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With fire danger extremely high, increasing temperatures, and little to no rainfall in the forecast,
the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management will implement Stage 2 fire restrictions on State Trust Land across Central and Northern Arizona this week.

On Thursday, May 26, 2022, Stage 2 restrictions take effect for DFFM on State Trust Lands within Apache, Coconino –south of the Grand Canyon, Gila, La Paz, Maricopa, Mohave, Navajo, Yavapai, and Yuma Counties. Stage 2 restrictions prohibit campfires and outdoor smoking. Also, in effect under Stage 2, is DFFM’s Industrial Plan C. The Industrial Plan C includes time of use limitations for chainsaws, mechanical fellers, masticators and chippers. A fireguard must be in place for industrial activities. On Wednesday, May 25, Stage 2 restrictions take effect on State Trust Lands in Southern Arizona.

Target shooting and fireworks are always prohibited year-round on State Trust Lands.

Stage II Restriction Guidelines:

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 use 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 devices 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 an explosive.

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 outlined 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 exempt unless otherwise stated in a city ordinance.

The State Forester must approve exemptions to these restrictions. If local authorities have imposed stronger restrictions then those listed above, than the local restrictions shall apply. These restrictions apply to all permit and leaseholders and other authorized users of state-managed lands. These restrictions do not apply to private lands under ARS § 37-1303.

Restrictions are effective at 8am on May 26, 2022, and will continue until rescinded. Fire restrictions information: WildlandFire.az.gov

Fueled by winds and pockets of dry vegetation, the fire stayed active overnight. The fire made a push to the east, but firefighters were able to safely and directly engage it to keep it from coming off Mustang Mountain and toward high priority values at risk. One of today’s main objectives is to keep the fire from moving to the east near kilovolt (kV) lines that supply power to the communities of Fort Huachuca and Sierra Vista. To meet those objectives, additional hand crews and aircraft have been ordered for Tuesday. Crews will also work today to establish containment line at the head of the fire to keep the fire south of State Route 82 and out of the Rain Valley community. Other objectives include, keeping the fire away from Upper Elgin Road to protect the communities of Elgin and Sonoita and slowing spread to the southeast to protect the Babacomari Ranch.

Fuels are unseasonably dry, thus fire behavior at times, can be erratic and extreme. As with more recent fires in Southern Arizona
over the last few weeks, the Elgin Bridge Fire has been wind-driven, pushing through tall and short grass, brush, and chaparral.
Tuesday’s weather may escalate fire behavior and challenge efforts to suppress the fire. A Red Flag Warning has been issued for
the southeastern portion of the state. While the warning does not specifically include the fire area, increased winds, warm
temperatures, and low relative humidity play a role in fire activity. Due to those conditions, moderate growth is expected for
Tuesday. The fire is burning in a semi-remote area and impacting State Trust, Bureau of Land Management and private lands. The
Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office has lifted the GO notification for residences along Mustang Ranch Road, east of Elgin. Scattered ranch houses ahead of the fire also remain impacted, and while there are no additional SET or GO notifications, residents are urged to stay alert and have situational awareness. Wildfire conditions can change at a moment’s notice and residents must stay prepared for ever-evolving circumstances.

An estimated 210 personnel are on the fire including state, federal and local cooperators. Twelve engines, seven hand crews,
along with aircraft resources are assigned. The fire started Monday morning, May 23, northeast of Elgin within Santa Cruz County. It is under investigation. There are no road closures at this time, but drivers should check with the Arizona Department of Transportation for road updates and closure information. Stage 2 fire restrictions take effect on state and federal lands on
Wednesday, May 25, 2022, at 0800. For the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management, that includes State Trust Land within Cochise, Graham, Greenlee, Pima, Pinal, and Santa Cruz Counties.

Information resources
Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/8119/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/azstateforestry
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arizonastateforestry

Due to increased fire danger and for public safety, the Kaibab National Forest will elevate to Stage 2 fire restrictions forest wide beginning 8 a.m. Thursday, May 26.

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.

Violations could result in mandatory appearance in a federal court, fines, and/or jail time.

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.

Stage 3 restrictions/closures may be forthcoming if conditions warrant. 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. 

Fire restrictions typically remain in effect until the area receives significant, widespread precipitation.

Other national forests and neighboring agencies are also elevating fire restrictions this week. 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. Additional information about the stages of fire restrictions, forest orders, and general forest conditions can be found at fs.usda.gov/kaibab.
 

Due to warmer weather conditions, increased fire danger, and for public safety, Coconino National Forest will implement Stage 2 fire restrictions beginning 8 a.m. Thursday, May 26.

The forest has been under Stage 1 fire restrictions since May 5, which prohibit campfires across the forest and limits them to developed recreations sites only.

However, with warmer and windy weather, as well as key criteria being met, stricter fire restrictions will be implemented across the entire national forest--including developed recreation sites.

Stage 2 fire restrictions prohibit the following:

• Building, maintaining, or using a fire, campfire, or stove fire, including charcoal, coal, and briquettes. This includes smudge pots 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.

Visitors should use caution and keep from driving over areas of vegetation to place their trailers or to unload their tents and camping supplies. This is to keep catalytic converters and other sources of heat underneath the vehicle from igniting vegetation. Additionally, fireworks of any kind are NEVER allowed on national forests.

Fire restrictions will remain in place until the forest receives significant precipitation or until Aug. 31. Violation of the restrictions on national forests is punishable by a fine of up to $5,000, imprisonment up to six months, or both.

View the official Stage 2 Forest Order here.

Due to increasing fire danger the Prescott National Forest is planning to enter Stage 2 fire restrictions on Thursday, May 26, 2022, at 8 a.m.

The Forest has been under Stage 1 fire restrictions since May 5, which prohibits recreational target shooting and campfires across the forest; and limits them to developed campsites only. However, warmer, and windy weather, as well as key criteria are being met, which merits implementation of increased fire restrictions.   These additional fire restrictions will remain in effect until forest officials determine that conditions have changed sufficiently to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfire.

Stage 2 fire restrictions prohibit the following:

• Building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire, campfire, or stove fire, including charcoal, coal, and briquettes.
• 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.
• Welding, or operating any acetylene or other torch with an open flame.
• Discharging a firearm, air rifle, or gas gun.
• Operating a chainsaw or other equipment operated by an internal combustion engine between the hours of 9:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M.

Know Before You Go! The public can obtain current state and federal fire restrictions information across Arizona on the Arizona Interagency Wildfire Prevention and Information website .  The map is a culmination of work from federal, state, and local agencies who hope to explain to the public where it is safe to have fires and where it’s not. The map shows all fire restrictions in New Mexico and Arizona, regardless of jurisdiction.

For fire information please call (928) 925-1111; or stay up to date on Prescott National Forest news by checking the Prescott NF website and following us on Facebook and Twitter.      

The Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests will implement forest-wide Stage 2 fire restrictions at 8 a.m. Thursday, May 26, 2022. The restrictions are necessary to reduce human-caused wildfires during periods of high fire danger and persistent severe fire conditions. Forest Order #03-01-22-10 and Exhibit A are on the forest website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/asnf/alerts-notices

Under Stage 2 fire restrictions the following activities are prohibited:

• Building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire, campfire, or stove fire, including charcoal 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).
• Blasting, welding, or operating an acetylene or other torch with open flame. 36 C.F.R. § 261.52(i).
• Using an explosive. 36 C.F.R. § 261.52(b).
• Possessing or using a motor vehicle off National Forest System roads, except when parking in an area devoid of vegetation within 10 feet of the roadway and except for parking overnight in Forest Service developed campgrounds and trailheads. 36 C.F.R. § 261.56.

Forest managers consider several factors before implementing fire restrictions, 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 Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests coordinate fire restrictions with federal, state, tribal and local partners.

Violations are punishable by a fine of not more than $5,000 for individuals and $10,000 for organizations and/or imprisonment for not more than six (6) months.

Stay up to date on news from the A - S at our website https://www.fs.usda.gov/asnf, on Twitter @A_SNFs and on facebook.com/apachesitgreavesnfs.

On Wednesday, May 25, 2022, Stage 2 campfire and smoking restrictions go into effect on state and federal lands throughout Southern and Southeastern Arizona.
Agencies entering Stage 2 restrictions include:

• Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Gila District within: Cochise, Graham, Greenlee, Pima, Pinal and Santa Cruz Counties
• Coronado National Forest – all districts
• Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management for State Trust Lands within: Cochise, Graham, Greenlee, Pima, Pinal and Santa Cruz counties

Beginning May 25, 2022, and until rescinded, the following are prohibited:

• Building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire, campfire, charcoal, coal, or wood stove fire,
• including within developed campgrounds or improved sites. Pressurized liquid or gas stoves,
• lanterns, and heaters with shut-off devices are allowed. When using a portable stove, make sure
• the area is clear of grasses and other fine fuels
• Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building. Smoking is prohibited in all federal buildings.
• Discharging a firearm, including target shooting, except while engaged in a lawful hunt pursuant to
• state, federal, or tribal laws and regulations
• Mechanical and industrial prohibitions: operating any internal combustion engine off designated
• roadways, welding or operating acetylene or other torch with an open flame, and using an explosive.
• Fireworks and exploding targets are never allowed on federal and State Trust Lands.

Violations of restrictions are punishable by fine, imprisonment, or both. Violators may also be held personally responsible for reimbursement of wildland fire suppression costs.

Along with state and federal fire restrictions, local municipalities may also have their own restrictions in place. Residents and visitors should check with their respective county and municipal governments for information on fire restrictions in those jurisdictions.

National Park Service and U.S. Fish and Wildfire Service units across Arizona maintain fire restrictions year-round. Variations are possible, so visitors should check with the appropriate unit’s visitor center for area-specific restrictions and regulations.

Always be fire safe and take personal responsibility when recreating and before getting on the road. Make sure your vehicle is in good working order, check the tires, secure tow chains, and never pull the vehicle off into tall vegetation as the catalytic converter can ignite the fuel. Do not toss cigarettes out of the window; use an ashtray
instead.

Fire conditions, restrictions, and localized closures are subject to change. Tribal, federal, state, and local mandates can vary from agency to agency. For a more detailed explanation in regards to agency restrictions, general fire information and prevention tips, contact the land management agency you plan to visit at:
WildlandFire.az.gov.

Temperatures are rapidly rising and schools are letting out, which means summer is here. And since summers in Arizona get really hot, the Arizona Department of Transportation wants to remind drivers to protect themselves and their vehicles this summer.

Governor Doug Ducey has proclaimed this week, May 23 - 27, as Heat Awareness Week. And for those traveling in and around Arizona this summer, ADOT has compiled some safety tips to help make sure you are prepared for soaring summer temperatures.

Make sure your vehicle is ready to beat the heat and won’t break down on a 110-degree day by doing the following:

• Test your battery, especially if it is more than 3 years old. Heat can zap batteries, and a dead battery could leave you stranded far from home.
• Check your coolant levels and top them off if necessary. If you are due for a coolant flush, consider getting that done before going anywhere too far away.
• Make sure your vehicle’s air conditioner is in good working order.
• Confirm that your tires are properly inflated and in good condition to reduce the risk of blowouts.
• Stock your vehicle with a first-aid kit, jumper cables and safety flares.

Finally, make sure you are prepared to endure the heat while traveling by planning your route in advance using az511.gov. Also, pack an emergency kit that includes things like sunscreen, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat and an umbrella. Also a cooler with cold drinking water and healthy snacks. Finally, have a fully-charged cell phone and any necessary medications.

Find additional tips at azdot.gov/extreme-heat.

Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS) has recently received an increase in the number of reports of gastrointestinal illness consistent with norovirus. Symptoms of norovirus include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, headache, body aches, and mild fever.

CCHHS is investigating the circumstances surrounding the illnesses and is encouraging individuals to take precautions to prevent infection.

An individual can help prevent norovirus transmission through the following actions:

• Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol can be used. Hand sanitizers aren’t as effective as washing hands with water and soap at removing norovirus particles.
• Avoid sharing food or drinks with other people, especially when you’re sick or they’re sick.
• If ill, stay hydrated and contact your healthcare provider with concerns or if symptoms worsen.
• When sick, limit interaction with other people as much as possible to prevent further spread and do not prepare food or care for others.
• Clean surfaces with soap and water and sanitize with a 10% bleach solution to kill norovirus. Launder soiled clothing in hot water promptly.

Norovirus spreads very easily, including through direct contact with an infected person, touching a surface or object contaminated with norovirus, or eating food or drinking liquids contaminated with norovirus. Norovirus can be found in an infected person’s vomit or feces (poop) even before they experience symptoms. The virus can also stay in feces for two weeks or more after symptoms resolve. It is important to continue frequent hand washing during this time.

Symptoms typically begin 24 to 48 hours after exposure to the virus. A very small amount of virus can make someone sick.

Norovirus illness is often mistakenly called “stomach flu,” although norovirus is not related to

influenza. Influenza is a respiratory illness, with symptoms that include high fever, chills, body

aches, sneezing, runny nose, sore throat, and/or coughing. Norovirus is not a respiratory illness and is not spread through breathing or coughing.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), norovirus is the leading cause of illness and outbreaks from contaminated food in the United States. Norovirus outbreaks frequently occur in settings where people live in close quarters and can easily infect each other and many of these outbreaks occur in food service settings.

Although the symptoms may be severe, norovirus rarely causes serious illness or death. There is no specific medicine to treat people with norovirus illness. Individuals with norovirus symptoms should drink plenty of liquids to replace fluid lost from throwing up and diarrhea to prevent dehydration. If you or someone you are caring for is severely dehydrated or has concerns, contact your healthcare provider.

For more information visit https://www.cdc.gov/norovirus/about/index.html.

The Prescott National Forest assumed command of the Crooks Fire yesterday evening.  The Central West Zone Incident Management Team lead by Ryan Barela did a fantastic job managing the fire and produced a solid plan for local resources.  

Fire activity has been minimal with no growth. Firefighters will continue to closely monitor the fire on the ground and utilize aerial resources as needed until the fire is fully contained.  A fire is considered “contained” when firefighters are confident the line around the perimeter of a fire will prevent the fire from spreading any further.  

The Prescott National Forest released a new Forest Order on May 18, 2022, at 8 A.M. reducing the Crooks Fire Public Safety closure area. Detailed information and a map are available on the Prescot National Forest Website: Order Number: 03-09-03-22-07  and Area Map.  Post-fire hazards are within the closure area. Unstable soils and falling rock potential exist within the fire-scarred area.  As a reminder, residents within the Crooks Fire area need to utilize caution while driving on the roads as firefighters continue to work in and around the fire.  Hazards still exist in and around the fire area and residents living nearby should utilize care as fire-weakened trees, ash pits, and burned stump holes remain.  The roads on the boundary of the closure area remain closed to the public except for County Road 56 (Senator Highway) which will be open.  

Recreation sites that remain CLOSED to the public: Groom Creek Trail Head 307, Groom Creek Loop Trail #307, Isabella Trail #377, Spruce Mountain Lookout and Picnic Site.  Groom Creek Horse Camp will re-open once residual base camp personnel, associated equipment and debris is removed.  All other developed recreation day-use sites are open. For a complete list visit the Prescott National Forest website.

REMINDER:  Stage 1 Fire Restrictions are in place on the Prescott National Forest and State Trust Lands within Yavapai County.  Campfires are restricted to developed campsites only and smoking is only allowed inside a building or vehicle. Target shooting and fireworks are prohibited on both the Prescott National Forest and all State Trust land.  For detailed information: WildlandFire.az.gov

For additional information related to the closure,  please call the Bradshaw Ranger District at (928) 443-8000.

For information on the Prescott National Forest, check out the Prescott NF website and following us on Facebook and Twitter.     

RESTRICTED AREA
The Restricted Area consists of all National Forest System lands, waters, roads, and trails within the boundary starting at the intersection of National Forest System Road (FR) 52A and County Road (CR) 56, also referred to as Senator Highway, then following east along FR 52A for approximately 4 miles to the intersection with FR 9404R, then following southeast along FR 9404R for approximately 1 mile to the intersection with FR 9404H, then following southwest along FR 9404H for approximately 1 mile to the non-Forest Service ownership boundary, then following southwest along the non-Forest Service ownership boundary for approximately 4 miles to the junction with CR 56, then following north along CR 56 for approximately 3 miles to the intersection with National Forest System Trail (FT) 307, then following east along FT 307 for approximately 2 miles to the non-Forest Service ownership boundary, then following north along the non-Forest Service ownership boundary for approximately 0.5 miles to the junction with FR 9406K, then following northwest along FR 9406K for approximately 0.5 miles to the intersection with FR 76, then following north and west along FR 76 approximately 0.5 miles to the non-Forest Service ownership boundary, then following north and west, then north again along the non-Forest Service ownership boundary for approximately 1 mile to the intersection with CR 56, then following north along CR 56 approximately 0.5 miles back to the point of beginning at the intersection of CR 56 “Senator Highway” and FR 52A.

Beginning Thursday, May 19 at 8:00 a.m., Stage 1 fire and smoking restrictions will be in effect on the North Kaibab Ranger District (aka “North Zone”) of the Kaibab National Forest.  

Under Stage 1 restrictions, fires, campfires, charcoal, coal, and wood stoves are prohibited, except within a developed recreation site. Smoking is also prohibited, except within an enclosed vehicle, building or a developed recreation site. Fireworks are always prohibited on all national forest and state lands.

Using a stove or grill that is solely fueled by pressurized liquid petroleum 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 stove or grill.

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 area receives significant, widespread precipitation.

Violations could result in mandatory appearance in a federal court, fines, or jail time.

The public is reminded to always be extra cautious when recreating on public lands, regardless of restrictions.

For information on all Arizona state and federal fire restrictions, including an interactive map, visit wildlandfire.az.gov/fire-restrictions.  Additional information about the stages of fire restrictions,  Forest Orders, and general forest conditions can be found at fs.usda.gov/kaibab.

The Wilson Fire, located above the Mogollon Rim 2.5 miles north of Sedona, is 100% contained at 1.8 acres.

Two engines remain on scene and though the fire is fully contained, crews will spend the day looking for and extinguishing hot spots near the containment lines--working toward full control.

A fire is considered "contained" when firefighters are confident the line around the perimenter of a fire will prevent the fire from spreading any further. The line is mostly constructed by firefighters using tools to dig down to unburnable mineral soil and can include other barriers, such as roads.

A fire is considered "controlled" when it has no chance of expanding in any way due to the line being strengthened to the point that flare-ups from within the perimeter of the fire cannot break through the line.

Crews will perform helicopter bucket drops throughout the day to work toward full control and eventually to the point of the fire being completely out.

The fire originated on a flat mesa located within the 2006 Brins Fire burn scar and was reported at 1:30 a.m. on Monday by a pilot flying over the area. It's cause remains under investigation.

On Tuesday, May 17, the Central West Zone Type 3 Incident Management Team will transfer command of the Crooks Fire back to the forest.  Fire objectives will remain the same, which include, providing for the safety of the public and fire resources, keeping the fire within its current footprint, and ensuring total suppression of the fire.  Due to minimal fire activity, this will be the last Crooks Fire update, unless significant changes occur.

Last week the Incident Base Camp was moved to Groom Creek Horse Camp, allowing the City of Prescott to re-open Watson Lake Recreation Area to the community on Friday, May 13, 2022.  “The Prescott National Forest and the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management want to thank the City of Prescott for their generosity and use of Watson Lake during the Crooks Fire,” Sarah Clawson, Bradshaw District Ranger and Russ Shumate, AZ Department of Forestry and Fire Management.

Firefighters are nearing completion of the suppression repair work, hazardous tree removal, and road mending.  Patrolling and securing the perimeter of the fire will continue for the next several weeks as interior fuels continue to burn and smolder.  As a reminder, residents within the Crooks Fire area need to utilize caution while driving on the roads as firefighters continue to work in and around the fire area.  Hazards still exist in and around the fire area and residents living nearby should utilize care as fire-weakened trees, ash pits, and burned stump holes remain.

FIRE RESTRICTIONS:  Fire restrictions are used to limit certain activities on public lands during periods of extreme fire risk. Fire restrictions have various levels called stages. Each stage limits specific activities and can vary from place to place, even those areas in close proximity. Know before you go on that trip to visit our national forests or public lands.  Check on current fire restrictions at:  WildlandFire.az.gov

WEATHER:  High pressure will persist across the region allowing light terrain-driven winds and daytime relative humidity values below 10% to continue.  Temperatures will be 10-15 degrees above normal through the week. 

FOREST CLOSURE: The Prescott National Forest has reduced the fire area emergency closure allowing for Upper Goldwater Lake to re-open to the public.  The closure provides public health and safety due to firefighting operations on the Crooks Fire. Prescott National Forest Fire Closure Order and Fire Closure Map

FIRE DETAILS:

Location:  11 nautical miles south of Prescott-Bradshaw Ranger District (T12N, R2W, SEC 1), near Mt Union.

Start Date:  April 18, 2022

Size:  Approximately 9,402 acres

Percent Contained:  96%

Cause:  Under Investigation.    

Vegetation:  Timber (Litter and Understory), Chaparral (6ft)

Number of Personnel Assigned:  104 

Crooks Fire Information:

• Phone: (928) 925-1111
• InciWeb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/8067/
• Prescott NF Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/prescott/
• Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/PrescottNF
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/PrescottNF
   

Resources are responding to a 1/10-acre fire, deemed the Wilson Fire, located 2.5 miles north of downtown Sedona (34°55'42.0"N 111°45'54.0"W) in the Wilson Tank area.

Air attack has arrived and an engine is on the way. A helicopter has been ordered as well.

The fire is minimally creeping and smoldering on a flat mesa in the Brins Fire (2006) burn scar. There is a low spread potential due to light southwest winds.

Smoke will be visible from the Sedona, Oak Creek and Munds Park areas. There are no closures at this time.

The fire was reported at 1:30 a.m. Monday by an aircraft flying overhead. Its cause is under investigation.

The Coconino National Forest has reduced the size of the closure area for the Tunnel Fire to allow for increased access and recreation in areas that access Lockett Meadow and the inner basin via Forest Road 552.

A Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) team has completed its assessment of the Tunnel Fire areas, and the Flagstaff Ranger District has determined it is safe to reduce the size of the closure in that area. Information about the BAER results can be found on the Tunnel Fire BAER Inciweb page, including the Soil Burn Severity Map.

At this time, the closure is set to remain in effect until June 20. However, the closure area may be reduced again in the future or may be completely rescinded before that date if conditions allow.

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality has issued an Ozone High Pollution Advisory in Maricopa County for Friday, May 13 through Sunday, May 15.

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 during HPAs.
• Off-road vehicle use should be avoided.

Take Action

• Drive as little as possible: carpool, use public transit, or telecommute. For information on transportation alternatives, visit Valley Metro: www.ShareTheRide.com 
• Fuel your vehicle after dark or during cooler evening hours.
• Reduce your time waiting in long drive-thru lines. For example, at coffee shops, fast-food restaurants, or banks. Park your vehicle and go inside.
• Use low-VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) or water-based paints, stains, finishes and paint strippers.
• Delay big painting projects until HPAs have passed.
• Make sure containers of household cleaners, garage and yard chemicals and other solvents are sealed properly 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.

Transportation Coordinators

Due to unhealthy levels of ozone, Maricopa County Air Quality Department requests all Transportation Coordinators 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.

Remind employees that they are encouraged to make more clean air. By taking small, simple steps every day, we can all make a difference. Additional tips on how to reduce air pollution can be found at www.CleanAirMakeMore.com.

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. Maricopa County employers enlisted in the Travel Reduction Program are asked to activate their HPA plans on high pollution advisory days.

 The Heber-Overgaard Brush Pit, located on the west side of State Route 277 at mile marker 307.9, caught fire at approximately 0830 on May 12th. The fire is a non-criminal, human-caused ignition from a vehicle exhaust pipe contacting dry, 1-hour fuels. The fire quickly spread to the materials in the pit. The fire area is contained by roads, Fire staff and resources are on-scene. Active suppressions methods are being utilized and success is controlling the fire is expected. The brush pit will remain closed until Fire personal deem it safe to re-open. Smoke is expected to be visible for the next several days.

The public is encouraged to check for dragging trailer chains, avoid pulling off into grassy areas, watch for sparks, and follow fire restrictions.

Stage 1 Fire Restrictions prohibit the following actions:

• Igniting, building, maintaining, or using a fire, including charcoal and briquettes, outside a fire structure that is provided by the Forest Service within a Designated Area (Designated Areas are listed in Exhibit B). 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 all flammable material. 36 C.F.R. § 261.52(d).

Information on air quality can be found on Arizona Department of Environmental Quality’s webpage: https://azdeq.gov/.

The public can obtain additional information by calling the Black Mesa Ranger District at (928) 535-7300. Stay up to date on news from the A - S at our website https://www.fs.usda.gov/asnf, on Twitter @A_SNFs and on facebook.com/apachesitgreavesnfs.

The break in the Red Flag conditions have allowed firefighters to continue to build, improve, and
strengthen containment lines around the San Rafael Fire. While some heat remains at the head of the fire, the lull in high winds has significantly helped resources establish additional containment and prevent further spread to the north and northeast. Yesterday, crews were able to get line in on the western, eastern, and southern flanks of the fire.

Today work continues to tie in any unsecured line and begin mopping up. Firefighters are also tasked with patrolling the fire line to check for any interior smokes or hotspots that remain. An estimated 165 ground personnel remain assigned with aircraft on standby, if needed. Some resources on San Rafael have been reassigned to provide for initial attack should a new incident start nearby. With the increase in containment efforts overnight, the Southeast Zone Incident Management Team will transition the fire back to the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management and the Coronado National Forest at 6:00 am Friday.

Forest Road 799 and the Arizona Trail from Patagonia Lake to Harshaw Road remain closed for public and firefighter safety. All residential areas have returned to READY status per the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office. The San Rafael Fire started on Saturday, May 7, 2022, and pushed nearly 12 miles to the northeast the following day due to high winds and a dry grass crop. A corral at San Rafael State Natural Area was damaged during the start of the fire. The fire remains under
investigation.

This will be the final news release for the incident unless significant activity occurs. Information will stay updated on Inciweb and both DFFM and the Coronado National Forest’s social media platforms.

Fire Details:
Start date – Saturday, May 7, 2022
Size – 11,620 acres
Containment – 62%
Location – 22 miles SE of Patagonia
Cause- Under Investigation

Information Resources:
Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/8100/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/azstateforestry
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arizonastateforestry

Today crews get some relief from the critical fire weather as Red Flag conditions dissipate over the fire area. Yet, even with yesterday’s Red Flag Warning, the fire did not see much additional growth. Firefighters were able to keep it within its current footprint and keep the fire from pushing through established containment lines. Today fire objectives include, constructing containment lines along the southern and western sides of the fire and mopping up along the eastern edge where containment lines have already been put in. The fire is 11,611 acres and is 12% contained.

The fire remains active on the northern and southwestern sides, with hot spots, smoldering and creeping being reported within the fire’s interior. Pockets of interior fuel continue to burn, therefore as afternoon winds increase, smoke may be visible to nearby communities. A helicopter remains assigned to the fire to assist with bucket work to suppress any hot spots. There is no critical fire weather forecast for the fire area today, but afternoon winds could gust up to 30 miles per hour. Nearly 200 personnel are assigned to the fire, including hand crews, engines, water tenders, and aircraft resources.

Per the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office, all GO and SET notifications have been lifted as of Tuesday morning and
residents have been placed back to READY, with the exception of the Canelo South-area which remains in SET. Forest
Road 799 is closed for firefighter safety as crews continue to work along that roadway. Crews are also finding people in the burn area and for safety reasons, people are asked to stay out as hazards, such as ash pits, exist. As with any wildfire
incident, conditions are constantly changing and it is essential people be prepared and stay aware. Residents should sign up for emergency notifications through their county’s emergency management website and put together a ‘go bag’. A go bag consists of important documents or papers, prescriptions, photos, money, snacks and water that one can grab quickly during the evacuation process. The San Rafael Fire started on Saturday, May 7, 2022, and pushed nearly 12 miles to the northeast the following day due to high winds and a dry grass crop. The fire remains under investigation.

Fire Details:
Start date – Saturday, May 7, 2022
Size – 11,611 acres
Containment – 12%
Location – 22 miles SE of Patagonia
Cause- Under Investigation

Information Resources:
Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/8100/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/azstateforestry
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arizonastateforestry

Crews took advantage of the decreased fire activity overnight and conducted fire handline construction ahead of the fire as a way to help slow the fire’s forward progress. This is a tactic used to reduce fuel in an area to potentially limit fire spread and growth. However, another round of Red Flag conditions Monday may hinder daytime fire suppression efforts as high winds, low relative humidity, and a dry fuel bed can create fast fire spread and erratic fire behavior, and likely unsafe fire conditions for direct suppression efforts. Predicted winds out of the southwest again can push the fire further to the north and northeast.

Additional resources arrived on the fire Monday morning, include hand crews and engines. Nearly 120 personnel are
assigned to the fire. Aircraft, including Large Air Tankers (LATs), Very Large Air Tankers (VLATs), and helicopters are also
assigned, but high winds may limit the ability to use aircraft efficiently.

On Sunday, the wind-driven fire pushed to the northeast twelve miles through a very dry grass crop. The fire was mapped Monday morning at 10,562 acres with no containment. The Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office reports SET for residents northeast of State Route 83 and Forest Road 799. The area south of State Route 83, in the area of Canelo Pass Road and Forest Road 799, remains in GO. Approximately 80 people have been evacuated due to the fire. Trigger points are used by fire management to determine when to notify residents of a possible evacuation based on current and expected fire behavior. But as with any wildfire incident, conditions can change quickly and residents are urged to stay alert and be mindful of their surroundings. The Red Cross has set up a shelter for evacuees at the United Methodist Community Church, 387 McKeown Avenue, in Patagonia. Currently, State Route 83 is open, but road conditions can also change at any given time.

Drivers are urged to check 5-1-1. On Saturday, May 7, 2022, around 6:30 pm, the Department of Forestry and Fire Management, along with federal and local cooperators responded to the San Rafael Fire, approximately 22 miles
southeast of Patagonia, in the San Rafael State Natural Area. The fire is under investigation.

Fire Details:
Start date – Saturday, May 7, 2022
Size – 10,562 acres
Containment – 0%
Location – 22 miles SE of Patagonia
Cause- Under Investigation

Information Resources:
Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/8100/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/azstateforestry
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arizonastateforestry