde Valley on the east side of the Verde River, Oak Creek Canyon, lower Sycamore Canyon, lower West Clear Creek, Fossil Creek and Bullpen. The area southeast of Interstate 17, east of Forest Road 618, and north of Forest Road 214 is not included.
"The lack of moisture and rising temperatures are increasing the
potential for wildfire in these lower elevations," said Heather Provencio, Red Rock District Ranger. "Fire danger below the Rim is Very High."
The restrictions will remain in effect until conditions have changed sufficiently to reduce the risk of a human-caused wildfire, usually with the onset of summer monsoon rains. Violations are punishable by a fine of not more than $5,000, imprisonment of not more than 6 months, or both.
For current information on fire restrictions on the Coconino National
Forest call 928-527-3600 or www.coconinoforest.us. For additional
information about fire restrictions on public lands in Arizona and New
Mexico, call toll free 1-877-864-6985
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Date: May 28, 2008
IT’S WILDFIRE SEASON—IS YOUR HOME DEFENSIBLE?
EDITORIAL:
by
Ken Palmrose, Fire Information and Prevention Officer
Arizona State Bureau Of Land Management Office
Defensible Space is more than a slogan. If you live anywhere near lands that could be involved in a wildfire, even if the chances appear remote, then you need to know what defensible space means and how to have it.
Defensible Space is the area between your home/property and an oncoming wildfire where the fuels and vegetation have been modified to reduce the wildfire threat. Having this buffer may provide firefighters the opportunity to safely and effectively defend your home or summer cabin and hopefully save it from burning to the ground. Without it, firefighters will most likely move on to the next home or cabin that is defensible. It is not worth the risk of a single firefighter’s life to try and defend the impossible.
Sometimes Defensible Space is simply a property owner’s properly maintained backyard. While in other situations, it could involve removing trees and substantial amounts of brush, weeds, grass, and shrubs. So what can you do to create Defensible Space around your home? Create a 30-100 foot "Defensible Space" safety zone.
Within 30 feet:
- Remove all dead trees!
- Remove all branches, bark chunks, firewood, and scrap lumber!
- Remove all limbs within 10 feet of chimney and ensure the wire mesh chimney cap (spark arrester) is in place!
- Remove all combustible materials from beneath decks, stairways and overhangs!
- Clean pine needles from roof and gutters!
- Cut weeds and dead grass down to two inches or shorter!
- Remove all dry, flammable vegetation within 10 feet of propane tanks!
- Ensure house numbers are visible from roads/streets day and night!
- Clean up and remove fallen pine needles BEFORE fire season and do not allow them to accumulate in any manner that creates a fire hazard!
Within 100 feet:
- Remove all dry, flammable vegetation around buildings!
- Limb all trees six feet from the ground!
- Thin or remove excessively dense trees to break up continuous vegetation!
- Coordinate and cooperate with your neighbors!
If you are physically unable to implement defensible space precepts, contact local civic groups, fire departments, land management agencies, churches, and youth groups. There is someone out there that will help. But, if you can do the work and you haven’t and you are waiting until that first wildfire gets too close---you’re are too late.
The author is retired from the USDA-Forest Service after 36 years of service and is currently on fire assignment with the BLM at the state office in Phoenix. He is an Emergency Communications Consultant and is in his 43rd fire season with his current assignment as a Fire Prevention/Public Information Officer.
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Date: May 27, 2008
LAKE MEAD NATIONAL RECREATION AREA POSTED RESTRICTIONS MAY 15TH
Fire Restrictions at Lake Mead National Recreation Area 19-08
Date: May 15, 2008
Contact: Roxanne Dey, 702-293-8691
Fire restrictions in effect at Lake Mead National Recreation Area are necessary to prevent wildfires during this period of extended drought and increased potential for wildfires in Nevada and Arizona. This restriction does not apply to National Park Service lands within the Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument.
Effective at 12:00 a.m. PDT on Friday, May 16, 2007 and until rescinded, the following acts are prohibited:
Building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire or campfire with any wood or charcoal burning device outside of a developed recreation site like a campground where a host is present and/or a fee is charged (see exceptions below).
Shoreline campfires in areas posted no campfires (ex: Boulder Beach), or in developed areas such as marinas, parking lots, and launch ramps.
Smoking outside of an enclosed vehicle or outside in any area that is not cleared of all flammable material for at least 10 feet. You must discard cigarettes in a car ashtray or an ashtray in a developed area.
Activities that will be allowed include:
Using portable stoves with gas, jellied petroleum, or pressurized liquid fuel.
Campfires with wood or charcoal burning devices will be allowed on the shoreline where natural vegetation is at least 100 feet from shoreline (except Boulder Beach, near marinas, launch ramps, parking lots, and any area posted no campfires allowed).Please extinguish all fires in windy conditions.
Wood or charcoal fires in grills at developed picnic areas.
Barbeques are allowed on private boats outside of the harbors of Lake Mead and Lake Mohave. Rental boats are authorized to use barbeques attached to the vessel if allowed under boat rental agreement. All vessel barbeque fires must be at least 100 feet away from shoreline vegetation.
The following persons are exempt from the restrictions of this Fire Prevention Order:
Persons with a permit authorizing the activity.
Any Federal, State, or local officer or member of an organized fire fighting force in the performance of an official duty.
The use of fireworks, including "safe and sane,” is prohibited at all times on all public lands including Lake Mead National Recreation Area.
Any violation of Fire Restrictions is punishable by a fine of not more than $5,000 or imprisonment of not more than 6 months, or both Title 36, Code of Federal Regulations, Section 2.13 (c) under the National Park Service.
Questions about fire restrictions at Lake Mead National Recreation Area can be directed to the Visitor Center or Park Information Desk at: 702-293-8990 or 8906.
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Date: May 23, 2008
APACHE-SITGREAVES LIFTS RECENT RESTRICTIONS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE DATE: MAY 22, 2008
CONTACT: Robert Dyson (928) 333-4301
Apache-Sitgreaves Lifts Fire Restrictions
Springerville, AZ…. The unusually wet and cold storm passing through Arizona has prompted Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests officials to lift the fire restrictions that had been initiated just days earlier.
“We’re trying to make reasonable decisions for the safety of all our visitors and residents,” said Forest Supervisor Deryl Jevons. “This wet weather is a real blessing and we hope that people enjoy this reprieve from warm and dry conditions.”
Fire restrictions may be re-instated if conditions dry out so forest users are asked to be vigilant and stay informed of any future changes. Campers are now allowed to have campfires throughout the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests. Please use caution with the use of all wood and charcoal fires. More information about fire conditions can be seen at www.593info.com or by calling the 593 information line at (928) 333-3412.
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Date: May 21, 2008
ARIZONA GAME & FISH DEPARTMENT POSTS RESTRICTIONS
For immediate release May 20, 2008
Contact: Rory Aikens (623) 236-7214
AGFD Public Information Officer
PHOENIX – If you are headed out of doors this Memorial Day holiday weekend, keep in mind that some agencies have implemented fire restrictions, including the Arizona Game and Fish Department.
Mike Senn, who heads the field operations division for Game and Fish, said people can exercise a common-sense approach to determining if any state wildlife area has fire restrictions.
“If a wildlife area is located within a national forest or other jurisdiction such as the BLM or State Land Department that has implemented fire restrictions, then just expect Game and Fish to follow suit,” Senn said. “Taking precautions is not about political boundaries, it is about habitat conditions and being safe out there.”
The Game and Fish Department has implemented restrictions at:
• Alamo Wildlife Area
• Allen Severson Wildlife Area
• Chevelon Canyon Ranches Wildlife Area
• Chevelon Creek Wildlife Area
• Colorado River Nature Center
• Jacques Marsh Wildlife Area
• Luna Lake Wildlife Area
• Mittry Lake Wildlife Area
• Upper Verde Wildlife Area
• Roosevelt Lake Wildlife Area
• Sipe White Mountain Wildlife Area
• Three Bar Wildlife Area
In those affected wildlife areas, no open fires are allowed – including charcoal-burning barbecues. Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle, is prohibited. However, you can still use gas and propane stoves, lanterns or heating devices.
“These are pretty much the same restrictions you will see on the national forests and other locations. It’s all simple and straightforward – enjoy the outdoors but take the simple precautions to be safe out there,” Senn said.
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Date: May 20, 2008
OFFICIAL ORDER FOR APACHE-SITGREAVES RESTRICTIONS
Order No. 01-08-496
EMERGENCY FIRE RESTRICTIONS
PROHIBITIONS
Pursuant to 16 USC 551 and 36 CFR 261.50 (a) and (b), the following acts and omissions are prohibited on the areas, roads, and trails as described in this Order, and as depicted on the attached map hereby incorporated into this Order as Exhibit A (the “restricted area”), all within the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests, Apache, Greenlee, Navajo, and Coconino Counties, Arizona:
1. Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire, or wood or charcoal burning stove. 36 CFR 261.52(a)
Exceptions: a) Campfires will be allowed in fire grates provided by the Forest Service in developed recreation sites as listed in Exhibit B. Gas and propane stoves, lanterns or heating devices are permitted providing such devices meet the fire underwriter’s specifications for safety.
2. Using an explosive. 36 CFR 261.52(b)
3. Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable material. 36 CFR 261.52(d)
4. Possessing, discharging or using any kind of firework or other pyrotechnic device. 36 CFR 261.52(f)
5. Operating an internal combustion engine. 36 CFR 261.52(h)
Exceptions: a) Any motor vehicle, boat or other watercraft that complies with 36 CFR 261.52(j) (spark arrestors); and b) Any gas, diesel or propane powered generator that complies with 36 CFR 261.52(j) (spark arrestors).
6. Welding, or operating acetylene or other torch with open flame. 36 CFR 261.52(i)
7. Operating or using any internal or external combustion engine without a spark arresting device properly installed, maintained and in effective working order meeting either, (1) Department of Agriculture, Forest Service Standard 5100–1a; or
(2) Appropriate Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) recommended practice J335(b) and J350(a).
8. Violating the following state laws specified in this Order concerning burning, fires, or which is for the purpose of preventing or restricting the spread of fire. 36 CFR 261.52(k)
Arizona Revised Statutes 13-1702, 13-1703, 13-1704, 13-1706, 13-2913, 36-1602, 37-501, 37-623.
9. Discharging a firearm, except while engaged in a lawful hunt pursuant to state, federal, or tribal laws and regulations. 36 CFR 261.58(m)
EXEMPTIONS
Pursuant to 36 CFR 261.50 (e), the following persons are exempt from this Order:
1. Persons with a permit specifically authorizing the otherwise prohibited act or omission.
2. Any Federal, State, or local officer, or member of any organized rescue or fire fighting force in the performance of an official duty.
3. Residence owners and lessees of land, and holders of Forest Service special use authorizations within the restricted area, are exempt from prohibition number 1 (building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire, or wood or charcoal burning stove) provided such fires are within a permanent structure (e.g. dwelling) and a spark arresting device is in use.
AREA DESCRIBED
All National Forest System lands, roads and trails within the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests, Apache, Greenlee, Navajo, and Coconino Counties, Arizona:
(Exhibit A).
A list of developed recreation sites exempted from prohibition number 1 are attached hereto and made part of this Order as Exhibit B.
PURPOSE
The purpose of this Order is to provide for the public’s health and safety and to protect National Forest System lands, resources and facilities during the current period of severe fire danger.
IMPLEMENTATION
1. Prohibitions contained in this Order become effective at 8:00 AM on Wednesday, May 21, 2008, and will remain in effect until rescinded or until August 30, 2008, whichever occurs first.
2. Violation of these prohibitions is punishable by a fine of not more than $5,000 for individuals and $10,000 for organizations, imprisonment for not more than six (6) months, or both. [16 USC 551, 18 USC 3559, 3571 and 3581].
Done this 20th day of May, 2008, at Springerville, Arizona.
DERYL D. JEVONS
Forest Supervisor
Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests
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Date: May 16, 2008
APACHE-SITGREAVES NATIONAL FOREST SETS RESTRICTIONS FOR MAY 21ST
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DATE: MAY 14, 2008
CONTACT: Robert Dyson(928) 333-4301
Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests to Start Campfire Restrictions
Springerville, AZ….Effective Wednesday, May 21, 2008, at 8:00 am campfires and charcoal fires will only be allowed in certain developed campgrounds on the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests. These Stage 1 restrictions also prohibit:
• the use of charcoal or wood in a campfire outside of certain developed campgrounds,
• smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area that is at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable material
Fireworks are always prohibited on the national forests. Violations of these restrictions are punishable by a fine of not more than $5,000 for individuals and $10,000 for organizations or imprisonment for up to six months, or both.
Campfires and charcoal fires are allowed at the following recreation areas:
• Alpine Ranger District – Alpine Divide, Diamond Rock, Aspen, Horse Spring, Buffalo Crossing, Deer Creek, Raccoon, Hannagan, KP Cienega, and Luna Lake;
• Black Mesa Ranger District – Sinkhole, Canyon Point, Spillway, Aspen, Woods Canyon Group Site, Mogollon, Black Canyon Rim, Rim, and Gentry;
• Clifton Ranger District – Coal Creek, Black Jack, Upper and Lower Juan Miller, Strayhorse, Honeymoon, and Granville;
• Springerville Ranger District – Hoyer, Benny Creek, Rainbow, Cutthroat, Grayling, and Brookchar;
• Lakeside Ranger District – Scott Reservoir, Lakeside, Fool Hollow, and Los Burros.
Gas stoves, heaters, and lanterns are permitted throughout the Forests provided such devices meet the fire underwriter’s specifications for safety.
As a reminder, Highway 273 from Sunrise to Crescent Lake is being re-constructed this summer so Highway 273 is closed. Sheep Crossing and the East and West Fork trailheads of the Baldy Wilderness remain closed this summer. Travelers to the Big Lake area should use Highway 261, the Mexican Hay Lake road.
These restrictions will remain in place until sufficient moisture is received across the Apache-Sitgreaves. For more information about fire restrictions on public lands in Arizona call toll-free 1-877-864-6985. For information on current fires in Apache or Navajo counties dial 593 (928-333-3412) or visit the web at www.593info.org. Additional information about activities on the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests is available on line at: www.fs.fed.us/r3/asnf.
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Date: May 13, 2008
BLM ORDERS FOR HASSAYAMPA AND LOWER SONORAN RESTRICTIONS
FIRE PREVENTION ORDER NO. AZ-210-08-01
FIRE AND SMOKING RESTRICTION
BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT
PHOENIX DISTRICT
HASSAYAMPA FIELD OFFICE
Under the authority of the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (43 U.S.C. 1701 et. seq.) and pursuant to CFR 9212.2 this Fire Prevention Order establishes fire restrictions for all Bureau of Land Management (BLM) administered public lands under protection of the Hassayampa Field Office.
In the interest of Wildfire Prevention and Public Safety, and in compliance with CFR 9212.2 requiring BLM actions to compliment and support state and local Wildfire Prevention, all state and local Wildfire Laws and Regulations shall apply to all public lands under protection of the Hassayampa Field Office.
The restrictions in this Fire Prevention Order are necessary for firefighter and public safety to prevent wildfire and facilitate its suppression during the current episode of high fire danger in Arizona.
Effective May 14, 2008, and until rescinded, the following acts are prohibited:
1. Building or using a fire, campfire, charcoal broiler or wood stove including in developed camping and picnicking areas. However, the use of propane and petroleum-fueled stoves, lanterns or heating devices is allowed.
2. Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building.
In addition on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) administered public lands under protection of the Agua Fria National Monument.
3. Discharging a firearm outside of taking game in accordance with Arizona hunting laws.
The following persons are exempt from the restrictions of this Fire Prevention Order:
1. Any Federal, State or local officer or member of an organized fire fighting force in the performance of an official duty.
Violation of this Fire Prevention Order is punishable by a fine of not more than $1,000, or imprisonment of not more than 12 months, or both. (43 CFR 9212.4).
Signed at Phoenix, Arizona, this 12 day of May, 2008.
____________________________________
Steven Cohn
Field Office Manager
Bureau of Land Management
Phoenix District
Hassayampa Field Office
FIRE PREVENTION ORDER NO. AZ-220-08-01
FIRE AND SMOKING RESTRICTION
BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT
PHOENIX DISTRICT
LOWER SONORAN FIELD OFFICE
Under the authority of the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (43 U.S.C. 1701 et. seq.) and pursuant to CFR 9212.2 this Fire Prevention Order establishes fire restrictions for all Bureau of Land Management (BLM) administered public lands under protection of the Lower Sonoran Field Office.
In the interest of Wildfire Prevention and Public Safety, and in compliance with CFR 9212.2 requiring BLM actions to compliment and support state and local Wildfire Prevention, all state and local Wildfire Laws and Regulations shall apply to all public lands under protection of the Lower Sonoran Field Office.
The restrictions in this Fire Prevention Order are necessary for firefighter and public safety and to prevent wildfire and facilitate its suppression during the current episode of high fire danger in Arizona.
Effective May 14, 2008, and until rescinded, the following acts are prohibited:
1. Building or using a fire, campfire, charcoal broiler or wood stove including in developed camping and picnicking areas. However, the use of propane and petroleum-fueled stoves, lanterns or heating devices is allowed.
2. Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building.
The following persons are exempt from the restrictions of this Fire Prevention Order:
1. Any Federal, State or local officer or member of an organized fire fighting force in the performance of an official duty.
Violation of this Fire Prevention Order is punishable by a fine of not more than $1,000, or imprisonment of not more than 12 months, or both. (43 CFR 9212.4).
Signed at Phoenix, Arizona, this 12 day of May, 2008.
____________________________________
Karen Kelleher
Acting Field Office Manager
Bureau of Land Management
Phoenix District
Lower Sonoran Field Office
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Date: May 13, 2008
PHOENIX DISTRICT BLM LANDS ENTER RESTRICTIONS MAY 14TH
For Immediate Release: May 10th, 2008
Contact: Pamela A. Mathis at: 623/580/5509 or 602/402/7690
Contact: Ken Shaver at: 623/580/5578 www.azfireinfo.com
Public Land Visitors Can Prevent Fires
Prevention Restrictions on Public Lands Begin May 14th
(PHOENIX, AZ.)— The threat of wildfire is now significant as temperatures increase in the southwest desert, rapidly drying the spring’s wildflowers and vegetation.
So far this year, human error has resulted in 10 wildfires on Phoenix District BLM public lands, two of which involved target shooting.
Beginning Wednesday, May 14th, 2008, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), Phoenix District, bans activities known to cause wildfires. Visitors to public lands can prevent wildfires by adhering to and practicing these fire prevention actions:
• Do not smoke. Smoking is allowed only inside of a vehicle or enclosed building.
• Do not build campfires using wood, coals, or a wood stove. The only approved campfire is a propane or petroleum-fueled stove, lantern, or heating device. Never walk away from or leave a fire burning – even with propane or lanterns.
• Do not target shoot or discharge a firearm within the Agua Fria National Monument. Shooting guns strictly for hunting is allowed.
• OHV and ATV riders are also reminded that they must use spark arrestors at all times.
These fire prevention restrictions are implemented on BLM lands southwest of Metro Phoenix in the Lower Sonoran and north of the city in the Hassayampa areas. Visitors to public lands are encouraged to plan trips in advance and call each government agency for specific bans or restrictions. Fire prevention restrictions are posted on the web: www.azfireinfo.com. Violations may result in fines up to $1,000 and/or imprisonment.
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Date: May 13, 2008
COCONINO NATIONAL FOREST SETS RESTRICTIONS FOR RED ROCK DISTRICT
USDA Forest Service
Coconino National Forest
www.coconinoforest.us
For Immediate Release: May 12, 2008
Contact: Karen Malis-Clark, 928-527-3492
Campfire Restrictions on Red Rock Ranger District
Flagstaff, AZ – The first level of campfire and smoking restrictions will be implemented on most of the Red Rock Ranger District of the Coconino National Forest starting on Wednesday, May 14th at 8:00am.
Fires, campfires, woodstove and charcoal fires will be allowed only in developed campgrounds and picnic areas. Use of petroleum-fueled stoves, lanterns, and heating devices meeting safety specifications will be allowed. Smoking will be permitted within an enclosed vehicle or building or in a developed recreation area. Fireworks are always prohibited on National Forest lands.
The restrictions apply to most of the Red Rock Ranger District, including the national forest land in the Verde Valley on the east side of the Verde River, Oak Creek Canyon, lower Sycamore Canyon, lower West Clear Creek, Fossil Creek and Bullpen. The area south of Interstate 17, east of Forest Road 618 and north of Forest Road 214 is not included. Prescott National Forest will also implement campfire and smoking restrictions.
“Due to the lack of moisture in March and April, the lower elevations are drier than is typical for this time of year,” said Heather Provencio, Red Rock District Ranger. “Fire danger below the Rim is Very High.”
The restrictions will remain in effect until conditions have changed sufficiently to reduce the risk of a human-caused wildfire, usually with the onset of summer monsoon rains. Violations are punishable by a fine of not more than $5,000, imprisonment of not more than 6 months, or both.
For current information on fire restrictions on the Coconino National Forest call 928-527-3600 or www.coconinoforest.us. For additional information about fire restrictions on public lands in Arizona and New Mexico, call toll free 1-877-864-6985 or visit http://www.publiclands.org/firenews/AZ.php (http://www.publiclands.org/firenews/AZ.php )
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Date: May 9, 2008
ARIZONA STATE TRUST LANDS HEADED TOWARD RESTRICTIONS ON MAY 14TH
News Release
Arizona State Forestry Division
Office of the State Forester
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 8, 2008
FOR MORE INFORMATION: Cliff Pearlberg, Wildland Fire Prevention Officer, Arizona State Forestry Division (602) 771-1405
FIRE RESTRICTIONS IN EFFECT ON STATE TRUST LANDS
PHOENIX, ARIZONA – The Office of the State Forester will implement fire and smoking restrictions starting at 6:00 AM on Wednesday, May 14, 2008.
The restrictions have become necessary due to developing hot, dry weather along with annual plant growth which contributes to an increasing fire danger. These conditions greatly increase the risk of major wildfires according to Cliff Pearlberg, State Fire Prevention Officer.
The restrictions will apply to All State Trust Lands within Gila, La Paz, Maricopa, Yavapai, and Yuma counties. The restrictions will remain in effect until July 31, 2008 or until further notice.
The restrictions are as follows:
Building, maintaining, or using a fire, campfire, or charcoal burning device except as specifically permitted by the State Forester on a case by case basis is prohibited. Petroleum fueled stoves, lanterns, or heating devices are exempt from these restrictions.
Using fireworks as defined in ARS § 36-1601 is prohibited.
Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle, building, developed campground, or stopped in an area at least 10 feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials is prohibited.
Welding or operating acetylene or other torch with an open flame is prohibited.
These restrictions apply to all permits and leases issued by the State Land Department and holders of hunting and fishing licenses.
Any state, federal, or local fire or law enforcement officer, or member of an organized firefighting force is exempt from these prohibitions while in the performance of their official firefighting duties.
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Date: May 6, 2008
PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST PLANS FIRE RESTRICTIONS FOR MAY 14TH
For Immediate Release: May 5, 2008 Contact: Debbie Maneely (928) 443-8130
PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST ENTERS STAGE I FIRE RESTRICTIONS
PRESCOTT, AZ (May 5, 2008) – Campfire and smoking restrictions will go into effect on the Prescott National Forest beginning Wednesday, May 14, at 8:00 a.m. Forest managers have determined that key trigger points have been reached to warrant taking these restrictive actions. These include increased forest visitor use, abandoned campfires, high winds and rising temperatures.
The following fire restrictions will be in effect for the entire Prescott National Forest:
• Campfires, charcoal grills, and stove fires (wood, charcoal, and coal burning) are prohibited on all National Forest lands, roads, and trails; except within developed recreation sites where grills and campfire rings are provided.
• Pressurized liquid or gas stoves, lanterns and heaters meeting safety specifications are allowed.
• Smoking is prohibited except within enclosed vehicles, buildings, or developed recreation sites where the area is cleared of all flammable material.
• Campfires are not allowed at the designated dispersed sites within the Prescott Basin. Metal posts identify designated dispersed sites with a number.
Campfire and smoking restrictions will remain in effect until forest officials determine that conditions have changed sufficiently to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfire. Violation of these prohibitions is punishable by a fine of not more than $5,000, imprisonment of not more than 6 months, or both. The public is reminded that fireworks are always prohibited on all national forest lands.
For current information on fire restrictions, closures or wildfires on the Prescott National Forest, call 928-777-5799. For further information about fire restrictions on public lands in Arizona and New Mexico, call toll free 1-877-864-6985 or click here (http://www.publiclands.org/firenews/AZ.php ).
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Date: May 6, 2008
KAIBAB RE-OPENS TEN-X CAMPGROUND AND ARIZONA TRAIL
For Immediate Release: May 5, 2008
Contact: Jackie Denk 928-635-8314
Ten-X Campground and Arizona Trail Reopen on Tusayan Ranger District
WILLIAMS, Ariz. – Ten-X Campground and the Arizona Trail on the Tusayan Ranger District of the Kaibab National Forest have reopened following the full containment of the X Fire over the weekend.
The campground and segment of trail were closed last Tuesday due to the rapid growth of the X Fire, which burned 2,048 acres. Ten-X Campground is located about two miles south of Tusayan and offers 70 campsites, which are available on a first-come, first-served. For more information on the campground or the Arizona Trail, please contact the Tusayan Ranger District at (928) 638-2443.
While the X Fire is fully contained, firefighters continue to monitor the area and extinguish any remaining hot spots. Tusayan residents and visitors may continue to see smoke from the fire’s interior for several days.
Federal charges have been filed against three campers from Texas for allegedly leaving their campfire unattended therefore causing the X Fire. According to the criminal complaint, the three campers left their campsite in the afternoon of April 29 at which time their unextinguished campfire, fanned by high winds, emitted hot embers outside of the campfire ring onto the adjacent forest floor near Forest Road 688.
Visitors to the forest are reminded that regardless of the time of year or fire danger level, it is critical to always properly extinguish campfires and never leave them unattended. Also, campers should:
• Use existing campfire rings.
• Have a shovel and sufficient water on hand.
• Avoid making campfires during the windy part of the day.
• Keep campfires small.
• To make sure the fire is out, drown it with water and stir it with dirt. Ensure all burned materials are extinguished. Feel the fire to ensure it is cold.
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Date: May 6, 2008
TONTO NATIONAL FOREST BEGINS FIRE RESTRICTIONS MAY 8TH
Tonto National Forest begins fire restrictions May 8
PHOENIX (May 5, 2008) – Drought conditions, hot temperatures and increased fire danger have resulted in fire restrictions for the Tonto National Forest beginning Thursday, May 8 at 8 a.m. The forest will prohibit most types of fire or fire-causing activities across the entire Tonto National Forest.
Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire or charcoal-burning device is prohibited. Restrictions also apply to smoking outside of a cleared area, operating internal combustion power tools, using welding equipment or torches with open flames, operating combustion engines without spark- arresting devices in effective working order, or discharging firearms except in taking game in accordance with Arizona hunting laws. Use of petroleum-fueled stoves, lanterns, and heating devices are allowed, and some developed campgrounds are also exempted from these restrictions. (Please see attached list).
“Because of ongoing drought and dry forest conditions, fire restrictions are needed to protect forest users, structures and natural resources from the increased potential for dangerous wildland fires,” said Tonto National Forest Fire Staff Officer Clay Templin. “These precautionary measures are intended to enhance our visitors’ quality recreation experiences. Most areas of the Tonto National Forest remain available for recreation activity, including all the Salt River system lakes.”
For further information regarding recreation sites and fire restrictions, please contact the Tonto National Forest at (602) 225-5200, or check online at www.fs.fed.us/r3/tonto.
For general information on fire activity and restrictions in Arizona call toll-free 877-864-6985, or http://www.publiclands.org/firenews/AZ.php (http://www.publiclands.org/firenews/AZ.php ) or click here (http://www.publiclands.org/firenews/AZ.php ).
The following developed campgrounds on Tonto National Forest allow campfires in provided campfire rings:
Cave Creek Ranger District
Bartlett Lake Recreation Area
Bartlett Lake Marina
Jojoba
Rattlesnake Cove
Rattlesnake Group
S B Cove
Bartlett Flat (below high waterline)
Yellow Cliffs
Lower Verde Recreation Area
Riverside Campground
Needle Rock Recreation Area
Needle Rock Campground
Box Bar
Seven Springs Recreation Area
CCC Campground
Seven Springs Picnic Area
Cave Creek Group Site
Horseshoe Lake Recreation Area
Horseshoe Lake Campground
Catfish Point
Ocotillo
Mesquite Campground
Globe Ranger District
Pioneer Pass, in the Pinal Mtns
Sulphide Del Ray, in the Pinal Mtns
Kellner, in the Pinal Mtns
Ice House CCC, in the Pinal Mtns
Pinal, in the Pinal Mtns
Upper Pinal, in the Pinal Mtns
Warnica Group Site in the Pinal Mtns
Jones Water, off AZ Hwy 77 north of Globe
Oak Flat, off AZ Hwy 60 east of Superior
Timber Camp
Mesa Ranger District Saguaro Lake Recreation Area
Saguaro Lake Marina
Saguaro Del Norte
Butcher Jones
Canyon Lake Recreation Area
Canyon Lake Marina
Acacia
Boulder
Laguna
Palo Verde
Lower Salt Recreation Area
Developed recreation sites only
Payson Ranger District No sites open to fires
Pleasant Valley Ranger District No sites open to fires
Tonto Basin Ranger District Apache Lake Recreation Areas.
Apache Lake Marina
Crabtree
Three-mile Wash
Davis Wash
Roosevelt Recreation Area
Vineyard
Frazier
Windy Hill Cholla Bachelor Cove
Grapevine
Cottonwood
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Date: May 5, 2008
TONTO NATIONAL FOREST BEGINS FIRE RESTRICTIONS MAY 8TH
For Immediate Release: May 5, 2008
Contact: For Info, please call 602-225-5200
Tonto National Forest begins fire restrictions May 8
PHOENIX (May 5, 2008) – Drought conditions, hot temperatures and increased fire danger have resulted in fire restrictions for the Tonto National Forest beginning Thursday, May 8 at 8 a.m. The forest will prohibit most types of fire or fire-causing activities across the entire Tonto National Forest.
Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire or charcoal-burning device is prohibited. Restrictions also apply to smoking outside of a cleared area, operating internal combustion power tools, using welding equipment or torches with open flames, operating combustion engines without spark- arresting devices in effective working order, or discharging firearms except in taking game in accordance with Arizona hunting laws. Use of petroleum-fueled stoves, lanterns, and heating devices are allowed, and some developed campgrounds are also exempted from these restrictions. (Please see attached list).
“Because of ongoing drought and dry forest conditions, fire restrictions are needed to protect forest users, structures and natural resources from the increased potential for dangerous wildland fires,” said Tonto National Forest Fire Staff Officer Clay Templin. “These precautionary measures are intended to enhance our visitors’ quality recreation experiences. Most areas of the Tonto National Forest remain available for recreation activity, including all the Salt River system lakes.”
For further information regarding recreation sites and fire restrictions, please contact the Tonto National Forest at (602) 225-5200, or check online at www.fs.fed.us/r3/tonto.
For general information on fire activity and restrictions in Arizona call toll-free 877-864-6985, or http://www.publiclands.org/firenews/AZ.php (http://www.publiclands.org/firenews/AZ.php ) or click here (http://www.publiclands.org/firenews/AZ.php ).
The following developed campgrounds on Tonto National Forest allow campfires in provided campfire rings:
Cave Creek Ranger District
Bartlett Lake Recreation Area
Bartlett Lake Marina
Jojoba
Rattlesnake Cove
Rattlesnake Group
S B Cove
Bartlett Flat (below high waterline)
Yellow Cliffs
Lower Verde Recreation Area
Riverside Campground
Needle Rock Recreation Area
Needle Rock Campground
Box Bar
Seven Springs Recreation Area
CCC Campground
Seven Springs Picnic Area
Cave Creek Group Site
Horseshoe Lake Recreation Area
Horseshoe Lake Campground
Catfish Point
Ocotillo
Mesquite Campground
Globe Ranger District
Pioneer Pass, in the Pinal Mtns
Sulphide Del Ray, in the Pinal Mtns
Kellner, in the Pinal Mtns
Ice House CCC, in the Pinal Mtns
Pinal, in the Pinal Mtns
Upper Pinal, in the Pinal Mtns
Warnica Group Site in the Pinal Mtns
Jones Water, off AZ Hwy 77 N of Globe
Oak Flat, off AZ Hwy 60 E of Superior
Timber Camp
Mesa Ranger District
Saguaro Lake Recreation Area
Saguaro Lake Marina
Saguaro Del Norte
Butcher Jones
Canyon Lake Recreation Area
Canyon Lake Marina
Acacia
Boulder
Laguna
Palo Verde
Lower Salt Recreation Area
Developed recreation sites only
Payson Ranger District No sites open to fires
Pleasant Valley Ranger District No sites open to fires
Tonto Basin Ranger District
Apache Lake Recreation Areas
Apache Lake Marina
Crabtree
Three-mile Wash
Davis Wash
Roosevelt Recreation Area
Vineyard
Frazier Windy Hill Cholla Bachelor Cove
Grapevine
Cottonwood
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Date: May 5, 2008
BLM FIRE RESTRICTIONS ORDER FOR COLORADO RIVER DISTRICT, EFFECTIVE MAY 14
FIRE PREVENTION ORDER NUMBER AZ-300-08-01
STAGE ONE FIRE RESTRICTIONS DUE TO EXTREME FIRE DANGER
BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT, COLORADO RIVER DISTRICT
Pursuant to 43 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 9212.2, because of extreme fire hazard conditions, the following acts are prohibited on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) administered land in Arizona and California for the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) administered public lands within the jurisdictions of the Yuma and Lake Havasu Field Offices of the Colorado River District until further notice. This includes BLM administered public land in portions of La Paz, Mohave, and Yuma Counties.
PROHIBITIONS:
I. Open campfires, charcoal grills, and stoves fires.
2. Smoking.
3. Use of fireworks, flares, or other incendiary devices.
4. Welding or the use of any torch or metal cutting implement.
The restrictions are necessary due to extreme fire danger from prolonged hot and dry weather conditions.
EXEMPTIONS:
I. Campfires and charcoal grills are permitted in developed recreation sites or improved sites where agency-built fire rings or grills are provided.
2. Smoking is restricted to enclosed buildings, within an enclosed vehicle and on a paved or surface roads, within a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable material.
3. The use of petroleum-fueled stoves, lanterns, or heating devices are allowed provided such devices meet the fIre underwriter's specifications for safety.
The following persons are exempt from this order:
I. Persons with a permit specifically authorizing the prohibited act or omission.
2. Any Federal, State or Local Officer or member of an organized firefighting force in the performance of an official duty.
3. Resident owners and lessees of land, and holders of recreational special use authorizations, within the restricted area exempt from Restriction No. I above, provided such fires are within a permanent structure.
This Order becomes effective at 1:00 AM, May 14th, 2008, and will remain in force until rescinded.
Done at Lake Havasu City Arirona,
Rebecca Heick, District Manager Colorado River District, Bureau of Land Management
Violation of this prohibition is punishable by a fine of not more than $1,000.00 or imprisonment ofnot more than 12 months, or both. Questions regarding this order should be addressed to the BLM Fire Mitigation Specialist, James Stewart, at (928) 317-3260, the Yuma Field Office at (928) 317-3200, or the Lake Havasu Field Office at (928) 505-1200.
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Date: April 30, 2008
KAIBAB FIRE NEAR TUSAYAN AFFECTS SOME RECREATION TRAILS, CAMPGROUND
For Immediate Release: April 30, 2008, 7:30 a.m.
Contact: Jackie Denk 928-635-8314
Fire Info Center 928-635-8282
Note: Additional information is available online at www.inciweb.org.
Firefighters Make Progress Battling X Fire
WILLIAMS, Ariz. – Due to lighter winds and higher relative humidity levels overnight, fire managers said they made progress battling the X Fire, which has burned 2,000 acres on the Tusayan Ranger District of the Kaibab National Forest on the east side of state Highway 64 between Ten-X Campground and the southern boundary of Grand Canyon National Park.
The X Fire, which was called in at 12:39 p.m. yesterday by Red Butte Lookout, is gradually moving north but has not reached the boundary of Grand Canyon National Park. There are no closures at Grand Canyon National Park. The fire is not immediately threatening the community of Tusayan, visitor facilities at Grand Canyon National Park, state Highway 64, or any structures.
Containment of the X Fire is still officially zero percent. However, that percentage may increase as firefighters are able to view the fire in daylight. Fire managers also said they are optimistic that firefighters will be able to hold the containment lines built overnight.
Ten-X Campground, which was scheduled to open to the public tomorrow, will remain closed indefinitely due to fire activity. The campground has not been impacted by fire. However, the area will remain closed until fire activity decreases.
The Arizona Trail from Tusayan to Grandview is closed until further notice. Fire managers ask forest visitors to avoid the fire area including forest roads 302 and 688 due to firefighting traffic and fire activity.
Resources assigned to the X Fire, which is burning in ponderosa pine, include seven engines, three dozers, four airtankers, four Hotshot crews, the Tusayan Fire Department, and several miscellaneous firefighting personnel. Additional firefighting resources including a Type 2 helicopter and a Type 2 Incident Management Team (IC – Reinarz) have been ordered.
The X Fire has been driven by very strong winds. High winds and dry conditions are expected again today. Fire behavior has included spotting, torching and running.
No structures have been lost.
The X Fire is believed to be human-caused. A fire investigator is on-scene in order to determine the specific cause.
For more information, please contact Jackie Denk at (928) 635-8314.
For recorded information related to Grand Canyon National Park conditions, please call (928) 638-7688. To reach a Grand Canyon National Park information technician, please call (928) 638-7922.
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Date: April 28, 2008
MARICOPA COUNTY TO START ANNUAL FIRE BAN MAY 12th
For additional information: Dawna Taylor – (602) 506-1114
(602) 525-5733
April 28, 2008
ANNUAL FIRE BAN TO BE IMPLEMENTED
County Parks set May 12 as start date for annual fire ban
(Phoenix) – The Maricopa County Parks and Recreation Department will initiate its annual fire ban beginning Monday, May 12, 2008. “This winter, the County received an abundance of rainfall which produced beautiful wildflowers and lush vegetation in the parks. However, this vegetation has since dried out and left the parks with a large quantity of ground coverage that could easily catch fire,” stated Maricopa County Supervisor Andy Kunasek, Chairman, District 3.
“Because of these conditions, the parks are initiating the fire ban a little earlier this year. The ban includes the use of campfires, fire pits and charcoal grills. It is still acceptable to use gas/propane grills in designated areas,” added Kunasek.
A fire ban is initiated to limit the possibility of starting a brush fire, which could cause serious damage to the parks. Violation of this park rule, Rule 113, may result in a citation. A date to lift the fire ban has not been designated and will be determined by the amount of rain Maricopa County receives during the monsoon season.
There are ten Maricopa County parks that will be affected by the fire ban: Lake Pleasant Regional Park, White Tank Mountain Regional Park, Adobe Dam Regional Park, Buckeye Hills Regional Park, Estrella Mountain Regional Park (excludes turf area), San Tan Mountain Regional Park, Usery Mountain Regional Park, McDowell Mountain Regional Park, Cave Creek Regional Park, and Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area.
Smoking in the parks is still permissible, but all park users are strongly encouraged to be responsible in their use and ensure that all cigarettes are properly extinguished and placed in trash receptacles.
If you have any questions regarding the fire ban, call the Maricopa County Parks and Recreation Department at (602) 506-2930, or visit www.maricopa.gov/parks.
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Date: April 23, 2008
PRESCRIBED FIRE JUMPS CONTAINMENT LINES ON APACHE-SITGEAVES NATIONAL FOREST
For Immediate Release: April 22, 2008
Contact: Julia Faith Rivera 602-601-8037(pager) or 928-333-4301
PRESCRIBED FIRE DECLARED A WILDFIRE
Springerville, AZ. Strong winds have blown a prescribed fire over containment lines in a remote portion of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests causing managers to declare it a wildfire. The Eagle Fire is burning in Greenlee County about 35 miles south of Alpine, Arizona just west of Highway 191. The highway is open at this time but motorists are are urged to be very cautious due to possibly heavy smoke and firefighting vehicles on the road.
The Chitty Prescribed Fire was ignited by fire managers on Thursday, April 17, 2008, for the purpose of improving wildlife habitat and reducing hazardous fuel accumulations. The fire has been successful in meeting those objectives in very rough terrain but strong winds on Sunday night and Monday morning blew embers across containment lines. Most spot fires were contained but several grew rapidly resulting in the fire moving into several drainages or canyons where managers had not intended to burn.
The Eagle Fire is burning in a ponderosa pine forest at about 7,500 feet elevation adjacent to an area that burned last summer from a lightning strike. The estimated acreage burned this morning was over 4,000 but most of that was planned to be burned in a project that was intended to burn up to about 8,000 acres. There are about 60 people working on this fire tonight with more people enroute.
Ther are no structures threatened but there are a few hiking trails closed presently: Highline Trail #47, East Eagle Trail #33, Sheep Saddle Trail #16, Hot Air/Telephone Mesa Trail #15, and Robinson Trail #27. Forest Road 587 near Stray Horse Campground is also closed.
This is the first large wildfire on the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests this year. Although there is still snow at the highest elevations the lower country is drying out very fast. Visitors are asked to be cautious with campfires.
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10-16-09
KAIBAB NATIONAL FOREST PLANS TO CONTINUE TEN X BURN PROJECT
10-15-09
PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST PRESSES ON WITH PRESCRIBED BURN PLANS
10-02-09
GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK CONTINUES WITH FALL BURNING PLANS
09-28-09
FALL FIRE PLANS FOR GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK
09-28-09
KAIBAB CONTINUES WITH FALL BURNING PROJECTS
09-18-09
PRESCOTT PRESSES ON WITH FALL PRESCRIBED BURNING PLANS
09-18-09
KAIBAB CONTINUES WITH PRESCRIBED BURN PLANS
09-11-09
PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST PLANS BURNS NEAR MINGUS MOUNTAIN AND BEAN PEAK
09-10-09
KAIBAB NATIONAL FOREST NOT PROCEEDING WITH TWIN PRESCRIBED FIRE PROJECT
09-10-09
SLASH PILE BURNING SCHEDULED ON PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST
09-01-09
TONTO NATIONAL FOREST CLOSES FOUR CAMPGROUNDS WHILE FIGHTING WATER WHEEL FIRE
08-31-09
KAIBAB NATIONAL FOREST PLANS BURN EAST OF WILLIAMS
08-28-09
PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST TO CONTINUE WITH CONTROLLED BURN PLANS
08-25-09
KAIBAB NATIONAL FOREST READIES TUSAYAN EAST CONTROLLED BURN PROJECT
08-24-09
KAIBAB NATIONAL FOREST'S NORTH DISTRICT PREPARES FOR CONTROLLED BURN
08-24-09
COCONINO NATIONAL FOREST DECLARES PARTIAL CLOSURE IN COCONINO COUNTY
08-20-09
KAIBAB NATIONAL FOREST SETS PLANS FOR FALL PRESCRIBED BURNING
08-20-09
SITGREAVES NATIONAL FOREST ANNOUNCES TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE WHILE MANAGING MULTIPLE FIRES
08-17-09
FIRE MANAGEMENT ON KAIBAB NATIONAL FOREST REQUIRES SUSPENSION OF RECREATION AT WHITE HORSE LAKE
08-04-09
PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST CANCEL PLANS FOR PILE BURNING
07-28-09
PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST CANCELS PLANS TO BURN SOUTH OF MINGUS MOUNTAIN
07-23-09
PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST CONTINUING PLANNED FIRE TO "CLEAN UP" SLASH PILES
07-02-09
PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST DROPS FIRE RESTRICTIONS FOR WEST ZONE FOR THE 4TH
06-30-09
TONTO NATIONAL FOREST LIFTS FIRE RESTRICTIONS IN TIME FOR 4TH OF JULY WEEKEND
06-29-09
KAIBAB NATIONAL FOREST CONTINUES WITH BURN PLANS SOUTH OF JACOB LAKE
06-29-09
KAIBAB NATIONAL FOREST PLAN PRESCRIBED BURN EAST OF TUSAYAN
06-29-09
PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST PROCEDING WITH PRESCRIBED BURN PROJECT NEAR CAMP WOOD
06-26-09
MOHAVE COUNTY STATE TRUST LANDS ADDED TO RESTRICTIONS LIST
06-24-09
BLM SETS RESTRICTIONS FOR KINGMAN FIELD OFFICE OF THE COLORADO RIVER DISTRICT - HERE'S THE OFFICIAL ORDER
06-23-09
GRAND CANYON PRESCRIBED BURN PLANNED FOR SOUTH RIM
06-16-09
PRESCRIBED BURN SCHEDULED AT CORONADO MEMORIAL
06-12-09
PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST CONTINUES WITH PLANNED BURN NEAR CAMP WOOD
06-01-09
LIGHTNING FIRES ON KAIBAB NATIONAL FOREST ALLOW FOR CAREFUL MANAGEMENT
05-29-09
PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST MAINTAINING STAGE I FIRE RESTRICTIONS
05-26-09
PRESCRIBED BURN PLANNED FOR CORONADO NATIONAL MONUMENT
05-19-09
KAIBAB PLANS ANOTHER BURN ON TUSAYAN RANGER DISTRICT
05-19-09
COCONINO NATIONAL FOREST ANNOUNCES SOME RESTRICTIONS; KAIBAB URGES SAFETY
05-18-09
KAIBAB NATIONAL FOREST SAYS "NO RESTRICTIONS, BUT BE CAREFUL..."
05-18-09
GRAND CANYON - 2 BURNS DONE, 1 TO GO
05-15-09
ANOTHER BURN PROJECT PLANNED BY KAIBAB NATIONAL FOREST
05-15-09
KAIBAB NATIONAL FOREST PLANS ANOTHER SPRING BURN
05-15-09
PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST ANNOUNCES RESTRICTIONS TO BEGIN MAY 21ST
05-15-09
BLM SETS RESTRICTIONS FOR PINAL COUNTY IN GILA DISTRICT
05-14-09
SAN CARLOS APACHE AGENCY POSTS RESTRICTIONS
05-14-09
GAME & FISH SETS RESTRICTIONS FOR NINE WILDLIFE AREAS
05-14-09
PRESCRIBED BURN CONTINUES AT GRAND CANYON
05-13-09
STATE TRUST LANDS IN MARICOPA, GILA, YUMA, LA PAZ, PINAL & YAVAPI COUNTIES ENTER RESTRICTIONS
05-13-09
OFFICIAL ORDER FOR TONTO NATIONAL FOREST RESTRICTIONS
05-13-09
GRAND CANYON PRESCRIBED BURNS CONTINUING
05-13-09
TONTO NATIONAL FOREST ENTERS FIRE RESTRICTIONS
05-13-09
BLM ORDER FOR RESTRICTIONS IN PINAL COUNTY LANDS UNDER SAFFORD AND TUCSON FIELD OFFICES
05-12-09
BLM RESTRICTIONS ORDER FOR PHOENIX/HASSAYAMPA DISTRICT
05-12-09
BLM RESTRICTION ORDER FOR PHOENIX/LOWER SONORAN DISTRICT
05-12-09
BLM RESTRICTIONS ORDER FOR COLORADO RIVER/LAKE HAVASU DISTRICT
05-12-09
BLM RESTRICTIONS ORDER FOR COLORADO RIVER/YUMA DISTRICT
05-12-09
MULTIPLE ARIZONA AGENCIES COORDINATING FIRE RESTRICTIONS
05-11-09
BLM ANNOUNCES RESTRICTIONS FOR LAKE HAVASU/YUMA AREAS ON COLORADO RIVER DISTRICT
05-08-09
PHOENIX BANNING FIRE IN MOUNTAIN AND DESERT PRESERVES MAY11th
05-08-09
BLM PLANS BURN IN GALIURO MOUNTAINS
05-07-09
IT'S PRESCRIBED BURN SEASON AT GRAND CANYON
05-05-09
PRESCOTT FOREST PLANS PRESCRIBED BURN NEAR ASH CREEK
04-27-09
GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK TO LIGHT UP 3 PRESCRIBED BURNS ON SOUTH RIM
04-20-09
LATEST PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST PRESCRIBED BURN PLANS SET
04-15-09
PARK SERVICE TO BURN PILES ON SOUTH RIM AT GRAND CANYON
04-03-09
PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST HOPES TO EXECUTE BURN PLANS APRIL 6-10
03-27-09
PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST CONTINUES SPRING BURNING
03-12-09
KAIBAB RE-OPENS SOME ROADS ON TUSAYAN RANGER DISTRICT
03-10-09
PRESCOTT FOREST PLANS SPRING BURNS NEAR CHERRY FOR 3/11-13
03-06-09
KAIBAB FOREST LIMITS TRAVEL NEAR WILLIAMS DUE TO WET CONDITIONS, NOT DRY ONES
01-26-09
Prescott Forest Continuing Slash Pile Burning
01-20-09
Prescott National Forest Plans to Burn Slash Piles
12-03-08
MARTEEN WILDLAND USE FIRE ENDS ITS LONG, LONG RUN
11-19-08
MARTEEN WILDLAND FIRE STILL BEING USE-FUL
11-17-08
LIGHTNING STARTS "OUT-OF-SEASON" WILDFIRE ON PRESCOTT FOREST
11-14-08
PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST AIMS FOR FOUR PRESCRIBED BURN PROJECTS
11-07-08
KAIBAB CONTINUES TO "USE" MARTEEN FIRE
10-31-08
MARTEEN WILDLAND USE FIRE GROWS ON KAIBAB NORTHWEST OF WILLIAMS
10-31-08
WILDLAND USE FIRE IMPROVING OVER 7000 ACRES ON KAIBAB NATIONAL FOREST
10-30-08
PRESCOTT PRESCRIBED BURNS UPDATE
10-29-08
KAIBAB CONTINUES TO MANAGE MARTEEN WILDLAND USE FIRE
10-28-08
MARTEEN WILDLAND USE FIRE CONTINUES ON KAIBAB NATIONAL FOREST
10-28-08
NEW WILDFIRES INTERRUPT PRESCOTT FOREST PRESCRIBED BURNS
10-28-08
PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST CONTROLS ONE FIRE, RESUMES CONTROLLED BURNS
10-27-08
PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST PLANS WEEK-LONG PRESCRIBED BURN PROJECTS
10-25-08
KAIBAB STILL MANAGING MARTEEN WILDLAND USE FIRE
10-25-08
KAIBAB NATIONAL FOREST WRAPS UP PRESCRIBED BURN PROJECT
09-03-08
Kaibab National Forest To Begin Prescribed Burn on Williams Ranger District
07-18-08
BLM TO LIFT RESTRICTIONS FOR PHOENIX AREA
07-10-08
ARIZONA GAME AND FISH LIFTS RESTRICTION FOR NORTHERN WILDLIFE AREAS
07-10-08
RESTRICTIONS END AT FIVE ARIZONA STATE WILDLIFE AREAS
07-08-08
PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST LIFTS FIRE RESTRICTIONS
07-08-08
TONTO NATIONAL FOREST LIFTS FIRE RESTRICTIONS
07-07-08
COCONINO AND KAIBAB NATIONAL FORESTS LIFTING RESTRICTIONS JULY 9TH
07-07-08
OFFICIAL ORDER LIFTING RESTRICTIONS IN TONTO NATIONAL FOREST
07-01-08
STATE SETS FIRE RESTRICTIONS FOR COCONINO COUNTY
07-01-08
BLM'S KINGMAN FIELD OFFICE LANDS ADDED TO RESTRICTIONS LIST
06-30-08
OFFICIAL ORDER: COCONINO NATIONAL FOREST RESTRICTIONS
06-27-08
COCONINO NATIONAL FOREST TO EXPAND RESTRICTIONS JULY 1ST
06-26-08
MOHAVE COUNTY ADDED TO STATE TRUST LANDS FIRE RESTRICTIONS
06-25-08
ARIZONA STRIP LANDS IN ARIZONA AND UTAH ENTER RESTRICTIONS
06-25-08
KAIBAB NATIONAL FOREST OFFICIAL ORDER FOR WILLIAMS, TUSAYAN DISTRICTS
06-24-08
KAIBAB NATIONAL FOREST TO IMPLEMENT FIRE RESTRICTIONS JUNE 25TH
06-18-08
COCONINO RESTRICTIONS ORDER
06-17-08
COCONINO NATIONAL FOREST SETS RESTRICTIONS FOR RED ROCK RANGER DISTRICT
05-28-08
IT’S WILDFIRE SEASON—IS YOUR HOME DEFENSIBLE?
05-27-08
LAKE MEAD NATIONAL RECREATION AREA POSTED RESTRICTIONS MAY 15TH
05-23-08
APACHE-SITGREAVES LIFTS RECENT RESTRICTIONS
05-21-08
ARIZONA GAME & FISH DEPARTMENT POSTS RESTRICTIONS
05-20-08
OFFICIAL ORDER FOR APACHE-SITGREAVES RESTRICTIONS
05-16-08
APACHE-SITGREAVES NATIONAL FOREST SETS RESTRICTIONS FOR MAY 21ST
05-13-08
BLM ORDERS FOR HASSAYAMPA AND LOWER SONORAN RESTRICTIONS
05-13-08
PHOENIX DISTRICT BLM LANDS ENTER RESTRICTIONS MAY 14TH
05-13-08
COCONINO NATIONAL FOREST SETS RESTRICTIONS FOR RED ROCK DISTRICT
05-09-08
ARIZONA STATE TRUST LANDS HEADED TOWARD RESTRICTIONS ON MAY 14TH
05-06-08
PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST PLANS FIRE RESTRICTIONS FOR MAY 14TH
05-06-08
KAIBAB RE-OPENS TEN-X CAMPGROUND AND ARIZONA TRAIL
05-06-08
TONTO NATIONAL FOREST BEGINS FIRE RESTRICTIONS MAY 8TH
05-05-08
TONTO NATIONAL FOREST BEGINS FIRE RESTRICTIONS MAY 8TH
05-05-08
BLM FIRE RESTRICTIONS ORDER FOR COLORADO RIVER DISTRICT, EFFECTIVE MAY 14
04-30-08
KAIBAB FIRE NEAR TUSAYAN AFFECTS SOME RECREATION TRAILS, CAMPGROUND
04-28-08
MARICOPA COUNTY TO START ANNUAL FIRE BAN MAY 12th
04-23-08
PRESCRIBED FIRE JUMPS CONTAINMENT LINES ON APACHE-SITGEAVES NATIONAL FOREST
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