Arizona Emergency Information Network
Firing operations for Bunker Fire on Saturday to cause smoke impacts north of Sedona
The Coconino National Forest plans to conduct a minor firing operation on a lightning-caused wildfire located 11 miles northwest of Sedona over the coming weekend.
The Bunker Fire, first reported June 24, is currently seven acres, and is in the Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness area.
By conducting a small number of firing operations within a 200-acre footprint, using area roads as natural holding features, crews will be able to safely contain the fire within a single day and ensure it will not spread past the pre-determined boundaries.
During the firing operation, smoke will be highly noticeable from Sedona itself, including trailheads and heritage sites near the fire.
There are no road or area closures associated with the Bunker Fire.
Screenshot 2024-06-28 100758.pngKaibab National Forest to lift fire restrictions and Bill Williams closure Saturday, June 29
Due to an increase in rainfall over the last several days, the Kaibab National Forest will lift all fire restrictions and the temporary area closure on Bill Williams Mountain at 8:00 a.m. Saturday, June 29, 2024.
Fire managers continually evaluate conditions across the forest to help determine when to implement or rescind fire restrictions. The forest has received enough widespread rain to increase fuel moisture levels and decrease fire danger and the increased moisture and cooler temperatures have reduced the risk of severe fire behavior. The forecast shows these improved conditions continuing.
The public should remain vigilant while visiting the forest, regardless of restriction levels. Leaving your campfire unattended is illegal all year round. Campfires must be dead out – cold to the touch – before you walk away.
Fireworks and explosives are ALWAYS prohibited on National Forest lands.
Forest managers consider several factors when considering fire restrictions or forest closures, including current fire danger and fire activity, local, regional, and national fire preparedness levels, expected weather conditions, availability of firefighting resources, and the economic impacts on businesses and communities. The Kaibab National Forest continues to coordinate with federal, state, tribal and local partners.
For restriction information on state and federally managed lands in AZ visit wildlandfire.az.gov/fire-restrictions. Find restriction information for Coconino County at coconino.az.gov/2595/Fire-Restriction-Information.
Information can also be found on the Kaibab NF website, X, Facebook, Flickr, or by calling the local ranger stations.
The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality has issued an Ozone High Pollution Advisory (HPA) for Friday, June 28.
The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality has issued an Ozone High Pollution Advisory (HPA) for Friday, June 28.
Take Action
- Drive less, carpool, use public transit, or telecommute. For information on transportation alternatives, visit ShareTheRide.com.
- Fuel your vehicle after dark or during cooler evening hours.
- Reduce wait time in long drive-thru lines. Park your vehicle and walk inside at coffee shops, fast-food restaurants, curbside pick-up, and banks.
- Use low-VOCs (volatile organic compounds) or water-based paints, stains, finishes, and paint strippers.
- Delay large painting projects until HPAs have passed.
- Properly seal containers of household cleaners, garage and yard chemicals, and other solvents to prevent vapors from evaporating into the air. Eliminate wood burning in fireplaces, stoves, chimeneas, and outdoor fire pits.
- Avoid using leaf blowers. Use a rake or broom to keep debris out of the road and away from storm drains, ditches, and streams.
- Conserve electricity.
HPA Restrictions
- Wood burning in residential fireplaces, chimeneas, outdoor fire pits, and similar outdoor fires is prohibited in Maricopa County. This includes individuals and businesses which have burn permits for open burning.
- Employees and contractors of government entities are prohibited from operating leaf blowers. Residents are encouraged to avoid leaf blowing.
- Off-highway vehicles are prohibited from being used.
Transportation Coordinators
Due to unhealthy levels of particulate matter, all Transportation Coordinators are requested to email employees and activate your HPA plans. The department encourages the use of alternative modes of transportation, especially when pollution levels are expected to be on the rise.
Ozone: Ground level ozone is formed by a chemical reaction that needs heat from sunlight, nitrogen oxides and VOCs to form. The months of April through September make up our Valley’s longer-than-normal "ozone season."
"High Pollution Advisory" or "HPA" means the highest concentration of pollution may exceed the federal health standard. Active children, adults, and people with lung disease such as asthma should reduce prolonged or heavy outdoor exertion.
Bureau of Land Management crews suppressing Gunsight Fire on the Arizona Strip
The BLM Arizona Strip District’s fire crews are managing a fire located, 16 miles south of Kanab, Utah on lands managed by the BLM Arizona Strip District. The lightning-caused fire, visible from Kanab, was reported at 9 p.m. June 26 and was estimated at 200 acres. Resources on the fire include 2 engines, 1 dozer, 2 water tenders, 1 Helitack crew, and overhead. Crews will be mapping the fire, completing the dozer line and starting mop up operations.
Fire managers are asking for the public’s assistance by avoiding the area to allow crews and resources to access and mitigate the fire.
For more information on the Gunsight Fire please visit: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/azasd-gunsight-fire
For additional information, please contact the Arizona Strip District at 435-688-3200.
Coconino County downgrading to Stage 1 Fire Restrictions Friday
After consultation with partner agencies in the region, Coconino County Emergency Management (CCEM) and the County Manager’s Office will be downgrading the County’s fire restrictions to Stage 1 on Friday June 28, 2024 at 8 a.m.
During Stage 1 fire restrictions the following activities are prohibited at all times, unless exempted by the County’s Wildfire Defense Ordinance:
- Igniting, building, maintaining, or using a fire, including fires fueled by combustible materials such as wood, charcoal, briquettes, and/or coal.
- Smoking outdoors.
- Use of explosive targets, tracer rounds, or incendiary ammunition.
Stage 1 exemptions include fires fueled by combustible materials, such as wood, wood pellet smokers, charcoal, briquettes, and/or coal in a Developed Site, as defined by the Wildfire Defense Ordinance.
As we approach the Independence Day holiday, the public is reminded to always be extra cautious when recreating on public or private lands, regardless of restrictions. Violations could result in fines and/or jail time.
For information on Coconino County’s Stage 1, 2, and 3 fire restrictions please visit: www.coconino.az.gov/firerestrictions.
Information about all Arizona state and federal fire restrictions, including an interactive map, can be found at www.coconino.az.gov/firerestrictions. Additional information about the stages of fire restrictions, Forest Orders, and general forest conditions are available for the Kaibab National Forest at fs.usda.gov/kaibab and the Coconino National Forest at fs.usda.gov/coconino.
Coconino NF moving back to Stage 1 fire restrictions
Due to the amount of rain the forest has received over the last several days that reduced the criteria for meeting Stage 2, Coconino National Forest will move back to Stage 1 fire restrictions Friday (June 28) at 8 a.m.
Stage 1 restrictions prohibit fires, campfires, charcoal, coal, wood stoves, and smudge pots, except within a developed recreation site. Smoking is also prohibited, except within an enclosed vehicle, building or an official developed recreation site. Fireworks are always prohibited on all national forests.
Using a device that is solely fueled by pressurized liquid petroleum, propane, or LPG fuels that can be turned on and off is allowed in areas that are barren or cleared of all overhead and surrounding flammable materials within three feet of the device.
The public is reminded to always be extra cautious when recreating on public lands, regardless of restrictions.
Additional resources for statewide fire restrictions
National forest fire restrictions can differ from local, county, and state fire restrictions, so be sure to check the location of where you are recreating or camping for specific fire restrictions. Below are resources for many different locations across Arizona:
- Az Dept Forestry and Fire Management
- BLM Land
- City of Flagstaff
- Coconino County
- Grand Canyon National Park
- Kaibab NF
- Prescott NF
- Tonto NF
- Yavapai County
Don't be fooled by the rain; we're not out of the woods yet
Don’t be fooled by the recent rains. The White Mountain Zone has been in a prolonged drought and the recent rainfall has only slightly moderated fire conditions. A long-term rain event covering the entire area will be necessary to alleviate the current conditions.
“Don’t let that little bit of moisture trick you into thinking we are out of high fire danger, fire restrictions remain in place” said Johnny Whatley, Fire Management Officer for the ApacheSitgreaves National Forests. “The White Mountain Zone recently received less than an inch of rain which barely moistens leaves and vegetation covering the forest floor that could serve as fuel for wildfires. People may assume we are out of fire danger; however, vegetation may dry in a couple of hours making wildfire conditions likely again.”
“This is the time of year, recreationists are bringing along their boats and RVs to enjoy the forest. People should be aware, roadside vegetation is one area that dries the quickest.” said Stacey Grimes, National Fire Prevention Education Team Lead. “The slightest spark from a dragging trailer safety
chain, parking or driving on dry grass or throwing a lit cigarette from the vehicle can start a devasting wildfire.”
Working together we can protect our beautiful forest from destructive wildfires.
For more information and full details about fire restrictions, visit: 311info.net/firerestrictions or
wildlandfire.az.gov.
Emergency Preparedness for the new Public Safety Power Shutoff Program
In May of this year Arizona Public Service (APS) implemented its Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) program for high fire-risk areas in Yavapai County. PSPS is a safety measure that temporarily shuts off power during periods of high wildfire danger. While PSPS may create hardships, its primary goal is to safeguard lives, properties, and the community’s well-being by preventing wildfires caused by downed power lines.
The Yavapai County Office of Emergency Management (YCOEM) recognizes the importance of preparedness and encourages citizens to develop an emergency plan tailored to the specific needs of their family, including pets and livestock.
Key steps include:
- Ensuring you have a backup power source for essential medical equipment, including for medications that require refrigeration.
- Prepare or restock an emergency kit with adequate supplies of food, water, and medications.
- Identify backup charging methods for phones, learn the manual operation of your garage door, and if you have a generator, ensure that it's ready for safe use. For those on well water, establish a plan for providing water to your animals during an outage.
Once notified of a PSPS occurring within Yavapai County, YCOEM will work closely with APS to ensure the public is kept informed by sharing updates and information on our website, social media accounts (X, Facebook, Instagram), and local media outlets.
APS states that PSPS will only be used when necessary due to weather conditions in communities identified with a high fire risk. PSPS Yavapai County communities include:
- Boynton Pass Rd., and Aerie Rd, west of Enchantment Resort, including the Dry Creek Rd. area;
- Iron Springs, Pine Lakes, Emmanuel Pines, Highland Pines and Dearing Park
- Kirkland, Skull Valley, Rancho Diamante, Tonto Rd., Ruger Ranch, Yava, Hillside, Mule Shoe Ranch and outlying ranches;
- Zonia Mine, Wagoner, Walnut Grove and ranches along Hassayampa River;
- Yavapai Down, Coyote Crest, Mingus West, Prescott Ridge and Mingus Academy Girls School;
- Poland Junction, Mayer and Bensch Ranch;
- Highway 89A north of Owenby Way round-a-bout, Oak Creek Canyon north of Downtown Sedona;
- Potato Patch, Walker, Groom Creek and Wolf Creek.
The Arizona Emergency Information Network (AZEIN) ein.az.gov and APS provide detailed insights into the PSPS approach through their respective websites. Including information on:
- Monitoring conditions: power companies closely monitor fire weather conditions, including wind speed, humidity levels, and vegetation conditions.
- Decision to shut off power: when conditions become extreme, power companies may decide to shut off power in targeted areas to prevent wildfires. The decision to shut of power is based on several factors, including weather and vegetation conditions.
- Notification: customers in participating limited areas will be notified by [APS four days] in advance of power being shut off temporarily. Notifications may be sent via email, text messages, automated phone calls, and the utility's website. It is crucial for customers to ensure their account contact information is up to date to receive alerts from their provider.
- Power restoration: Once extreme fire risk conditions diminish, field crews will inspect the lines that were shut off. If there is no damage, electricity will be restored during daylight hours. In most cases, if a Public Safety Power Shutoff is called, power will be restored after about 20 hours, but the actual duration will depend on current weather conditions and if any equipment repairs are needed.
APS has a map on its website showing which areas are affected. To see if your community may be impacted go to Public Safety Power Shutoff (aps.com), or call APS at (800) 253-9405 for more information.
For information on how to prepare for a Public Safety Power Shutoff, including information on the Functional Needs Registry, please visit our website www.yavapaiready.gov/psps.
For more information about APS and the Medical Care Program, visit https://www.aps.com/psps.
Rain and humidity help slow growth and intensity of the Foote Fire
The Foote Fire is located in the Blue Range Primitive Area and is being managed under a confine-contain strategy, in rugged and inaccessible terrain. Due to recent precipitation and higher relative humidities, the fire is exhibiting low fire intensity. Yesterday’s aerial infrared flight revealed the only activity was along the northwest portion of the fire, and not actively moving down towards U.S. Highway 191. The Foote Fire will transfer command from the Type 3 Incident Management Team to a Type 4 organization at 7 a.m. on June 26, 2024. This will be the final update on the Foote Fire unless fire activity and weather conditions warrant.
Operations: Firefighters are chipping slash along Forest Road 567, and all planned dozer lines have been put in place.
Weather: Today’s forecast calls for partly sunny skies, with a high near 85, and southeast winds of 5 to 7 mph. There is a 70% chance for thunderstorms in the afternoon with potential for strong, erratic outflow winds and lightning.
Restrictions: The Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests are in Stage 2 Fire Restrictions.
Smoke: The public can expect to see smoke in the immediate future, and there is a potential for a U.S. Highway 191 closure in the coming days to provide for the safety of the crews working along the highway edge, as well as for public safety due to smoke impacts along the highway. All areas within proximity of the fire can be impacted by smoke, depending on wind directions and ventilation. Go to fire.airnow.gov/ to see the latest smoke conditions in your community.
Evacuations: None at this time, and no structures are currently threatened.
Fire details:
- Location of Origin: 12 miles south of Alpine
- Size: 4,553 acres
- Start Date: June 14, 2024
- Percent Contained: 0
- Cause: Lightning/Natural Fuels: Timber, brush, and grass
- Personnel: 103
- Resources Assigned: 4 Crews, 1 Helicopter, 1 Dozer, 1 Brush Chipper
Official fire information:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/apachesitgreavesnfs
- Inciweb: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/azasf-foote-fire
Foot Fire Update: Blaze Grows to 3,934 Acres; Containment efforts intensify amid challenging conditions
Location of Origin: 12 miles south of Alpine Size: 3,934 acres
Start Date: June 14, 2024 Percent Contained: 0
Cause: Lightning/Natural Fuels: Timber, brush, and grass
Personnel: 124
Resources Assigned: 5 Crews, 1 Helicopter, 1 Dozer
The Foote Fire is located in the Blue Range Primitive Area, and is being managed under a confine-contain strategy, due to its rugged and inaccessible terrain. The fire continues to exhibit low to moderate intensity and has not reached pre-planned containment lines. An aerial Infrared flight yesterday showed the most fireactivity along the northwest portion of the fire, approximately one mile from the Josh Ranch. The fire has shown very little growth to the east towards the Blue River, or advancement north to Forest Road (FR) 567.
Operations: Firefighters continue to prepare U.S. Highway 191 and FR 567 for use as containment lines. A dozer along with ground crews have completed a fire line around three homes along FR 567 and are improving existing forest roads outside of the Primitive Area to prevent fire spread to U.S. Highway 191.
Weather: Today’s forecast calls for partly sunny skies, with a high near 80, and south winds of 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph. There is a chance for thunderstorms this afternoon, with potential for strong, erratic outflow winds and lightning. This increasing moisture will begin to raise minimum and overnight relative humidities starting tonight.
Restrictions: The Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests are in Stage 2 Fire Restrictions. Learn more at: Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests - Alerts & Closures (usda.gov).
Smoke: The public can expect to see smoke in the immediate future, and there is a potential for a U.S. Highway 191 closure in the coming days to provide for the safety of the crews working along the highway edge, as well as for public safety due to smoke impacts along the highway. All areas within proximity of the fire can be impacted
by smoke, depending on wind directions and ventilation. Go to fire.airnow.gov/ to see the latest smoke
conditions in your community.
Evacuations: None at this time, and no structures are currently threatened.
Official fire information can be found on these sites:
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/apachesitgreavesnfs
• Inciweb: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/azasf-foote-fire
• Apache-Sitgreaves website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/asnf
Interagency National Fire Prevention Education Team deployed to support emergency fire conditions in the White Mountain Zone
Critical fire weather and extremely dry conditions have increased the fire potential for much of the White Mountain Zone. To support these emergency fire conditions, the Southwest Coordination Group has deployed an 11-person federal and state, multi-agency National Fire Prevention Education Team (NFPET), all professionals in wildfire prevention and education. The goal of the NFPET is to increase public awareness of the heightened wildfire risk, promote fire safety messaging, and help reduce the chances of human-caused fire.
According to Matt Engbring, Co-chair of the Southwest Prevention Information Committee, "Any ignition that occurs may result in wildfires that burn intensely, with dangerous fire behaviors resistant to suppression efforts. Please be ultra-careful with anything that could cause a spark."
Stacey Grimes, Team Lead, commented, "Everyone can do their part to protect this beautiful area and prevent a wildfire: Secure trailer safety chains, do not park in dry grass, and follow current restrictions. Should you see smoke, or a wildfire call 911."
For detailed information regarding fire prevention information and fire restrictions, please visit: www.wildlandfire.az.gov and/or www.311info.net.
For all public and media inquiries regarding the White Mountain Zone NFPET, please contact: Matthew Engbring (928) 326-3753
[email protected]
Deadline Approaching in Arizona for SBA Working Capital Loans Due to Drought
Francisco Sánchez Jr., associate administrator for the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the Small Business Administration, today reminded small nonfarm businesses in five Arizona counties and a neighboring county in Utah of the July 22, 2024, deadline to apply for an SBA federal disaster loan for economic injury. These low-interest loans are to offset economic losses because of reduced revenues caused by drought in the following primary county that began Sept. 26, 2023.
Primary Arizona county: Navajo;
Neighboring Arizona counties: Apache, Coconino, Gila and Graham;
Neighboring Utah county: San Juan.
According to Sánchez, small nonfarm businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations of any size may apply for Economic Injury Disaster Loans of up to $2 million to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. “Economic Injury Disaster Loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills that cannot be paid because of the disaster’s impact,” said Sánchez.
“SBA eligibility covers both the economic impacts on businesses dependent on farmers and ranchers that have suffered agricultural production losses caused by the disaster and businesses directly impacted by the disaster. Economic injury assistance is available regardless of whether the applicant suffered any property damage,” Sánchez added.
The interest rate is 4 percent for businesses and 2.375 percent for private nonprofit organizations with terms up to 30 years. Loan amounts and terms are set by SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition.
Interest does not begin to accrue until 12 months from the date of the initial disaster loan disbursement. SBA disaster loan repayment begins 12 months from the date of the first disbursement.
By law, SBA makes Economic Injury Disaster Loans available when the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture designates an agricultural disaster. The Secretary declared this disaster on Nov. 20, 2023.
Businesses primarily engaged in farming or ranching are not eligible for SBA disaster assistance. Agricultural enterprises should contact the Farm Services Agency about the U.S. Department of Agriculture assistance made available by the Secretary’s declaration. However, nurseries are eligible for SBA disaster assistance in drought disasters.
Applicants may apply online and receive additional disaster assistance information at SBA.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email [email protected] for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.
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About the U.S. Small Business Administration
The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.
Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests move to Stage 2 Fire Restrictions effective June 20, 2024
The Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests implemented Stage 2 Fire Restrictions effective at 8 a.m. on June 20, 2024. The purpose of these restrictions is to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires during periods of high fire danger and severe fire weather conditions. Criteria used to determine when to implement fire restrictions include current and predicted weather, fuel moisture, fire activity levels and available firefighting resources.
What is prohibited:
- Building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire, campfire, or stove fire, including charcoal, coal, and briquettes. 36 C.F.R. § 261.52(a).
- 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 any flammable material. 36 C.F.R. § 261.52(d).
The Following Acts Are Prohibited From 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.:
- Operating a generator, chainsaw or other equipment powered by an internal combustion engine for felling, bucking, skidding, processing, road building and woodcutting during industrial operations or firewood gathering capable of igniting a fire. 36 C.F.R. § 261.52(h), (j).
- Using an explosive. 36 C.F.R. § 261.52(b).
- Blasting, welding, or operating any acetylene or other torch with an open flame. 36 C.F.R. 261.52(i).
Exemptions:
- Persons using a stove or grill that is solely fueled by pressurized liquid petroleum or pressurized liquid petroleum gas (LPG) fuels.
- Persons with Forest Service Permit No. FS-7700-48 (Permit for Use of Roads, Trails, or Areas Restricted by Regulation or Order), specifically exempting them from this Order or a written determination by a Forest Service authorized officer that a permit is not required under 36 C.F.R. § 251.50(e)(1) or (2).
- Any Federal, State, or Local Officer, or member of an organized rescue or firefighting resource in the performance of an official duty.
To view Forest Order 03-01-24-15: Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests Stage 2 Fire Restrictions, please go to the Alerts & Notices page on our website.
Crews continue to build fire lines around Foote fire
The Foote Fire continues to burn in remote terrain in the Blue Range Primitive Area, consuming dead and down fuels with low to moderate intensity. Fire growth has been moderate with overnight spread to the northwest and southeast. Fire managers expect occasional torching and small fire runs when the fire reaches pockets of heavier fuel loading. The fire edge is currently about 12 miles south of Alpine, one mile east of the Josh Ranch, and approximately three miles east of Blue, AZ.
Firefighters are currently preparing US Highway 191 and FR 567 for use as containment lines. One helicopter is currently assigned and is being utilized for aerial observation to track the fire spread and behavior. Values at risk include three private homes along the FR 567, and crews are constructing fire line around the private property for protection, utilizing a dozer.
Weather: Today’s forecast calls for windy terrain influenced southeasterly flow sunny skies, with a high near 87. Southwest wind 6 to 8 mph, with gusts as high as 15 mph. Chances for thunderstorms increase Thursday afternoon, with potential for strong, erratic outflow winds and lightning. This increasing moisture will begin to raise minimum and overnight relative humidities starting tomorrow night.
Restrictions: The Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests are in Stage 1 Fire Restrictions. Expect Stage 2 Restrictions by the weekend. Learn more at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/asnf/alerts-notices/?aid=87925
Smoke: The public can expect to see smoke in the immediate future, and there is a potential for a US Highway 191 closure in the coming days to provide for the safety of the crews working along the highway edge, as well as for public safety due to smoke impacts along the highway. All areas within proximity of the fire can be impacted by smoke, depending on wind directions and ventilation. Go to fire.airnow.gov/ to see the latest smoke conditions in your community.
Evacuations: None at this time
Fire details
- Location of Origin: 12 miles south of Alpine
- Size: 2,000 acres (approximately)
- Start Date: June 14, 2024
- Percent Contained: 0
- Cause: Lightning/Natural
- Fuels: Timber, brush, and grass
- Personnel: 64
- Resources Assigned: 2 Crew, 1 Helicopter, 1 Dozer
Official fire information:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/apachesitgreavesnfs
- Apache-Sitgreaves website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/asnf
DFFM announces Stage 2 fire restrictions across northern and northeastern Arizona
Lingering hot weather and a lack of moisture coupled with fire behavior intensity warrants the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management to increase fire restrictions across northern and northeastern Arizona. Starting Friday, June 21, at 8 am, Stage 2 fire restrictions go into effect on State Trust land within Apache and Navajo Counties, as well as within Coconino County, south of the Grand Canyon. In addition, DFFM will place State Trust land in Coconino County, north of the Grand Canyon into Stage 1.
Campfires are not allowed under Stage 2 restrictions. Target shooting and fireworks are also not allowed on State Trust lands regardless of restrictions.
The Stage 2 restrictions also mean DFFM’s Industrial Plan C is in effect to include, restrictions on time of use for chainsaws, mechanical fellers, masticators, and chippers. A fire guard must be in place for industrial activities.
Restrictions apply to all state-owned and state-managed lands within the above-mentioned counties including:
- All Game and Fish Commission Wildlife areas and department properties outside incorporated municipalities.
- All State Parks outside incorporated municipalities – State Parks do have fire restrictions in place. Please refer to https://azstateparks.com/fire-safety – for park-specific fire restriction information.
- All Department of Transportation highway, right-of-way property outside incorporated municipalities, not owned by federal land management agencies.
Restrictions include:
- No campfires. Building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire, campfire, charcoal, coal fire, or wood stove, including in developed campgrounds or improved sites is prohibited.
- Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building.
- No chainsaw usage from 9am – 8pm.
- Discharging a firearm, air rifle or gun gas, unless while engaged in a lawful hunt pursuant to state, federal, or tribal laws and regulations is prohibited.
- Fireworks or another incendiary device are prohibited.
- Mechanical and industrial prohibitions include, operating any internal combustion engine, welding or operating acetylene or other torch with an open flame, and using explosives.
Exemptions include:
- Persons with a written permit that specifically authorizes the otherwise prohibited act. This process can be utilized in cases where public works and public utility emergency repairs are necessary.
- Industrial operations where specific operations and exemptions are identified and mitigation measures are implemented as outline in an agency plan.
- Persons using a device fueled by liquid petroleum or LPG fuels that can be turned on and off is permitted. Such devices can only be used in an area that is barren or clear of all overhead and surrounding flammable materials within three feet of the device.
- Operating generators with an approved spark arresting device within an enclosed vehicle or building, or in an area that is barren or cleared of all overhead and surrounding flammable materials with three feet of the generator.
- Operating motorized vehicles on designated roads and you must park in an area devoid of vegetation within 10 feet of the roadway.
- Persons conducting activities in those designated areas where the activity is specifically authorized by written posted notice.
- Any federal, state or local law enforcement officer, or member of an organized rescue or firefighting organization, or other authorized personnel in the performance of an official duty.
- All land within a city boundary is exempted unless otherwise stated in a city ordinance.
- Discharging of firearms is allowed on agency designated shooting ranges.
If local authorities have imposed stronger restrictions, than those listed above, the local restrictions shall apply. All exemptions to these restrictions must be approved by the State Forester. These restrictions apply to all permit and lease holders and other authorized users of state-managed lands. These restrictions do not apply to private lands under ARS §37-1303.
Restrictions are effective at 8 am on Friday, June 21, 2024, and will continue until rescinded. For statewide fire restriction information go to WildlandFire.az.gov
For more information, contact Tiffany Davila at (602) 540-1036 or by email at [email protected]
Firefighters use containment lines from past fires to set Foote fire perimeters
Firefighters are continuing to monitor and assess the fire. We have been observing by air the fire location and perimeter as it continues to grow. We are looking at minimizing high fire severity burn by using fire in the right locations to maintain a low to moderate fire intensities in the vicinity of the fire. Crews and heavy equipment will continue prepping and reopening some of the old containment lines from previous fires to include Forest Road 567 and Highway 191 corridor.
The Foote fire behavior has been moderate to low burning naturally consuming down and dead fuels to ash. Currently no values are at risk. Josh Ranch is about 2 miles to the west and the community of Blue is about 3 miles to the east. The public is advised to drive with caution on Forest Road 567 and Highway 191 where fire personnel and vehicles are present. News releases will be posted every other day unless there are major changes.
Weather: Today’s forecast calls for sunny skies, with a high near 83. South winds 7 to 17 mph, with gusts as high as 26 mph. with low humidity 9 to 14%. We are expecting some moisture by the end of this
week.
Restrictions: The Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests are in Stage 1 Fire Restrictions, learn more at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/asnf/alerts-notices/?aid=87925
Smoke: Communities of Alpine and Blue might be affected by smoke, Go to fire.airnow.gov/ to see the latest smoke conditions in your community. Smoke may be visible from the surrounding communities.
Evacuations: None at this time
Fire details:
Location of Origin: 12 miles south of Alpine
Size: 1493 acres
Start Date: June 14, 2024
Percent Contained: 0
Cause: Lightning/Natural Fuels: Timber, brush, and grass
Personnel: 64
Resources Assigned: 2 Crew, 1 Helicopter, 1 Dozer
Official fire information:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/apachesitgreavesnfs
Apache-Sitgreaves website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/asnf
Stage 2 fire restrictions on the Kaibab National Forest to begin Friday, June 21
Due to increased fire danger and for public safety, the Kaibab National Forest will implement Stage 2 fire restrictions forest wide beginning 8 a.m. Friday, June 21. A temporary area closure will also be implemented for the Bill Williams Mountain watershed, located just south of the City of Williams, due to the area's susceptibility to uncharacteristically severe wildfire and the post-wildfire flooding that would potentially result.
Stage 2 fire restrictions prohibit the following:
- Building, maintaining, or using a fire, campfire, or stove fire, including charcoal, coal, and briquettes, even in developed recreation sites. This includes smudge pots, pellet grills, and wood stoves. The only exception is using a stove or grill that is solely fueled by pressurized liquid petroleum or pressurized liquid petroleum gas (LPG) fuels.
- Smoking (except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least 3 feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of any flammable material).
- Blasting, welding, or operating any acetylene or other torch with an open flame.
- During the hours of 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., operating a generator, chainsaw or other equipment powered by an internal combustion engine for felling, bucking, skidding, processing, road building and woodcutting during industrial operations or firewood gathering capable of igniting a fire. An exception is allowed for operating generators with an approved spark arrestor in an area barren or cleared of all overhead and surrounding flammable materials within 3 feet of the generator.
Explosives and fireworks are NEVER allowed.
The Kaibab National Forest’s Stage 2 fire restrictions do not prohibit target shooting. However, all existing regulations pertaining to discharging a firearm still apply.
In general, the perimeter of the Bill Williams Mountain watershed temporary closure area includes Forest Road 122 to the south, Forest Road 108 to the west, County Road 73 (aka “South Road”) to the east, and Interstate 40 to the north. Details, including a map of the closure area, will be available on the Kaibab NF website www.fs.usda.gov/kaibab.
Violations could result in mandatory appearance in a federal court, fines, and/or jail time.
Forest managers consider several factors before implementing fire restrictions or forest closures, including current fire danger and fire activity, local, regional, and national fire preparedness levels, expected weather conditions, availability of firefighting resources, and the economic impacts on businesses and communities. The Kaibab National Forest continues to coordinate with federal, state, tribal and local partners.
Restrictions and closures typically remain in effect until the area receives significant, widespread precipitation.
For restriction information on state and federally managed lands in Arizona, visit wildlandfire.az.gov/fire-restrictions. Find restriction information for Coconino County at coconino.az.gov/2595/Fire-Restriction-Information.
Coconino and Kaibab National Forests strengthening fire restrictions Friday, June 21
Although there is potential for precipitation this weekend, fire danger in Coconino County remains significantly high. Representatives from both
Coconino and Kaibab National Forests have indicated their intent to move to Stage 2 fire restrictions Friday, June 21 at 8 a.m. Per Coconino County Ordinance 2024-01, Coconino County Emergency Management (CCEM) will implement Stage 2 fire restrictions in all unincorporated areas of the County at the same time.
Under the County’s Stage 2 restrictions the following activities are prohibited at all times, in all County jurisdictions:
- Igniting, building, maintaining, or using a fire, including fires fueled by
- combustible materials such as wood, charcoal, briquettes, and/or coal.
- Smoking outdoors.
- Use of internal combustion engines for common household-only activities, such as landscaping or property maintenance and repair.
- Use of explosive targets, tracer rounds, or incendiary ammunition.
- Outdoor mechanical and industrial operations such as welding and/or the use of acetylene or other torch with an open flame.
Using a stove, wood pellet smoker, grill, fire ring, or other manufactured device that is fueled solely by pressurized liquid petroleum or pressurized liquid petroleum gas (LPG) fuel that can be turned on and turned off (for example, a gas grill) is permitted provided the devices are located within a Developed Site as defined by the County’s Wildfire Defense Ordinance. The use of fireworks is always prohibited on all National Forest and State lands.
Fire restrictions are implemented to help prevent human-caused fires and to limit the exposure of visitors during periods of potentially dangerous fire conditions. Decisions about fire restrictions are based on a combination of carefully measured factors. Criteria used to determine when to implement restrictions include current and predicted weather, fuel moisture, fire activity levels, enduring drought, and available firefighting resources.
Additional restrictions could be forthcoming if conditions warrant. Fire restrictions typically remain in effect until the region receives significant, widespread precipitation.
The public is reminded to always be extra cautious when recreating on private or public land, regardless of restrictions. Violations could result in fines and/or jail time.
For information on Coconino County’s Stage 1, 2, and 3 fire restrictions please visit: www.coconino.az.gov/firerestrictions.
Information about all Arizona state and federal fire restrictions, including an interactive map, can be found at www.coconino.az.gov/firerestrictions. Additional information about the stages of fire restrictions, Forest Orders, and general forest conditions are available for the Kaibab National Forest at fs.usda.gov/kaibab and the Coconino National Forest at fs.usda.gov/coconino.
Additional resources on scene to minimize Foote fire, Red Flag Warning in effect
Firefighters are currently on scene monitoring and assessing the fire we are looking at minimizing high fire severity burn by using fire in the right locations to maintain a low to moderate fire intensities in the vicinity of the fire. Crews continue prepping Forest Road 567 And Highway 191 corridor.
The Foote fire behavior has been moderate to low burning naturally consuming down and dead fuels to ash. Currently no values are at risk. The public is advised to drive with caution on Forest Road 567 and Highway 191 where fire personnel and vehicles are present. Starting today, Monday June 17, 2024, news releases will be posted every other day unless major changes.
Weather: Today’s forecast calls for sunny skies, with a high near 83. Southwest wind 8 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph. with a Red Flag Warning in effect due to strong winds and low humidity.
Restrictions: The Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests are in Stage 1 Fire Restrictions, learn more at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/asnf/alerts-notices/?aid=87925
Smoke: Communities of Alpine and Blue might be affected by smoke, Go to fire.airnow.gov/ to see the latest smoke conditions in your community. Smoke may be visible from the surrounding communities.
Evacuations: None at this time
Fire details
Location of Origin: 12 miles south of Alpine
Size: 1158 acres
Start Date: June 14, 2024
Percent Contained: 0
Cause: Lightning/Natural
Fuels: Timber, brush, and grass
Personnel: 55
Resources Assigned: 2 Crew, 1 Helicopter
Official fire information:
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/apachesitgreavesnfs
• Apache-Sitgreaves website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/asnf
Foote Fire update; Alpine and Blue communities may be affected by smoke
Firefighters are currently on scene monitoring. Additional resources have been ordered and are enroute. The Foote fire is currently moving around through ground fuels and making uphill runs when encountering slope. Currently no values are at risk. The public is advised to drive with caution on Forest Road 567 and Highway 191 where fire personnel and vehicles are present. More information will be released as it becomes available.
Weather: Today’s forecast calls for sunny skies with a high of 85 degrees, light and variable winds becoming southwest 8 - 13 mph and gusts as high as 20 mph.
Restrictions: The Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests are in Stage 1 Fire Restrictions, learn more at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/asnf/alerts-notices/?aid=87925
Smoke: Communities of Alpine and Blue might be affected by smoke, Go to fire.airnow.gov/ to see the latest smoke conditions in your community. Smoke may be visible from the surrounding communities.
Evacuations: None at this time
Fire details
- Location of Origin: 12 miles south of Alpine
- Size: 260 acres
- Start Date: June 14, 2024
- Percent Contained: 0
- Cause: Lightning/Natural
- Fuels: Timber, brush, and grass
- Personnel: 37
- Resources Assigned: 1 Crew, 1 Helicopter
Official fire information
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/apachesitgreavesnfs
- Apache-Sitgreaves website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/asnf