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Firefighters have made progress strengthening and improving the northwest edge of the Crooks Fire, preventing growth during critical fire weather.  Crews and heavy equipment will continue to patrol the fire, mop up remaining hot spots near control lines, repair and rehabilitate areas where suppression actions were taken, and clear hazardous snags and debris along roadways in and around the fire area.  Light smoke may be visible at times, as interior fuels continue to burn and smolder. 

Over the next few days, the Incident Management Team will begin to release resources. This process is known as right-sizing the organization.  Crews will be released from the fire as objectives are met and made available to assist with other wildfires in the southwest. Remaining resources will patrol and hold the fire perimeter to ensure the fire remains within the planning area.  As resources are released, the CWZ Type 3 team will begin moving the Incident Base Camp out of Watson Lake and over to Groom Creek Horse Camp on the Bradshaw Ranger District.  This move could start on Tuesday, May 10 and continue through Thursday May 12, allowing the City of Prescott to re-open Watson Lake. 

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. The Prescott National Forest has issued a new reduced closure order which reduces the size and continues to provide for public and firefighter safety. 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 next Crooks Fire update will be on Monday, May 16, 2022.

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:  Sunny, dry and breezy conditions are expected to continue through midweek.  A weather system will rapidly increase south-southwest winds on Wednesday before winds shift to northwest Wednesday evening.  Drier and less windy conditions will return later this week. 

FOREST CLOSURE: The Prescott National Forest has reduced the fire area emergency closure allowing for Upper Goldwater Lake and portions of the Circle Trail 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

Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is in place: Wildfires are a NO Drone Zone. Flying recreational and media drones within a TFR is illegal and impedes fire suppression efforts. Report drones to local law enforcement. If you Fly, We Can’t.

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:  217  

Due to Red Flag conditions, including wind gusts up to 45 miles per hour, the San Rafael Fire is being reported at 10,000 acres. The wind-driven fire continues to push to the northeast across a heavy grass crop and is burning actively on the northeast side. Multiple hand crews and engines are currently engaged in fire suppression efforts. Aircraft, to include, Single Engine Air Tankers (SEATs), Very Large Air Tankers (VLATs), a Large Air Tanker (LAT), and helicopters are also assigned to the fire.

At noon today, the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management transitioned the fire to the Southeast Zone Type 3 Incident Management Team.

The Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office reports evacuations, or GO, for the San Rafael Valley and residences on Canelo Pass Road and Canelo Road. As with any wildfire incident, residents are urged to be on alert and be aware of their surroundings. Due to constantly changing conditions, more evacuations may be necessary. DFFM is working closely with the Sheriff’s Office on the need for evacuations or pre evacuations.

The Arizona Department of Transportation has also closed State Route 83 northbound at the Cochise-Santa Cruz County line at milepost 10. For updated traffic information, dial 5-1-1.A Red Flag Warning was issued for the fire area through Sunday evening for high winds, low relative humidity, and very high to extreme fire behavior. The dry fuel bed coupled with those conditions are challenging firefighters and making suppression efforts difficult.

On Saturday, May 7, 2022, around 6:30 pm, DFFM 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. One secondary structure has been confirmed destroyed. The fire is under investigation at this time.

Fire Details 

• Start date – Saturday, May 7, 2022
• Size – 10,000 acres
• Containment – 0%
• Location – 22 miles SE of Patagonia
• Cause- Under Investigation

More information

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

The emergency closure area for the Crooks Fire has been reduced allowing for the opening of Upper Goldwater Lake and additional trails north of County Road 101, including portions of the Circle Trail and School House Gulch.  Trails in Groom Creek and Spruce Mountain remain closed for public safety.  All roads, trails and recreation sites including Upper and Lower Wolf Creek Campgrounds and Palace Station remain closed within the closure area. 

Despite weather conditions yesterday, crews were successful keeping fire inside of exiting contained edges on the northern and eastern sides of the fire.    Firefighters continue working to increase the depth of mop up operations along the fire’s uncontained northwest edge, working towards the interior to extinguish remaining pockets of heat.  Suppression repair work and chipping is near completion along Forest Service Road 97B and in the community of Potato Patch.  We would like to remind residents driving in the area to utilize caution as fire traffic and personnel are still working in the communities of Potato Path, Walker, Lookout Mountain and Spruce Mountain.

Red Flag warnings continue today for Prescott.  Crews will continue to stay vigilant during critical fire weather days and be prepared to assist in any initial attack efforts in the Prescott Basin if needed.   Mount Union Lookout has been staffed to help monitor the fire area and notify fire personnel of any possible flair-ups that could cause concern along the fires edge; and monitor the southern portion of the Bradshaw Ranger District for any fire activity or smoke.  

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: Red Flag conditions will continue today due to very dry conditions and strong southwest winds.  Winds with gusts of 40-45 mph are possible mid-afternoon.  

FOREST CLOSURE: The Prescott National Forest has implemented a reduce fire area emergency closure on May 7, 2022, to provide public health and safety due to firefighting operations and fire danger associated with the uncontrolled Crooks Fire. Prescott National Forest Fire Closure Order and Fire Closure Map

A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is in place: Wildfires are a NO Drone Zone. Flying recreational and media drones within a TFR is illegal and impedes fire suppression efforts. Report drones to local law enforcement. If You Fly, We Can’t.

Infrared Fligh Map Showing Scatterd Heat on the Crooks Fire

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:  276

Critical fire weather entering the state may challenge firefighters over the next few days as conditions align for extreme fire danger. The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for most of Arizona through Sunday night due to strong southwest winds and low relative humidity which can potentially intensify fire behavior and increase fire activity. Fuels remain critically dry and receptive to fire. Crews have been staged ahead of the incoming weather to provide for initial attack on new starts and to patrol the fire lines for any possible holding concerns.

On Friday, aircraft flew the fire and picked up some heat within its perimeter on the northwest side. The heavy timber component on that side is contributing to increased fire behavior and heat. Crews are inserted along that edge to suppress it and tie in remaining, uncontained line. Aircraft will continue to monitor the northwest side and provide bucket work, if needed. On the northern and eastern sides of the fire, containment lines remain stable and no interior heat is being reported. Firefighters continue conducting repair work in the Mount Union area and removing protective foil wrap used on the historic cabin in Palace Station. Repair work also continues in the community of Potato Patch. Heavy equipment, including masticators and chippers are being used as part of the rehabilitation work within communities and along the roadways. And as a reminder, residents and visitors driving in the area need to utilize caution.

Today, a Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) Team begins their assessment of the Crooks Fire burn area. The team will conduct evaluations of the area to identify concerns and hazards on National Forest Service (NFS) lands, including post-fire flooding, watershed conditions, and potential impacts to critical and cultural resources nearby.

FIRE RESTRICTIONS: WildlandFire.az.gov

WEATHER: Red Flag conditions Saturday through Sunday due to very dry conditions and strong southwest winds. The strongest winds on Saturday will gust 30-40 mph. Winds will be strongest on Sunday with gusts up to 50 mph. 

FOREST CLOSURE: The Prescott National Forest has implemented a fire area emergency closure to provide public health and safety due to firefighting operations and fire danger associated with the uncontrolled Crooks Fire. Prescott National Forest Fire Closure Order – Fire Closure Map

A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is in place: Wildfires are a NO Drone Zone. Flying recreational and media drones within a TFR is illegal and impedes fire suppression efforts. Report drones to local law enforcement. If You Fly, We Can’t.

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:  272

Fire suppression and repair work continues on the fire as crews build contingency line in the Spruce Mountain-area. The contingency line acts as a secondary fire line and helps slow potential fire spread. It also provides for community safety due to the potential for increasing terrain driven winds pushing the remaining unsecured edge to the north and northeast. On Thursday, crews also picked up a flare up on the northwest side of the fire with the help of aircraft providing bucket work. Firefighters continue to patrol and monitor the perimeter of the fire checking for interior smokes and hot spots. As work continues, residents and visitors need to be aware of heavy equipment and firefighting resources traveling in and out of the area.

As a reminder, the Prescott National Forest has implemented a fire area emergency closure which ultimately provides for both public and firefighter safety. However, law enforcement and firefighters continue to find people hiking and off-roading within the closure area. While the fire remains 96% contained and fire activity has significantly decreased, hazards exist in and around the fire’s perimeter. Ash pits, stump holes, and downed trees can often go unnoticed by the public and create additional safety risks. The Upper and Lower Wolf Creek Campgrounds, Groom Creek Horse Camp, Ranch Trail #62, and Goldwater Lake remain closed. Watson Lake also remains closed as it continues to serve as base camp for fire crews and overhead.

Another round of critical fire weather is forecast for the fire area for the next few days. Warm temperatures, increased southwest winds and low humidity levels play a role in fire activity and behavior. Firefighters remain vigilant ahead of the critical fire weather and have crews staged to provide for initial attack should a new start occur. Also, Stage 1 fire restrictions are in place on both the Prescott National Forest and State Trust Lands within Yavapai County. Detailed fire restriction information can be found at: WildlandFire.az.gov

WEATHER: Ridgetop winds will increase after the inversion breaks between 9:30-10:00 a.m. with afternoon gusts increasing to 25-30 mph after noon. Poor humidity recoveries are expected again tonight. Red Flag conditions are likely Saturday and potentially into early next week due to very dry conditions and strong southwest winds

FOREST CLOSURE: The Prescott National Forest has implemented a fire area emergency closure to provide public health and safety due to firefighting operations and fire danger associated with the uncontrolled Crooks Fire. Prescott National Forest Fire Closure Order – Fire Closure Map

A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is in place: Wildfires are a NO Drone Zone. Flying recreational and media drones within a TFR is illegal and impedes fire suppression efforts. Report drones to local law enforcement. If You Fly, We Can’t.

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:  300

Today, the California Interagency Incident Management Team 4 (CIIMT) transferred command of the fire to Incident Commander Ryan Barela’s Central West Zone Type 3 Team. Barela’s team shadowed the CIIMT4 on Wednesday to ensure a smooth transition for management of the fire. Fire objectives 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.

Firefighters remain actively engaged working to button up some uncontained line on the northwest edge of the fire. Crews are also patrolling for interior smokes and monitoring containment lines. Pockets of interior fuel continue to burn west of Lookout Mountain, therefore smoke may be visible to nearby communities. Additionally, crews are backhauling equipment off the line and providing rehabilitation work to mitigate hazards associated with suppression tactics.

As of 8 a.m. today, 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

WEATHER: Expect a round of very dry and sunny conditions. Afternoon humidity will dip below 15%. Ridgetop winds will increase after the inversion breaks at 11:00 a.m., with afternoon gusts above 20 mph. Poor humidity recoveries are expected tonight. Very dry conditions will continue on Friday, along with an increase in southwest winds. On Saturday, a round of near critical fire weather conditions is possible due to a combination of very dry and windy weather.

EVACUATIONS: Residents should continue to monitor the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Department Facebook page for current information. https://www.facebook.com/YavapaiCountySheriff/

FOREST CLOSURE:  The Prescott National Forest has reduced the Crooks Fire Area Emergency Closure.  Several recreation sites and trails remain closed.  To view the closure and map visit: Prescott National Forest Fire Closure Order – Fire Closure Map

A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is in place: Wildfires are a NO Drone Zone. Flying recreational and media drones within a TFR is illegal and impedes fire suppression efforts. Report drones to local law enforcement. If You Fly, We Can’t!

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: 500

Beginning at 8 a.m., today, Thursday, May 5, 2022 Stage 1 Fire and Smoking Restrictions will be in effect on the entire Prescott National Forest. 

The City of Prescott and Yavapai County will enter State 1 fire restrictions at the same time.  Please visit their websites at www.cazfire.org or http://www.prescott-az.gov/services/fire/ for further information.

Stage 1 fire restrictions prohibit the following:

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.
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.
Discharging a firearm, except while engaged in a lawful hunt pursuant to state, federal, or tribal laws and regulations.
 
Using a device 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 device.

Fire restrictions are implemented to help prevent human-caused fires and to limit the exposure of visitors during periods of 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.

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. 

To view Forest Order 03-09-00-22-03: Prescott National Forest Emergency Stage 1 Fire Restrictions, visit  Alerts & Notices.

For fire restriction 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 following is a comprehensive list of the DESIGNATED AREAS, as referenced in Prohibition #1.  Igniting, building, maintaining, or using a fire, including charcoal and briquettes, is only allowed within a fire structure (metal fire rings and/or metal pedestal grills) provided by the Forest Service at the following developed recreation areas:

Bradshaw Ranger District (928) 443-8000

Alto Pit OHV Campground and Day-Use
Lynx Campground
Yavapai Campground
Lynx Creek Ruin Day - Use
Cayuse Equestrian TH Day - Use
Lynx Lake North Shore Day - Use
Wekuvde Day - Use
Lynx Lake South Shore Day - Use
Groom Creek Horse Campground
White Spar Campground
Hilltop Campground
Thumb Butte Day - Use + Group Ramada
Ranch Trailhead #62
Hazlett Hollow Campground
Eagle Ridge Campground
Horsethief Cabin
Lower Wolf Creek Campground
Turney Gulch Group Campground
Upper Wolf Creek Campground

Verde Ranger District (928) 567-4121

Mingus Mountain Campground
Beasley Flat Day-Use
Mingus Tent Sites
Black Canyon Day - Use
Mingus Group Site
Copper Canyon Trailhead
Mingus Vista Day - Use
Summit Day - Use
Mingus Picnic Day - Use
Playground Group Campground
Sycamore Cabin Rental
Potato Patch Campground
Hayfield Draw OHV Day - Use
White Bridge Day - Use
AZHPA Campground

Chino Valley Ranger District

N/A

The Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests are planning to enter Stage 1 Fire Restrictions effective May 5, 2022, at 8:00 a.m. due to increasing fire activity and dry conditions. The increased fire danger is due to insufficient moisture and dry fuel conditions across the forest.

Fire officials use several criteria to determine when to modify fire restrictions, including current and predicted weather, fuel moistures, fire activity, and available firefighting resources. These restrictions reduce the risk of unwanted human-caused wildfires during periods of high fire danger and elevated fire weather conditions. Fireworks and other pyrotechnic devices are ALWAYS prohibited on National Forests.

Stage I fire restrictions prohibit the following:

1. 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. 36 C.F.R. § 261.52(a).

2. 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).

3. Discharging a firearm, except while engaged in a lawful hunt pursuant to state, federal, or tribal laws and regulations. 36 C.F.R. § 261.58(m).

Exemptions to the restrictions include the following:

1. Pursuant to 36 C.F.R. §261.50(e), the following persons are exempt from the provisions in this Order:

2. Holders of Forest Service Special Use Authorizations are exempt from Prohibition #1 above, provided such fires are within a fire structure and they are within their permitted area. ### USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.

3. Persons engaged in legal hunting activity are allowed to discharge a firearm while taking wildlife

4. Persons using a stove or grill that is solely fueled by liquid petroleum or liquid petroleum gas (LPG) fuels.

5. Persons using a stove fire in a designated area.

6. Any Federal, State, or local officer, or member of an organized rescue or firefighting force in the performance of official duty.

Violators of the above restrictions are subject to fines and/or imprisonment.
Order Number: 03-01-22-07

Learn more by watching our education video and by visiting the Fire Restrictions and Alerts & Notices pages on our website.

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

Crews increased containment overnight and continue to concentrate efforts on the northwestern edge of the fire to ensure it stays within its footprint and containment lines hold during wind events. On Tuesday, a flight over the fire’s perimeter showed minimal smokes within the interior with no threat to containment lines. Over the course of the next few days, crews will continue patrolling line, mopping up, and backhauling equipment out of the Lookout Mountain area to prepare for residents’ reentry. 

Per the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office, as of 9:00 a.m. today, all GO statuses will be lifted, but Lookout Mountain will be placed in a SET status. 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. The Prescott National Forest has issued a new closure order which reduces the size and continues to provide for public and firefighter safety. 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.

As containment increases and fire activity slows significantly, fire resources are being released to rest and prepare for the next incident. On Thursday, May 5, the California Interagency Incident Management Team 4 (CIIMT4) will transition the fire to the local, Central West Zone Type 3 Team. “The Prescott National Forest and the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management want to thank CIIMT 4 for their hard work and expertise which provided for safe and timely fire suppression efforts and ultimately the protection of the Yavapai County communities and our National Forest lands.” Sarah Clawson, Bradshaw District Ranger.

WEATHER: Expect a round of very dry and sunny conditions. Afternoon humidity will dip below 15%. Twenty-foot winds will generally be light, but ridgetop wind gusts above 20 mph will be possible in the afternoon. Poor humidity recoveries and a wind switch to the north after 8:00 p.m. is forecast for tonight.

SMOKE INFORMATION: Residents can monitor current conditions for the Crooks Fire, via Arizona Smoke Forecasting system located at https://azdeq.gov/wildfireforecast?fire=crooksfire

EVACUATIONS: Residents should continue to monitor the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Department Facebook page for current information. https://www.facebook.com/YavapaiCountySheriff/

FOREST CLOSURE:  The Prescott National Forest has reduced the Crooks Fire Area Emergency Closure.  Several recreation sites and trails remain closed.  To view the closure and map visit: Prescott National Forest Fire Closure Order – https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd1018352.pdf

Fire Closure Map -- https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd1018351.pdf

A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is in place: Wildfires are a NO Drone Zone. Flying recreational and media drones within a TFR is illegal and impedes fire suppression efforts. Report drones to local law enforcement. If You Fly, We Can’t!

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 9402 acres, 89% Containment                
Cause: Under Investigation
Vegetation: Timber (Litter and Understory), Chaparral (6 feet)         
Number of Personnel Assigned: 612

Fire Information: 928-925-1111 
Hours: 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Forest Service Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) specialists recently completed their field data evaluation to produce the Soil Burn Severity (SBS) map for the approximately 19,075-acre Tunnel Fire.

The map and the data delineate unburned, low, moderate and high SBS categories. The BAER team assessing the Tunnel Fire determined that approximately 4,774 acres (24%) of the fire is unburned, approximately 12,285 acres (67%) have low SBS, approximately 1,421 acres (8%) sustained a moderate SBS and only approximately 11 acres (<1%) were identified as having high soil burn severity.

The SBS map product is an estimate of fire effects to soils, not fire effects to vegetation. SBS characterizes fire effects to the soil surface and below ground. Fire effects to vegetation would include an estimate of vegetation mortality which does not always correlate with degree of soil burn severity.

Moderate and high soil burn severity can alter or damage physical, chemical, and biological soil properties resulting in increased runoff, erosion, and negative effects to soil productivity. These soil properties include but are not limited to hydrophobicity (water repellency), soil organic matter content, soil pore space, soil cover (effective litter), and soil structure (including grade (degree of aggregation) and type (physical form).

Changes to these soil properties determine the degree of soil burn severity. Water repellency often occurs naturally in soils and it changes as a function of fire. It is frequently discussed as a post-fire effect. Fire can increase the strength and thickness—or depth—of water repellent layers in soil, considerably affecting post-fire water runoff and possibly extending time for recovery of the burned area.

The Tunnel BAER assessment team used remote sensing imagery with field-validated soils data to produce the final SBS map. The BAER team will use the SBS map as an analysis tool to estimate post-fire erosion with subsequent sediment delivery, stream flows and debris flow probabilities. The map is also being shared with cooperating agencies.

The Tunnel Fire soil burn severity map can be downloaded at the “Tunnel Fire BAER” InciWeb site (https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/8088/) as a JPEG or PDF version under the “Maps” tab.

As a reminder, The Coconino National Forest has instituted a Forest Closure Order for the area affected by the Tunnel Fire.

The Antelope Fire grew to approximately 372 acres yesterday as wind spread it across a grassy landscape located 12 miles north of Sunset Crater near milepost 442 on the east side of U.S. Highway 89.

No structures were threatened at any time. Crews have contained the fire and are conducting mop-up operations that include checking for and extinguishing hotspots while patrolling the perimeter. Some smoldering may put up wisps of smoke but will only be noticeable to motorists passing by the area.

The fire was reported at 1:09 p.m. yesterday and its cause is under investigation.

Motorists should take care to do everything they can to keep sources of heat from leaving their vehicle or trailer.

Fires can easily start by motorists who flick their cigarettes outside the vehicle, drag chains attached to trailers, have faulty catalytic converters that spread bits of hot embers, and even from tires that pop and cause rims to strike the pavement.

Due to the hard work of the firefighters and after the red flag warning tested the fire line, evacuations were lifted in all areas except Lookout Mountain on Monday, May 2, 2022. The fire has not grown, and containment increased to 83%. Friendly reminder to all returning residents to please drive carefully, as there is still fire personnel and heavy equipment working in the fire area and on the roads. For the latest on re-population, please refer to the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Facebook page. 

Throughout the Crooks Fire, helicopters have dropped over 1.2 million gallons of water fighting the Crooks Fire. Heavy equipment, hoses and supplies are being hauled off the mountain. Firefighters have made great progress, but the fire risk is not gone. Firefighters will be monitoring the Crooks Fire every day until containment reaches 100%. People living in the wildland-urban interface are encouraged to thin vegetation for defensible space around homes. YavapaiFirewise.org is a good resource for help.

WEATHER: A passing, dry low-pressure system will bring a round of windy conditions to the fire today. Southwest wind gusts above 30 mph are possible during the afternoon. Minimum humidity will be near 20%.

SMOKE INFORMATION: Residents can monitor current conditions for the Crooks Fire, via Arizona Smoke Forecasting system located at https://azdeq.gov/wildfireforecast?fire=crooksfire

EVACUATIONS: Some areas remain in both the “READY”, “SET”, and “GO” status. Residents should continue to monitor the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Department Facebook page for additional information. https://www.facebook.com/YavapaiCountySheriff/

FOREST CLOSURE: To provide public health and safety due to firefighting operations and fire danger associated with the uncontrolled Crooks Fire the Prescott National Forest has expanded the fire area emergency closure to the south. To view the Crooks Fire area closure order and map visit: Prescott National Forest - Alerts & Notices (usda.gov)

A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is in place: Wildfires are a NO Drone Zone. Flying recreational and media drones within a TFR is illegal and impedes fire suppression efforts. Report drones to local law enforcement. If You Fly, We Can’t! 

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 9402 acres, 83% Containment                           
• Cause: Under Investigation
• Vegetation: Timber (Litter and Understory), Chaparral (6 feet)                 
• Number of Personnel Assigned: 798

Coconino National Forest resources are responding to the two-acre Antelope Fire, located eight miles north of Sunset Crater near Highway 89 (GPS coordinates 35°28'54.0"N 111°33'21.0"W).

The wind-driven fire is spreading at a moderate rate through grass-type fuels.

Resources at the scene include one Type 2 hand crew, four engines, one dozer, one water tender and miscellaneous overhead. An air attack resource has been ordered.

The fire was reported at 1:09 p.m. and its cause is under investigation.

No structures are threatened at this time but smoke impact may be noticed along Highway 89 and in the Doney Park area.

Effective Thursday, May 5 the following agencies will implement campfire and smoking restrictions:  

• Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Phoenix and Colorado River Districts;  
• Coconino, Kaibab [Williams and Tusayan Ranger Districts], Prescott, Tonto, and Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests; 
• Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management as it relates to state trust lands in Coconino County south of the Grand Canyon, Mohave, La Paz, Yavapai, Yuma, Maricopa, Gila, Graham, Greenlee, Apache, and Navajo counties.  

Beginning May 5, 2022, and until rescinded, the following are prohibited: 

• Building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire, campfire, charcoal, coal, or wood stove fire, except within a developed recreation site, or improved site. 
• Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building. Smoking is prohibited in all federal buildings.  

In addition, the BLM Phoenix and Colorado River Districts, Prescott and Tonto National Forests will implement the following restriction, which temporarily prohibits recreational target shooting: 

• Discharging a firearm, air rifle or gas gun, except while engaged in a lawful hunt pursuant to state, federal, or tribal law, and regulations. 

Fireworks and exploding targets are never allowed on federal and state trust lands. Recreational target shooting is prohibited year-round on state trust lands.  

Pressurized liquid or gas stoves, lanterns and heaters possessing shut-off devices are allowed. When using a portable stove, make sure the area is clear of grasses and other fine fuels. Prevent stoves from tipping and starting a fire. 

Residents and visitors should check with respective county and municipal governments for information on fire restrictions in those jurisdictions. 

National Park Service and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service units across Arizona maintain similar fire restrictions as those being implemented, year-round. Variations are possible, and visitors should check with the unit’s visitor center for area-specific restrictions and regulations. 

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

To prevent wildfires, never throw cigarettes out of a vehicle window. Use an ashtray instead. Never park a vehicle over dry grass as the catalytic converter can ignite the vegetation. Make sure your vehicle is in good operating condition, tires are well inflated, and check for any dragging metal or chains from towed trailers. 

Fire conditions as well as localized closures and restrictions are subject to change. Tribal, federal, state, and local mandates are different, they may have some differences in their restriction notices. For a more detailed explanation concerning agency restrictions and fire information in general, please contact the nearest land management agency office where you plan to work or play or visit http://wildlandfire.az.gov 

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A Forest Service Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) team began surveying the fire-affected areas within the Tunnel Fire perimeter this past Saturday.

BAER team assessments are rapid evaluations of post-fire conditions of the burned landscape. These assessments determine the level of risk from potential flooding and debris flow, and calculate how these risks will affect both human safety and the natural and cultural resources in the area.
 
The Tunnel Fire BAER team, led by Forest Service Hydrologist Brendan Waterman, will conduct field surveys, and use science-based models to rapidly evaluate and assess the burned area.

BAER is an emergency program for stabilization work. These time-critical activities aim to conclude before the first damaging storm.
 
BAER teams typically consist of scientists and specialists including hydrologists, geologists, soil scientists, road engineers, botanists, wildlife and fisheries biologists, archaeologists, recreation and trails specialists, and geographic information specialists, from both federal and state agencies. BAER teams work together during the burned area surveys, field data analysis and modeling phase, to present findings along with recommended treatments to the forest supervisor.
 
BAER teams analyze the data collected during field surveys to produce a “soil burn severity” map. This is the first step in assessing potential watershed impacts from wildfires to values that may be at-risk from potential increased flooding, sedimentation, debris flows and rockslides.

BAER teams produce a report that includes a description of the assessment and findings for the burned area’s post-fire conditions along with recommended emergency stabilization measures and actions. BAER emergency stabilization efforts are focused on the protection of human life, safety and property, as well as critical cultural and natural resource values.

For more information, please visit the Tunnel Fire BAER InciWeb site at inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/8088/.

Red flag conditions tested containment lines Sunday on the fire with strong southwest winds and low relative humidity.  Blowing ash and dust were present with some interior pockets of fuels producing smoke.  The hard work of firefighters paid off as containment lines held during 44 mph wind gusts.  The fire area did not expand, and containment increased to 75%.  

On Sunday, crews continued to focus on structure protection and finished thinning of vegetation along Senator Highway. This was to provide a fire break which will help provide protection to communities for years to come. Heavy equipment is being used to repair road damage in preparation for re-population of evacuated neighborhoods, when conditions are safe, and the Sheriff approves.

But this fire is not out yet, and as baseball great Yogi Berra said, ‘it ain’t over til it’s over.’ The weather remains dry, and the forest is parched by drought. Firefighters will be patrolling, monitoring and mopping-up hot spots on the Crooks Fire on Monday and every day until containment reaches 100%. People living in the wildland-urban interface are encouraged to thin vegetation for defensible space around homes. YavapaiFirewise.org is a good resource for help.

WEATHER: Dry and breezy Monday with southwest winds 10-20 mph. Minimum humidity should be around 20%. Gusts near 30 mph are possible Tuesday as a low-pressure system passes through Central Arizona.

SMOKE INFORMATION: Residents can monitor current conditions for the Crooks Fire, via Arizona Smoke Forecasting system located at https://azdeq.gov/wildfireforecast?fire=crooksfire

EVACUATIONS: Several areas remain in both the “READY” and “SET” status. Residents should continue to monitor the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Department Facebook page for additional information. https://www.facebook.com/YavapaiCountySheriff/

FOREST CLOSURE: To provide public health and safety due to firefighting operations and fire danger associated with the uncontrolled Crooks Fire the Prescott National Forest has expanded the fire area emergency closure to the south. To view the Crooks Fire area closure order and map visit: Prescott National Forest - Alerts & Notices (usda.gov)

A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is in place: Wildfires are a NO Drone Zone. Flying recreational and media drones within a TFR is illegal and impedes fire suppression efforts. Report drones to local law enforcement. If You Fly, We Can’t! 

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 9402 acres, 75% Containment                            
• Cause: Under Investigation
• Vegetation: Timber (Litter and Understory), Chaparral (6 feet)                 
• Number of Personnel Assigned: 826

A Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) team is being established to begin a burned area assessment of the Crooks wildfire on the Bradshaw Ranger District. BAER assessments are rapid evaluations of the burned area to identify unacceptable risks on National Forest Service (NFS) lands from post-fire threats. The team’s focus is on the emergency actions necessary to protect life and safety, property and critical natural and cultural resources on NFS lands. The team is working in conjunction with the Yavapai County Flood Control District and shares burned area information from the assessment with other federal, state and local agencies with post-fire responsibilities on state and private lands both within and downstream of burned areas, including USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), National Weather Service (NWS), and US Geological Survey (USGS).

BAER teams consist of scientists and specialists including hydrologists, geologists, soil scientists, engineers, botanists, biologists, archaeologists, and geographic information specialists. The teams collect data during ground surveys and complete GIS and modeling to evaluate the post-fire risks. The first step in the BAER assessment process is taking satellite imagery and data collected during ground surveys to produce a soil burn severity map. The soil burn severity provides the baseline information to determine changed watershed conditions for assessing potential watershed impacts from wildfires, such as flooding and unstable soils. This information is then compiled to determine if post fire emergency conditions are present.  The order of emergency response strategies includes natural recovery, administrative closure, then land treatments if unacceptable risks are identified.

Everyone near and downstream from the Crooks Fire burned area should remain alert and stay updated on weather conditions that may result in heavy rains over the area. Flash flooding could occur quickly during heavy rain events.

REMINDER: The Crooks Fire Area Closure is still in effect on the Prescott National Forest. Detailed information and maps are available on InciWeb at https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/8067/.  For additional information related to the closure please call Crooks Fire Information at (928) 925-1111

Saturday was a success for firefighters on day 13 of the Crooks Fire. Smoke was minimal and the fire grew by only 9 acres. Crews from across Arizona and the nation working the fire made great progress protecting homes and holding the fire from moving north.  Firefighters on the day and night shifts focused on ‘firewise’ structure defense and preparing for Red Flag critical fire weather expected Sunday. Due to the hard work on the fire, hundreds of participants were able to join the Whiskey 50 bike race event that occurred across the Prescott National Forest.

Today’s critical weather will test the fire. Red Flag extreme fire conditions from 11am-7pm will bring gusty southwest winds and low humidity to challenge fire containment lines. Hot spots on the fire, stimulated by gusts, may become active and spread. The northwest side of the fire near Mt. Tritle, a priority, is heavily forested and full of dead and downed trees, stoking fire risks. Firefighters are on high alert, focused on safety. Slate Creek and Ash Creek Ridge above Crooks Creek are places of highest concern.

WEATHER: Today, strong southwest winds and low humidity will lead to a round of critical fire weather and a Red Flag Warning is in effect from 11:00am to 7:00pm MST. Expect southwest winds sustained around 20mph with gusts above 40mph near ridgetops and southwest aspects. Afternoon humidity could drop near 10%.

SMOKE INFORMATION:  Residents should be aware of increasing smoke conditions do to winds out of the south. Residents can monitor current conditions for the Crooks Fire, via Arizona Smoke Forecasting system located at https://azdeq.gov/wildfireforecast?fire=crooksfire

EVACUATIONS: Several areas remain in both the “READY” and “SET” status. Residents should continue to monitor the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Department Facebook page for additional information. https://www.facebook.com/YavapaiCountySheriff/

FOREST CLOSURE: To provide public health and safety due to firefighting operations and fire danger

associated with the uncontrolled Crooks Fire the Prescott National Forest has expanded the fire area emergency closure to the south. To view the Crooks Fire area closure order and map visit: Prescott National Forest - Alerts & Notices (usda.gov)

A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is in place: Wildfires are a NO Drone Zone. Flying recreational and media drones within a TFR is illegal and impedes fire suppression efforts. Report drones to local law enforcement. If You Fly, We Can’t! 

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 9402 acres, 38% Containment                        
• Cause: Under Investigation
• Vegetation: Timber (Litter and Understory), Chaparral (6 feet)                 
• Number of Personnel Assigned: 857

Despite the winds and dry conditions there has been little fire progression along the perimeter, there are still areas of concern where firefighters are still actively fighting. Currently the priority remains on preventing the fire moving north on the northwest perimeter and protecting structures near Mount Tritle. With the assistance of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) otherwise known as drones, firefighters have made significant progress in locating and extinguishing hot spots in and around the perimeter.

Like firefighters, drones are actively used for day and night operations.  Trained professionals, utilize this essential tool for fighting wildfires. These drones give firefighters a bird’s eye view of the terrain and can assist with determining where the fire moves next, allowing swift decisions can be made about where crews should go. It is illegal for the public deploy or utilize a personal Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) in a fire area to get a closer view of the fire. This can interfere with firefighting operations and place both pilots and firefighters lives in danger. During a wildfire incident a Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFR) around the fire and privately owned drones (UAS) can interfere with wildland fire air traffic, such as air tankers, helicopters, and other firefighting aircraft that are necessary to suppress wildland fires. Even the smallest drone (UAS) can cause a serious or fatal accident if it collides with firefighting aircraft and disrupts firefighting operations. 

Per the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations, 43 CFR 9212.1(f), it is illegal to resist or interfere with the efforts of firefighter(s) to extinguish a fire. Doing so can result in a significant fine and/or a mandatory court appearance. So, be smart and just don't fly your drone anywhere near a wildfire. No amount of video or photos are worth the consequences.

WEATHER: On Saturday, high pressure will bring a continuation of very dry conditions, but light southwest winds.

SMOKE INFORMATION:  Residents should be aware of increasing smoke conditions do to winds out of the south. Residents can monitor current conditions for the Crooks Fire, via Arizona Smoke Forecasting system located at https://azdeq.gov/wildfireforecast?fire=crooksfire

EVACUATIONS: Several areas remain in both the “READY” and ”SET” status. Residents should continue to monitor the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Department Facebook page for additional information. https://www.facebook.com/YavapaiCountySheriff/

FOREST CLOSURE: To provide public health and safety due to firefighting operations and fire danger

associated with the uncontrolled Crooks Fire the Prescott National Forest has expanded the fire area emergency closure to the south. To view the Crooks Fire area closure order and map visit: Prescott National Forest - Alerts & Notices (usda.gov)

A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is in place: Wildfires are a NO Drone Zone. Flying recreational and media drones within a TFR is illegal and impedes fire suppression efforts. Report drones to local law enforcement. If You Fly, We Can’t! 

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 9393 acres, 38% Containment                                         
• Cause: Under Investigation
• Vegetation: Timber (Litter and Understory), Chaparral (6 feet)                  
• Number of Personnel Assigned: 889

Beginning Thursday, May 5 at 8:00 a.m., Stage 1 fire and smoking restrictions will be in effect on the Williams and Tusayan Districts (aka “South Zone”) of the Kaibab National Forest and the entirety of the Coconino 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 device 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 device.

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 and fs.usda.gov/coconino.