Arizona Emergency Information Network (AzEIN)

Slavin Gulch Fire in Coronado National Forest Nears Containment

2009-06-15T16:47:00.000-07:00

(June 15, 2009 – 4:50 p.m.) The Slavin Gulch Fire is located in the Douglas Ranger District of the Coronado National Forest, on the West side of Dragoon Mountains – South of Council Rock. The fire is estimated to be 135 acres and is approximately 90 percent contained.

Today the fire personnel worked on remaining active fire hotspots. Windy conditions existed throughout the day, however containment is being achieved.

Residents of Sierra Vista and other communities near the border areas are experiencing significant smoke this afternoon, due to several fires in northern Mexico.

(Source: Coronado National Forest)

Park Officials Plan Prescribed Burn Planned for Wednesday, June 17

2009-06-15T16:42:00.000-07:00

(June 15, 2009 – 4:45 p.m.) 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.

(Source: National Park Service)

Elk Horn Fire More Than 10,000 Acres: Fire Being Managed for Resource Benefit

2009-06-15T16:37:00.001-07:00

(June 15, 2009 – 4:40 p.m.) This Incident started on June 11 at approximately 1:00 PM, is located 50 miles southwest of Tucson, near the Baboquivari Peak Wilderness Area.

Currently the fire is estimated to be between 10,000 and 11,000 acres with 12% containment. Darrell Miller, Incident Commander said “we are very pleased with the progression”. This Incident is expected to continue burning for the next several days under close management.

This fire, which began on State Lands, is being managed by several Agencies including Arizona State Forestry, US Fish and Wildlife (USFW), Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) and the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). For all Agencies involved, firefighter safety is the primary concern. This area is known for its very steep, rugged terrain and it has been deemed unsafe to implement direct suppression measures in these areas.

Suppression and protection objectives are in place and are being met for State Lands, however, on the Federal Lands; keeping firefighter safety as the primary objective, this wildland fire will be managed for the resource benefit.

Resources continued burnout operations today using aerial ignition along the ridge tops and securing established perimeter lines below. The fire is now burning north and east of Baboquivari Peak and into Thomas Canyon to the south. Structure protection is in place as a precautionary measure for the Las Delicious Ranch and those structures within Brown Canyon. Fire Officials anticipate an increase in acreage and visible smoke as a result of these burnout operations.

Resources: (3) Type 1 Hotshot Crews, (4) Type 2 Hand Crews, (6) Engines, (4) Water Tenders, (2) Helicopters and miscellaneous overhead for a total of 215 personnel. The Air Resources are being used to shuttle hand crews to inaccessible areas as well as for the aerial ignition operations.

This fire has been determined to be human caused and is under investigation.

(Source: Arizona State Forestry Division)

2009-06-15T13:45:00.001-07:00

(June 15, 2009 – 1:45 p.m.) The Tucker Fire was started by lightning and first sighted on Tuesday, May 26, 2009. Over this past weekend the fire grew to 1500 acres. The fire is located on Dick Hart Ridge in the Coconino National Forest.

The fire is 15 miles NNE of Pine, AZ and is burning between Barbershop Canyon and Maverick Canyon. Crews have cleared brush along the U-Bar trail between forest roads 139 and 145, and plan to use this as a natural boundary to keep the fire from spreading any farther north. Firefighters were successful Friday, Saturday and Sunday with the burning that was conducted to secure the North, East and Western boundaries of the fire.

Fire Managers will now monitor the fire until it burns itself out or the monsoon puts it out, which ever comes first. The smoke that the subdivisions in the Blue Ridge area experienced this past weekend was from the Tucker fire, and was not as bad as anticipated. Expect to see smoke in the late evening and early morning hours for the remainder of this week. In view of the fact that the burning has been completed fire managers expect the smoke to lighten considerably each day.

Travel on the U-Bar trail between forest road 139 and forest road 145 is still not recommended.

(Source: Coconino National Forest)

Real Fire Burning in Coconino National Forest: Smoke Visible East of the Highway

2009-06-15T11:21:00.001-07:00

(June 15, 2009 – 11:25 a.m.) The Real Fire continues to work across the landscape as crews manage it for both protection and resource benefits. It is burning with low intensity along the surface of the forest floor approximately 5 miles southeast of Munds Park, east of Interstate 17.
White smoke can be seen east of the highway.

Start date: May 30
Cause: Lightning
Acres: 800
Behavior: Low-intensity and creeping. Activity increases on sunnier, warmer days.
Closures: For public and firefighter safety, a portion of Forest Road 226 is temporary closed between Bar-M Canyon and Forest Road 127
Management resource objectives:
Re-introducing natural fire in the ecosystem
Reducing fuel accumulation and risk of severe fire behavior
Recycling nutrients back into the soil
Increasing vegetative productivity
Maintaining and enhancing wildlife habitat and forage.

Additional information can be found on the website, www.fs.fed.us/r3/coconino or at the Peaks Ranger Station, 928-526-0866.

(Source: Coconino National Forest)

Slavin Gulch Fire Burning in the Coronado National Forest

2009-06-15T11:17:00.001-07:00

(June 15, 2009 – 11:20 a.m.) The Slavin Gulch Fire is located in the Douglas Ranger District of the Coronado National Forest, the West side of Dragoon Mountains – South of Council Rock. The fire is estimated to be 100 acres and is zero percent contained.

Sunday afternoon crews were able to encircle this fire, aided by several heavy tanker drops. This fire is in a rocky boulder type terrain interspersed with a variety of grasses and brush. Today crews will work on hot spots within the perimeter and continue to operate fight this fire using a full suppression strategy.

Resources Assigned:
Firefighters: 1 Type 1 crew, 1 Type 2 crew, 2 State Forestry crews
Engines: 2
Water tenders: 1

(Source: Coronado National Forest)

Monsoon Safety: Before, During and After the Storm

2009-06-15T10:59:00.003-07:00

(June 15, 2009 - 11:10 a.m.) The American Red Cross offers the following safety tips before, during and after monsoon storms:

Before the Storm Strikes, Know What to Expect...

Keep an eye on the sky. Look for darkening skies, flashes of light, or increasing wind. Listen for the sound of thunder.
If it has been raining hard for several hours, be alert to the possibility of a flood.
If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to the storm to be struck by lightning. Go to safe shelter immediately.
Listen to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio, or television for the latest weather forecasts.

When a Storm Approaches...
Find shelter in a building or car. Keep car windows closed and avoid convertibles.
Telephone lines and metal pipes can conduct electricity. Unplug appliances. Avoid using the telephone or any electrical appliances. (Leaving electric lights on, however, does not increase the chances of your home being struck by lightning.)
Avoid taking a bath or shower, or running water for any other purpose.
Draw blinds and shades over windows. If windows break due to objects blown by the wind, the shades will prevent glass from shattering into your home.

If Caught Outside...
If you are in the wilderness or forest area, take shelter under the shorter trees.
If you are boating or swimming, get to land and find shelter immediately!

In the Event of a Power Outage...
· Only use a flashlight for emergency lighting. Never use candles!
· Turn off electrical equipment you were using when the power went out.
· Avoid opening the refrigerator and freezer.
· Do not run a generator inside a home or garage.

If Someone is Struck by Lightning...
People struck by lightning carry no electrical charge and can be handled safely.
Call for help. Get someone to dial 9-1-1 or your local Emergency Medical Services number.
The injured person has received an electrical shock and may be burned, both where they were struck and where the electricity left their body. Check for burns in both places. Being struck by lightning can also cause nervous system damage, broken bones, and loss of hearing or eyesight.
Give First Aid. If breathing has stopped, a trained person should begin rescue breathing. If the heart has stopped beating, a trained person should give CPR. If the person has a pulse and is breathing, look and care for other possible injuries.

Flash Floods Take Only a Few Minutes to Develop...
A flash flood WATCH means flash flooding is possible in your area.
A flash flood WARNING means a flash flood is occurring or will occur very soon.
If driving through a flooded area – DO NOT try to cross washes with water in them.
If your car stalls in rapidly rising waters, abandon it immediately and climb to higher ground.

When a Flood WATCH Is Issued...
Move your furniture and valuables to higher floors of your home.
Fill your car’s gas tank, in case an evacuation notice is issued.
Be alert to signs of flash flooding and be ready to evacuate on a moment's notice.

When a Flood WARNING Is Issued...
Listen to local radio and TV stations for information and advice. If told to evacuate, do so as soon as possible. Or if you think it has already started, evacuate immediately. You may have only seconds to escape. Act quickly!
Move to higher ground away from rivers, streams, creeks, and storm drains. Do not drive around barricades … they are there for your safety.

After the Storm Passes...
Stay away from storm-damaged areas.
Listen to the radio and watch TV for information and instructions.

Prepare NOW for any type of disaster...
Build a disaster supplies kit
Have a family disaster plan
Be informed and get trained in CPR and First Aid

(Source: American Red Cross, Grand Canyon Chapter)

Rattle Ridge Fire Causes Road Closures; Smoke Visible

2009-06-15T09:54:00.001-07:00

(June 15, 2009 – 9:50 a.m.) The Rattle Ridge Fire is being managed for natural resource benefit and continues to burn with low intensity within the confinement boundary. The fire is located northwest of Stoneman Lake and east of Interstate 17 and is estimated at 403 acres.

Crews are working to mop up remnants of the fire along the east and northern boundary of the fire. Smoke is expected to be visible east of Interstate 17 and within the Verde Valley over the next several weeks.

For public and firefighter safety, forest roads 9242E, 665B, 9240C are temporarily closed to public travel.

Start date: May 28
Cause: Lightning
Fuel Type: Ponderosa Pine, Pinyon Pine, juniper and oak brush
Resources: 31 firefighters including: 4 engine crews and 1 fuels crew

Management resource objectives:

Re-introducing fire in the ecosystem
Allowing fire to reduce fuel accumulation
Recycling on-site forest nutrients
Increasing vegetative productivity
Improving wildlife habitat and forage.

Campfire and smoking restrictions remain in place on most of the Red Rock Ranger District east of I-17 and south of Forest Road 618. For a map and description of the fire restrictions, please go to the Coconino National Forest.

(Source: Coconino National Forest)

Elk Horn Fire Update: Burnout Operations Scheduled for Today

2009-06-15T06:47:00.003-07:00

(June 15, 2009 - 6:50 a.m.) This Incident started on June 11 at approximately 1:00 PM, is located 50 miles southwest of Tucson, near the Baboquivari Peak Wilderness Area.

Currently the fire is approximately 5,400 acres with 8% containment and is expected to continue burning for the next several days.

There was little activity or movement through the night but resources will continue burnout operations today and over the next several days using aerial ignition as needed and securing perimeter lines. Structure protection is in place as a precautionary measure for the Los Delicious Ranch and those structures within Brown Canyon. Fire Officials anticipate an increase in acreage and visible smoke as a result of these burnout operations.

To date, two injuries have been documented on this Incident. A firefighter had an allergic reaction to a bee sting, requiring a brief hospitalization. He has since been released and is resting at home. Another individual had a minor knee sprain but has been treated and is back on the line.

This fire, which began on State Lands, is being managed by several Agencies including Arizona State Forestry, US Fish and Wildlife (USFW), Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) and the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). For all Agencies involved, firefighter safety is the primary concern. This area is known for its very steep, rugged terrain and it has been deemed unsafe to implement direct suppression measures in these areas.

Suppression and protection objectives are in place and are being met for State Lands, however, on the Federal Lands; keeping firefighter safety as the primary objective, this wildland fire will be managed for the resource benefit.

Resources: (3) Type 1 Hotshot Crews, (4) Type 2 Hand Crews, (6) Engines, (4) Water Tenders and (2) Helicopters for a total of 195 personnel. The Air Resources are being used to shuttle hand crews to inaccessible areas as well as for the aerial ignition operations.

This fire has been determined to be human caused and is under investigation.

(Source: Arizona State Forestry Division)

Elk Horn Fire Update: Burnout Operations Successful

2009-06-14T20:49:00.004-07:00

(June 14, 2009 - 8:50 p.m.) This Incident started on June 11 at approximately 1:00 PM, is located 50 miles southwest of Tucson, near the Baboquivari Peak Wilderness Area.

Currently the fire is 5,280 acres with 8% containment and is expected to continue burning for the next several days.

Burnout operations today went very well with no significant events to report. Resources will continue burnouts in the days to come, using aerial ignition as needed and securing perimeter lines. Structure protection is in place as a precautionary measure for the Los Delicious Ranch and those structures within Brown Canyon. Fire Officials anticipate an increase in acreage and visible smoke as a result of these burnout operations.

To date, two injuries have been documented on this Incident. A firefighter had an allergic reaction to a bee sting, requiring a brief hospitalization. He has since been released and is resting at home. Another individual had a minor knee sprain but has been treated and is back on the line.

This fire, which began on State Lands, is being managed by several Agencies including Arizona State Forestry, US Fish and Wildlife (USFW), Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) and the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). For all Agencies involved, firefighter safety is the primary concern. This area is known for its very steep, rugged terrain and it has been deemed unsafe to implement direct suppression measures in these areas.

Suppression and protection objectives are in place and are being met for State Lands, however, on the Federal Lands; keeping firefighter safety as the primary objective, this wildland fire will be managed for the resource benefit.

Resources: (3) Type 1 Hotshot Crews, (4) Type 2 Hand Crews, (6) Engines, (4) Water Tenders and (2) Helicopters for a total of 195 personnel. The Air Resources are being used to shuttle hand crews to inaccessible areas as well as for the aerial ignition operations.

This fire has been determined to be human caused and is under investigation.

(Source: Arizona State Forestry Division)

Ruby Complex Fire Update

2009-06-14T19:39:00.003-07:00

(June 14, 2009 – 7:45 p.m.) The Ruby Fire on the Tusayan Ranger District of the Kaibab National Forest continues to grow toward the Game Reserve Fire in Grand Canyon National Park. With this progression expected to continue, forest and park managers have agreed it is beneficial to manage both fires under one organization.

On Saturday, June 13, the Ruby and Game Reserve fires became the Ruby Complex. The total size of the complex is 3,056 acres: Ruby is 2,518 acres and Game Reserve is 538 acres. The two fires are being managed to meet protection and resource objectives.

To meet protection objectives on these fires, personnel take measures as necessary to prevent rapid fire spread near cultural resource sites, wildlife water tanks, the Arizona Trail and the power line in the Park on the south side of Hwy 64. The resource objectives managers hope to achieve include returning fire to its natural role in a fire-dependent ecosystem, reducing hazardous fuel accumulation and improving wildlife habitat.

Sunday, there was moderate growth on the fires and no smoke impacts to Grand Canyon National Park or Tusayan. Grand Canyon National Park and all facilities remain open. The Ruby Fire has reached the Arizona Trail, a popular hiking, biking and horseback riding trail.

To provide for public safety, fire managers have closed a 4-mile segment of the trail from Watson tank to Grandview trailhead until further notice. Smoke from the complex is visible along State Highway 64, US Highway 180 and in some areas of Grand Canyon National Park.

There is occasional haze in the eastern part of Grand Canyon and in Tusayan. Generally, the thin layer of smoke dissipates in the early morning. Fire managers work closely with Arizona Department of Environmental Quality to monitor smoke production.

(Source: Kaibab National Forest)

Pioneer Fire Update: Estimated to be 45% Contained

2009-06-14T17:45:00.004-07:00

(June 14, 2009 – 5:45 p.m.)The Pioneer fire, located approximately eight miles south of Globe, Ariz., is now 45 percent contained and is estimated to be 1,375 acres. Smoke may be visible over the next several days while forest firefighters continue to mop up, monitor and secure the perimeter, and complete suppression rehabilitation work.

The fire is located in steep terrain with thick vegetation making access difficult. Fire behavior today was moderate as the fire backs through timber and hardwood litter on the north aspect of East Mountain.

Management of the Pioneer fire operations was transferred from the Arizona Central West Zone Incident Management Team to a Tonto National Forest Type 3 organization yesterday evening at 6 pm.

Pioneer Fire:

Date started: May 30, 2009, 2 pm
Location: Pioneer Pass, east of East Mountain and west of Hwy. 77
Cause: Lightning
Fuels: Mixture of fuel types: ponderosa pine, manzanita and oak brush
Expected containment: June 18, 2009
Current resources: 108 personnel
Structures threatened: None

Additional fire information, photos and maps can be accessed at: inciweb.org , http://gacc.nifc.gov/swcc and www.nifc.gov.

(Source: Tonto National Forest)

Elk Horn Fire Burning in Southwest Arizona

2009-06-14T12:35:00.003-07:00

(June 14, 2009 – 12:50 p.m) This Incident started on June 11 at approximately 1:00 PM, is located 50 miles southwest of Tucson, near the Baboquivari Peak Wilderness Area.

Currently the fire is approximately 2,400 acres with 5% containment and is expected to continue burning for the next several days. Click here for link to Kitt Peak webcams.

The fire, which began on State Lands, is being managed by several Agencies including Arizona State Forestry, US Fish and Wildlife (USFW), Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) and the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). For all Agencies involved, firefighter safety is the primary concern. This area is known for its very steep, rugged terrain and it has been deemed unsafe to implement direct suppression measures in these areas.

Suppression and protection objectives are in place and are being met for State Lands, however, on the Federal Lands; keeping firefighter safety as the primary objective, this wildland fire will be managed for the resource benefit.

Today, resources will begin burnouts using aerial ignition along the mountain ridge tops east of the Tohono O’odham boundary, and along established roads and natural boundaries to the south and east in those areas managed by the Federal Agencies. Structure protection is in place as a precautionary measure for the Los Delicious Ranch and those structures within Brown Canyon.

Fire Officials anticipate an increase in acreage and visible smoke as a result of these burnout operations.

Resources: (3) Type 1 Hotshot Crews, (4) Type 2 Hand Crews, (6) Engines, (4) Water Tenders and (2) Helicopters. The Air Resources are being used to shuttle hand crews to inaccessible areas as well as for the aerial ignition operations.

This fire has been determined to be human caused and is under investigation.

(Source: Arizona State Forestry Division)

Pioneer Fire Update: Fire 40 Percent Contained

2009-06-13T21:52:00.002-07:00

(June 13, 2009 – 9:55 p.m.) Management of the Pioneer fire operations was transferred from the Arizona Central West Zone Incident Management Team to a Tonto National Forest Type 3 organization this evening at 6 pm. The fire, located approximately eight miles south of Globe, Ariz., is now 40-percent contained.

Smoke will be visible in the coming days as the fire makes short runs on the north and west slopes in the pines. The forest Type 3 organization will continue to mop up and secure the perimeter, continue rehabilitation efforts, and monitor fire spread into the brush fuels.

The fire is burning in steep terrain in pine and chaparral fuel types with occasional single tree and group tree torching. Access to the majority of the fire perimeter is on foot.

Fire behavior today consisted of backing through the pine stringers with occasional short-lived upslope runs. Observed flame heights of 3 – 5 feet were observed.

Pioneer Fire:

Date started: May 30, 2009, 2 pm
Location: Pioneer Pass, east of East Mountain and west of Hwy. 77
Acres: 1,315
Cause: Lightning
Fuels: Mixture of fuel types: ponderosa pine, manzanita and oak brush
Containment: 40%
Expected containment: June 18, 2009
Current resources: 203 personnel
Structures threatened: None

Additional fire information, photos and maps can be accessed at: inciweb.org , http://gacc.nifc.gov/swcc and www.nifc.gov

(Source: Tonto National Forest)

Ruby Fire Continues to Grow

2009-06-13T21:45:00.002-07:00

(June 13, 2009 – 9:50 p.m.) The Ruby Fire gained some momentum the past two days as dry, warm and windy conditions returned. Observed fire behavior consisted of one to two foot flame lengths, single tree torching and short range spotting. The fire has grown to 2,368 acres. The Ruby Fire is six miles southeast of Tusayan, Ariz. and ½ mile southwest of the Game Reserve Fire (384 acres) in Grand Canyon National Park.

Saturday, the Ruby and Game Reserve fires continued to move across the landscape toward each other. With this progression expected to continue, forest and park managers agreed it would be beneficial to manage both fires for protection and resource objectives under one organization. Both fires will be managed as the Ruby Complex starting Saturday, June 13 at 6:00 p.m.

To meet protection objectives on these fires, personnel have taken measures to prevent rapid fire spread near cultural resource sites, wildlife water tanks, the Arizona Trail and the power line on the south side of Hwy 64. To meet resource objectives, fire has been allowed to move across the landscape when conditions are appropriate, to reduce hazardous fuel accumulation, enhance wildlife habitat and improve forest health.

US Forest Service and NPS officials have decided that managing both fires under one organization is a valuable opportunity to work together, combine resources and meet multiple objectives. “We are pleased we have this opportunity to work with Grand Canyon National Park to manage fire across jurisdictional boundaries,” said Angela Parker, Tusayan District Ranger. “It makes ecological as well as resource protection sense.”

The Ruby Fire has reached the Arizona Trail, a popular hiking, biking and horseback riding trail. To provide for public safety, fire managers have closed a 4-mile segment of the trail from Watson tank to Grandview trailhead until further notice. Signs are posted to alert trail users to a detour on Forest Roads 303 and 302 away from fire activity.

Smoke is visible along State Highway 64, US Highway 180 and in some areas of Grand Canyon National Park. There is occasional haze in the eastern part of Grand Canyon and in Tusayan. Generally, the thin layer of smoke dissipates early morning. Close coordination with Arizona Department of Environmental Quality to monitor smoke production is a high priority in the management of these fires.

The forecast calls for partly cloudy, breezy conditions to persist for several days. There are no red flag warnings in the general forecast. Please use caution while traveling on forest roads in the fire vicinity.

(Source: Kaibab National Forest)

Lochiel and Little Alamo Fires Nearing Containment

2009-06-13T16:23:00.000-07:00

(June 13, 2009 – 4:25 p.m.) The Lochiel and Little Alamo Fires are burning in the Coronado National Forest.

The Lochiel Fire is burning in the Sierra Vista Ranger District of the Coronado National Forest. The fire is estimated to be 2,660 acres and is approximately 95 percent contained.

Saturday proved a good day for fire crews, allowing for a reduction of resources. Ground crews were able to work today, without the need of aerial support, but aircraft were readily available if called upon.

The Little Alamo Fire is burning in the Nogales Ranger District of the Coronado National Forest. The fire is estimated to be 841 acres and is 75 percent contained.

This fire is believed to be human caused. It is being fought by the Nogales Ranger District as a wildfire. Firefighting resources will manage the fire today by going indirect and conducting burnout operations utilizing accessible roads.

Saturday proved to be a good day for fire crews performing their containment work. The weather, although blustery, did not pose additional problems and the remaining active low intensity fire areas are now burning slower due to slow rising humidity levels.

The Forest Service’s Nogales Ranger District would like to thank all the cooperating agencies that have been involved on the Little Alamo fire, and also would like to say “Thank You” to the Nogales area citizens for helping to create a safer environment for fire crews and equipment, by not visiting or recreating near the fire area today.

(Source: Coronado National Forest)

Pioneer Fire Update: Smoke Visible in Surrounding Communities

2009-06-13T10:58:00.002-07:00

(June 13, 2009 – 11:00 a.m.) The Pioneer Fire, burning 8 miles south of Globe, is estimated to be 1,315 acres and is approximately 40 percent contained.

At 6:00 p.m. today, management of the Pioneer Fire will transfer from the Arizona Central West Zone Incident Management Team to a local Type III Incident Management Team from the Tonto National Forest. They will continue suppression efforts on the fire. Construction of fire line has been completed on the southwest side of the fire protecting the Signal Peak communication facilities and summer homes.

Smoke will be visible in the coming days near the top of East Mountain as the fire makes short runs on the north and west slopes in the pines. Crews will continue to hold the west perimeter of the fire, with mop up and rehabilitation of fire lines occurring where the fire has cooled.

Fire related traffic will continue to be heavy around the fire and in the community. Fire danger remains high with warmer drier weather conditions predicted so please be careful.

For maps, photos or more information visit www.inciweb.org. Additional information is available on the Gila County Emergency Management Hotline at 928-402-8888.

(Source: Arizona Central West Zone Incident Management Team)

Lochiel And Little Alamo Fires Burning in the Coronado National Forest

2009-06-13T08:45:00.002-07:00

(June 13, 2009 - 8:50 a.m.) The Locheil Fire is located in the Siera Vista Ranger District of the Coronado National Forest. The fire is estimated to be 2,660 acres and zero percent contained. There was some fire growth Friday on the northwest flank. Fire is moving in northeast direction only. Active fire area is now within the Coronado National Forest.

The Little Alamo Fire is located in the Nogales Ranger District of the Coronado National Forest. The fire is estimated to be 160 acres and is approximately 10 percent contained. This fire is believed to be human caused. Firefighting resources will manage the fire today by going indirect and conducting burnout operations using accessible roads. Local residents will see smoke throughout the day due to the operations.

The Forest Service requests that the recreating public resist using nearby roads near the fire, specifically Petrero and Alamo Canyon, to minimize the potential risk of accidents with Fire Equipment and personnel working in the area.

(Source: Coronado National Forest)

Lochiel Fire, Little Alamo Fire Burning on Coronado National Forest

2009-06-12T17:09:00.002-07:00

(June 12, 2009 -- 4:45 p.m.) The Lochiel and Alamo fires are burning on the Coronado National Forest. The Lochiel Fire is 2,500 acres and the Alamo Fire is a new start at 10 acres.

Lochiel Fire
Started: June 11, 2009
Location: Sierra Vista Ranger District of the Coronado National Forest
Size: 2500 acres
Percent Contained: 0%
Cause: Unknown at this time

Resources Assigned:

Engines: 3 Forest Service & 2 State
1 Helo. Tanker
1 Heavy Air Tanker
1 Air Attack
4 SEATS
1 Dept. of Forestry Crews
2 water tenders

Closures: None
Structures Threatened: None
Summary: Some fire growth on the northwest flank Friday. Fire is moving in a northeast direction only. Active fire area is now within the Coronado National Forest.

Little Alamo
Started: June 12, 2009 3:33 p.m.
Location: Nogales Ranger District of the Coronado National Forest
Size: 10 acres (grass & brush fuels)
Percent Contained: 0%
Cause: Unknown at this time

Resources Assigned:

Engines: 3
1 Helo. Tanker
1 Hot Shot Crew (ordered)
1 Type 2 Crew (ordered)
2 Water Tenders (ordered)

Closures: None
Structures Threatened: None
Summary: Being managed by Coronado NF’s Nogales Ranger District personnel.

(Source: Coronado National Forest)

Update on Lightning Fires on Coconino National Forest

2009-06-12T16:48:00.003-07:00

(June 12, 2009 – 4:30 p.m.) -- Fire specialists continue to manage four lightning-caused fires to benefit forest natural resources.

Point Fire – About two miles northeast of Pine, on Milk Ranch Point along the Mogollon Rim. About 1295 acres. Burnout operations are complete; the fire will continue to burn on its own until it burns itself out or monsoon rains put it out. The fire will be monitored daily by engine crews. Milk Ranch Point and the trails within the area will remain closed until fire managers feel it is safe to re-open for public use. Smoke will still be visible.
Tucker Fire – About eight miles south of the Mogollon Rim/Blue Ridge Ranger Station on Dick Hart Ridge. Estimated to be 160 acres. Crews began burnout operations today, burning approximately 200 acres just south of the U-Bar trail to prevent fire spread to the north. Saturday they plan to burn approximately 700 acres on McClintock Ridge, along Forest Road 145A keeping the fire from spreading further east, and Sunday burn approximately 500 acres east of Dick Hart Ridge, Forest Road 139, keeping the fire from spreading further west. When these treatments are completed creating boundaries around the fire, the interior will be allowed to burn on its own until the monsoon arrives and puts it out. Smoke will be noticeable around Blue Ridge area subdivisions and Highway 87. Travel is discouraged on the U-Bar trail between Forest Road 145 and 139.
Real Fire – about five miles southeast of Munds Park, east of I-17. Currently 650 acres. Smoke visible from I-17 and Lake Mary Road at times. Due to fire operations a portion of Forest Road 226 is closed to public access.
Rattle Ridge Fire – about three miles northwest of Stoneman Lake and east of Interstate 17. Approximately 90 acres. Crews worked to reinforce containment lines west of Stoneman Lake and east of Interstate 17. Firefighters continue to strengthen fire lines within the containment area. Over the next several days smoke is expected to be heavy at times as the fire burns at low to moderate intensity through ponderosa pine, pinyon pine, juniper and oak brush. Forest roads 9242E, 665B, 9240C are temporarily closed to public travel.

Management objectives for these naturally caused fires include: Re-introducing fire in the ecosystem, allowing fire to reduce fuel accumulation, recycling on-site forest nutrients, increasing vegetative productivity, improving wildlife habitat and forage. Firefighters are employing techniques that minimize impact on the land, such as using existing roads and trails as firelines.

Information for the Point and Tucker Fires is available at the Mogollon Rim Ranger Station (928) 477-2255. Other Fire Information is available at (928) 527-3600 and the Coconino National Forest.

(Source: Coconino National Forest)

Rattle Ridge Fire Causes Road Closures, Produces Heavy Smoke

2009-06-12T11:52:00.000-07:00

(June 12, 2009 – 11:50 a.m.) The Rattle Ridge Fire located northwest of Stoneman Lake and east of Interstate 17 is now estimated at 90 acres and continues to burn with low to moderate intensity.

Firefighters continue to strengthen fire lines within the containment area. Over the next several days smoke is expected to be heavy at times.

For public and firefighter safety, forest roads 9242E, 665B, 9240C are temporarily closed to public travel.

Start date: May 28
Cause: Lightning
Fuel Type: Ponderosa Pine, Pinyon Pine, juniper and oak brush
Resources: 40 firefighters; 3 engine crews; and 1 fuels crew
Management resource objectives:

Re-introducing fire in the ecosystem
Allowing fire to reduce fuel accumulation
Recycling on-site forest nutrient
Increasing vegetative productivity
Improving wildlife habitat and forage

(Source: Coconino National Forest)

Camp Wood Prescribed Burn Planned June 16-19, 2009

2009-06-12T11:42:00.000-07:00

(June 12, 2009 – 11:45 a.m.) 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.

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.

For current information on prescribed burns call the Prescott National Forest fire information line at 928-777-5799.

(Source: Prescott National Forest)

Tucker Fire Expected to Produce Smoke in Blue Ridge Area

2009-06-12T11:19:00.000-07:00

(June 12, 2009 – 11:20 a.m.) The Tucker Fire was started by lightning and first sighted on Tuesday, May 26, 2009. It is approximately 150 acres in size. The fire is located on Dick Hart Ridge in the Coconino National Forest.

The fire is 15 miles north, northeast of Pine, AZ and is burning between Barbershop Canyon and Maverick Canyon. Crews have cleared brush along the U-Bar trail between forest roads 139 and 145, and plan to use this as a natural boundary to keep the fire from spreading any farther north. Fire managers and crews are planning to begin securing control lines by using fire on Friday, continuing through Sunday.

The plan for Friday is to burn approximately 200 acres just south of the U-Bar trail; this will keep the fire from spreading to the north. Saturday they plan to burn approximately 700 acres on McClintock Ridge, along Forest Road 145A keeping the fire from spreading any further east, and Sunday burn approximately 500 acres east of Dick Hart Ridge, Forest Road 139, keeping the fire from spreading any further west. Once all of these treatments are completed everything within the interior of the boundaries will be allowed to burn on it’s own until the monsoon arrives and puts it out. Once this has been accomplished our goal of managing fire for resource benefit will be achieved.

With normal southwestern winds subdivisions within the Blue Ridge area may be greatly affected by smoke during the day and into the evening and early morning hours. Smoke should lift by mid-morning. Travel on the U-Bar trail between Forest Road 145 and 139 is not recommended.

(Source: Coconino National Forest)

Pioneer Fire Update: Minimal Fire Growth Expected Today

2009-06-12T11:04:00.001-07:00

(June 12, 2009 – 11:00 a.m.) The Pioneer Fire is continuing to burn 8 miles south of Globe. The fire is estimated to be 1,145 acres and is 35 percent contained.

Crews made excellent progress yesterday in securing the west perimeter of the Pioneer Fire along Forest Service Road 112 and Trial 200. Most of the ponderosa pine stands within the fire area have also been successfully treated to further reduce the possibility of a crown fire. Mop up operations and rehabilitation of some fire lines has been started.

Fire behavior is expected to be at a low-intensity today. Crews will be monitoring fire progress in transition areas between ponderosa pine and chaparral. Fire spread between these fuels types is expected to be minimal. Very little fire growth is expected toward the north and east today.

For maps, photos or more information visit www.inciweb.org. Additional information is available on the Gila County Emergency Management Hotline at 928-402-8888.

Pioneer Fire Details
Start date: May 30, 2009
Cause: Lightning
Fuels: Ponderosa pine, manzanita, oak brush
Terrain: Steep, rugged
Resources: 5 crews, 6 engines, 2 dozers, 4 water tenders
Total personnel: 261
Available air support: 4 helicopters.

(Source: Arizona Central West Zone Incident Management Team)

Lochiel Fire Update: Air Attack Scheduled for Today

2009-06-12T07:29:00.001-07:00

(June 12, 2009 – 7:30 a.m.) The Lochiel Fire is located in the Sierra Vista Ranger District of the Coronado National Forest. The fire is approximately 1800 acres and is zero percent contained.

Fire began at the southwest end of the San Rafael Valley, approximately 2 miles north, northwest of Lochiel, and is moving in a northeast direction. It is on the Coronado Forest and private lands.

Thursday evening the fire calmed and this morning periods of dense smoke may be seen, due to some the burning of old logs and brush present in a few of the draws. Air Attack will by flying over the area this morning around 7am. Two hotshot crews have been ordered in today, and the Douglas Department of Forestry crew remains on the fire this morning.

Lochiel Fire Details
Started: June 11, 2009 4:43 p.m.
Cause: Unknown at this time
Structures Threatened: None
Closures: None
Resources Assigned:
Engines: 3 Forest Service & 2 State
1 Helo. Tanker
1 Heavy Air Tanker
1 Air Attack
4 SEATS
1 Dept. of Forestry Crews
2 water tenders

(Source: Coronado National Forest)