2003 Fire
Danger
For Arizona,
& New Mexico.
Summer Reports.
Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest.
Tonto National Forest.
Coconino National Forest
We will update this page during fire season 2003.
Arizona - New Mexico Fire Reports may be viewed at
Southwest Area,
Wildland Fire Operation's
Fire Reports & Up-Dates 2003.
(7/14/3) Lightning Fire Reported Monday Morning in Prescott National Forest
(7/14/3) Prescott National Forest Officials Urge Caution
(7/14/3) Carson National Forest: New Fire in Tres Piedras Ranger District
(7/14/3) Carson National Forest: Cañon Heights Gains Fuel Break Due to Encebado Fire
(7/14/3) Coconino National Forest to Implement Dispersed Camping Restrictions
(7/13/3) New Large Fire on Ft. Apache Indian Reservation near Whiteriver, AZ
(7/13/3) Lightning Ignites 2 Fires in Prescott National Forest
(7/13/3) Gila National Forest Update
(7/12/3) Santa Fe Zone Partners Respond to Elevated Fire Danger
(7/11/3) Kaibab National (7/10/3) ARIZONA ASPEN FIRE is 84,000 acres and 75% contained. ASPEN is burning on Mt. Lemmon in Coronado National Forest about 20 miles north of Tucson. Higher humidity Monday slowed fire behavior over most of the fire, which mostly smoldered and creeped. By 6:00 p.m., residents of Ventana Resort in the Tucson foothills were allowed to return to their homes. Today's plans call for patrolling the fireline and mopping up in areas along Catalina Highway, including the summer home area, campgrounds and picnic grounds, and the electronic sites on Mt. Lemmon. Firefighters will build control lines in Montrose and Romero Canyons. Air tankers and helicopters will continue to focus on the southern and western flanks of the fire that are almost inaccessible on foot and will work to protect homes and other structures in the Tucson foothills. Arizona Governor Janet Napolitano visited Incident Command post and the helibase yesterday. Qwest and Trico are assessing damage to utilities on Mt. Lemmon. For more information, call Aspen Fire Information at (520)-749-6207/6208.
MAPLE is a lightning-caused fire which started July 5 and is burning in the Apache-Sitgreaves 25 air miles northeast of Clifton, AZ. This 120 acre fire is currently 5% contained with estimated containment for 7/18. Crews will burnout existing barriers today, while air tankers will work to reach containment objectives. Tompkin's Type 3 Management Team is in charge of the fire.
MAVERICK started July 5 by lightning and is burning 13 air miles east of Clifton in Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests. This 500-acre fire is 20% contained and crews hope to contain it by July 11. Fire behavior yesterday was very active. Today, crews will continue monitoring the fire and burning out from natural barriers. Oltesvig's Type 3 Team is in place.
POWELL FIRE USE is a lightning-caused fire burning on the Grand Canyon's North Rim about 35 miles south of Jacob Lake. The National Park Service is using a wildland fire use strategy to manage this 3,500-acre fire, which is about 15 air miles NW of the North Rim's developed area on Powell Plateau. Fire spread is minimal. No major change since July 5. North Bass, Powell Plateau, and Swamp Ridge Trails are temporarily closed. For more information, call the Park's Backcountry Information Center at (928)-638-7875.
INDEPENDENCE is a human-caused fire which started July 4. It is now 450 acres and 100% contained. The fire is 2 miles south of AVI Casino and 10 miels south of Laughlin, Nevada, on the California side. Crews plan to continue mopping up today. MORMON FIRE is located in Padre Canyon 20 miles southeast of Flagstaff, AZ, in Coconino National Forest. This 2,725-acre fire is being managed as a "confined" wildfire, which means a combination of direct and indirect actions, including the use of natural topographic features, fuels, and favorable weather. No major change since July 4. Coconino National Forest fire information
(7/8/3) NEW MEXICO ENCEBADO FIRE started July 4 from a lightning strike and is burning on Taos Pueblo at 2,500 acres. The fire showed very high to extreme fire behavior yesterday. Crews will continue building dozer line on the fire's south flank and will hold the line along Pueblo Creek Road on the north flank. ENCEBADO is expected to grow eastward. Taos Pueblo Canyon, Taos Canyon Campground, Taos Casino, and Taos Pueblo are closed. Larry Raley's New Mexico Type II Incident Management Team is managing the fire. For more information, call (505)-737-5612 or 758-6344.
(7/8/3) New Mexico National Forests Fire Restrictions.
(7/8/3) Carson National Forest Implements Stage II Fire Restrictions.
(7/8/3) Lincoln National Forest to Lift Restrictions July 10.
(7/8/3) Santa Fe National Forest: Molina Complex Fire Update.
(7/8/3) Remote Fires Burning in Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests.
(7/7/3) Prescott National Forest; Spruce Fire Evacuees Return Home.
(7/7/3) Coconino, Kaibab National Forests Implement Additional Fire Restrictions.
(7/7/3) ARIZONA ASPEN FIRE is 70,000 acres and 55% contained. ASPEN is burning on Mt. Lemmon in Coronado National Forest about 20 miles north of Tucson. Control problems on the fire's southeast edge led the fire to cross Catalina Highway and threaten Willow Canyon summer homes. Firefighters completed burnout operations yesterday to stop the fire's eastward march toward structures. Six summer homes were lost in the Willow Canyon subdivision as well as three outbuildings at a Girl Scout camp on Organization ridge. Fire crews today continue burning out around the summer homes and in the Molino Canyon area where they plan to tie in the southeast fireline with area to the east burned by Bullock Fire last year. A public meeting will be held tonight at 6:00 p.m. at Ventana Canyon Resort in Tucson. For more information, call Aspen Fire Information at (520)-749-6207/6208.
POWELL FIRE USE is a lightning-caused fire burning on the Grand Canyon's North Rim. The National Park Service is using a wildland fire use strategy to manage this 3,500-acre fire, which is about 15 air miles NW of the North Rim's developed area on Powell Plateau. Fire spread is minimal. North Bass, Powell Plateau, and Swamp Ridge Trails are temporarily closed. For more information, call the Park's Backcountry Information Center at (928)-638-7875.
INDEPENDENCE is human-caused, started July 4,, and is 350 acres. The fire is 2 miles south of AVI Casino and 10 miels south of Laughlin, Nevada, on the California side. Crews hope to contain it today.
MORMON FIRE is located in Padre Canyon 20 miles southeast of Flagstaff, AZ, in Coconino National Forest. This 2,725-acre fire is being managed as a "confined" wildfire, which means a combination of direct and indirect actions, including the use of natural topographic features, fuels, and favorable weather. Containment expected July 7.
JUNIPER FIRE USE is 350 acres and burning in Juniper Mesa Wilderness in Prescott National Forest. JUNIPER is being managed as a "fire use" fire to achieve resource benefits. The fire started June 6 by lightning and has been given an area of 7,000 acres to burn within. Fire behavior is low with minimal spread. JUNIPER has shown no major change since June 26. For more information, contact: Travis Haines, Prescott National Forest, at (928)-777-5655.
(7/7/3) NEW MEXICO ENCEBADO FIRE was reported on the Fourth of July after 4:00 p.m. The fire is 1,500 acres 4 miles south of Taos Pueblo. The fire showed extreme fire behavior yesterday. Taos Pueblo Canyon, Taos Canyon, Taos Casino, and Taos Pueblo are closed. Larry Raley's New Mexico Type II Incident Management Team is managing the fire. Crews today will work to establish a solid anchor point and working on flanking the fire with fireline on the fire's north and south sides. For more information, call Encebado Fire Information at (505)-737-5612.
(7/4/3) Suppression Begins on Wilderness Fires in Santa Fe National Forest.
(7/3/3) Fire Restrictions in Effect for All National Forests in Arizona, Closures for Some.
(7/3/3) Fire Restrictions in Effect for Four National Forests in New Mexico.
(7/4/3) ARIZONA ASPEN FIRE is 56,063 acres and 60% contained. ASPEN is burning on Mt. Lemmon in Coronado National Forest about 20 miles north of Tucson. Thursday saw increased fire behavior with active b urning, torching, and spotting. ASPEN has crossed the East Fork of Sabino Canyon and threatens Palisade Ranger Station, campgrounds and picnic areas, camps on Organizational Ridge, and a communications facility on Mt. Bigelow. The powerline near Cargadera Canyon is damaged and remains threatened. Forty homes have been evacuated along Tucson's front range because of helicopter bucket work in that area. Today, firefighters continue helicopter bucket work on the fire's southeast side and protection of structures in the path of the fire. Dan Oltrogge's Southwest Area Type I Incident Management Team has assumed control of the fire. For more information, call Aspen Fire Information at (520)-749-6207/6208.
POWELL FIRE USE is a lightning-caused fire burning on the Grand Canyon's North Rim. The National Park Service is using a wildland fire use strategy to manage this 3,3,50-acre fire, which is about 15 air miles NW of the North Rim's developed area on Powell Plateau. Wayne Cook's Fire Use Management Team has been assigned to the fire and transfers management back to the Park tonight. Fire behavior has decreased, while some spread occurred to the south top of the plateau. North Bass, Powell Plateau, and Swamp Ridge Trails are temporarily closed. For more information, call the Park's Backcountry Information Center at (928)-638-7875.
MORMON FIRE is located in Padre Canyon 20 miles southeast of Flagstaff, AZ, in Coconino National Forest. This 2,725-acre fire is being managed as a "confined" wildfire, which means a combination of direct and indirect actions, including the use of natural topographic features, fuels, and favorable weather. Containment expected July 7. No major change since June 26.
(7/4/3) NEW MEXICO JENNY FIRE is located in Gila National Forest about 17 miles west/southwest of Beaverhead. JENNY was started June 20 by lightning. The fire is located in rocky, steep terrain and is currently 6,520 acres and is currently 95% contained. Fire behavior is low as JENNY smolders and creeps. Firefighters are rehabilitating identified areas and patrolling all completed fireline. Continental Divide Trail remains closed in preparation for burnout operations. For more information, call (505)-894-6677.
DRY LAKE FIRE USE COMPLEX includes 4 lightning-caused fires burning in Gila National Forest about 27 miles northwest of Silver City--DRY LAKE, SYCAMORE, GRANNY and MOONSHINE FIRES. Overall, the fire has burned 48,500 acres and has been given an area of 216,000 acres in which to burn. These fires are being allowed to burn within certain parameters under the direction of Ed Duncan's Great Basin National Fire Use Management Team. Crews will focus on the northeast portion of Dry Lake today to minimize fire spread and monitor Moonshine and Granny from the air. Little spread is expected for Moonshine, but Granny is expected to move northeast, and Dry Lake to grow to the northeast, north, and northwest. For more information, call Dry Lake Complex Fire Information at (505)-388-8416.
(7/3/3) Prescott National Forest Reminds Public of Fire Restrictions.
(7/3/3) White Mountain Apache Tribe Reminds Public Fire Restrictions Still in Effect on Fort Apache Reservation This Holiday Weekend.
(7/3/3) Laguna Pueblo Fire Restrictions, New Mexico.
(7/2/3) Potential Flooding in Area Burned By Ash Fire in Cochise County, Coronado National Forest.
(7/2/3) Media Advisory on Pecos Wilderness Fires in Santa Fe National Forest.
(7/1/3) Fire Restrictions in Effect on Arizona Strip July 2.
(7/1/3) Fireworks Prohibited on Cibola and All National Forest Lands
(7/1/3) Pecos Wilderness Fires--Molina and Capulin--No Threat in Santa Fe National Forest
(6/30/3) Mt. Graham and Madera Canyon in Coronado National Forest Close Due to Fire Danger
(6/30/3) Tonto National Forest Expands Closure and Fire Restriction Areas; Pine, Strawberry, and Pinal Mountains Remain Closed
(6/30/3) Santa Fe National Forest to Reinstate Fire Restrictions
(7/1/03) ARIZONA ASPEN FIRE is now 37,500 acres and 65% contained. ASPEN is burning on Mt. Lemmon in Coronado National Forest about 20 miles north of Tucson. Larry Humphrey's Southwest Area Type I Incident Management Team will transition the fire today to Rich Kvale's Eastern Arizona Type II Team. For more information, call Aspen Fire Information at (520)-749-6208
POWELL FIRE USE is a lightning-caused fire burning on the Grand Canyon's North Rim. The National Park Service is using a wildland fire use strategy to manage this 2,440-acre fire, which is about 15 air miles NW of the North Rim's developed area on Powell Plateau. Wayne Cook's Fire Use Management Team has been assigned to the fire. For more information, call the Park's Backcountry Information Center at (928)-638-7875.
HELEN'S 2 has been contained at 3,498 acres. The fire is in Saguaro National Park about 20 miles east of Tucson. The fire started June 17 by a lightning strike and has was smoldering and creeping Monday. Larry Raley's Type II Team is transitioning the fire to Ronsen's Type III Team. Saguaro National Park fire information.
PICTURE FIRE is burning in Tonto National Forest about 10 miles NE of Tonto Basin and 7 miles southwest of Young.
MORMON FIRE is located in Padre Canyon 20 miles southeast of Flagstaff, AZ, in Coconino National Forest. This 2,725-acre fire is being managed as a "confined" wildfire, Containment expected July 7. No major change since June 26. Coconino National Forest fire information
JUNIPER FIRE USE is 350 acres and burning in Juniper Mesa Wilderness in Prescott National Forest. JUNIPER is being managed as a "fire use" fire to achieve resource benefits. The fire started June 6 by lightning and has been given an area of 7,000 acres to burn within. For more information, contact: Travis Haines, Prescott National Forest, at (928)-777-5655.
(7/1/03) NEW MEXICO JENNY FIRE is located in Gila National Forest about 17 miles west/southwest of Beaverhead. JENNY was started June 20 by lightning. Currently 70 percent contained at 6,400 acres. Fire behavior has moderated and firefighters are building and improving fireline, For more information, call (505) 894-6677. DRY LAKES FIRE USE COMPLEX includes 3 lightning-caused fires burning in Gila National Forest about 27 miles northwest of Silver City--DRY LAKE, SYCAMORE, and MOONSHINE FIRES. Overall, the fire has burned 39,020 acres and has been given an area of 216,000 acres in which to burn. These fires are being allowed to burn within certain parameters under the direction of Ed Duncan's Great Basin National Fire Use Management Team. Firefighters are patrolling and monitoring Moonshine and Dry Lake Fires. Little movement is expected on each of the fires in this complex. For more information, call Dry Lake Complex Fire Information at (505)-388-8416.
MONTAÑO and ATRISCO FIRES have been burning along the Rio Grande bosque on City of Albuquerque land and are fully contained. Both fires were human-caused. MOÑTANO is 143 acres and ATRISCO 195 acres. This morning, Tim Sexton's Northwest Area Type I Incident Management Team transitioned management of these fires to Ken Schein's Type III Team.
SECO FIRE is another fire in Gila National Forest triggered by lightning on June 20. SECO is 25% contained and 5,300 acres. Crews are making provgress on improving and preparing trails and handline for future operations. Mike Bradley's Type II Incident Management Team is managing the fire but will transition to a Type III team. For more information call (505)-388-8416 or (505)-894-6677.
MONUMENT FIRE, unknown cause, was reported June 21 and is burning 8 miles north of Fort Union Monument. MONUMENT is 795 acres and fully contained.
BARRO FIRE started Sunday afternoon in Santa Fe National Forest about 15 miles east/southeast of Pecos, NM. The fire is at 75 acres and now 90% contained. It is located in steep, difficult country with limited road access. No change since June 26.
MORGAN FIRE is burning in Gila National Forest and has grown to 4,986 acres. Lightning-caused and started 6/6, the fire is being monitored from the air and a lookout tower. No major change since June 21.
BOILER FIRE USE, 40 miles northwest of Truth or Consequences, was started by lightning on April 17 and is burning in Gila National Forest's Black Range country. BOILER has burned over 58,413 acres and has been given an area of 392,875 acres in which to burn.
TEN COW FIRE USE is 13,523 acres and burning in Gila National Forest. TEN COW is 32 miles southeast of Reserve and was sparked by lightning on June 8. The fire has been given an area of 144,346 acres to burn within and has grown little since the last report on June 18.
(6/30/3) ARIZONA ASPEN FIRE is now 35,600 acres and 60% contained. ASPEN is burning on Mt. Lemmon in Coronado National Forest about 20 miles north of Tucson. Firefighters continue to burn, hold, and mop up along the north and northwest. The fire is expected to move along the west and southwest flanks. For more information, call Aspen Fire Information at (520)-749-6208.
HELEN'S 2 is 3,600 acres and burning in Saguaro National Park about 20 miles east of Tucson. The fire started June 17 from a lightning strike and is 75% contained. Crews successfully burned out the northwest division.
PICTURE FIRE is burning in Tonto National Forest about 10 miles NE of Tonto Basin and 7 miles southwest of Young. Dan Oltrogge's Southwest Area Type I Incident Management Team is managing the fire and contained it Thursday night at 12,529 acres.
THOMAS FIRE, Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests, was contained at 10,619 acres. THOMAS was a lightning-caused fire that started June 6.
MORMON FIRE is located in Padre Canyon 20 miles southeast of Flagstaff, AZ, in Coconino National Forest. This 2,725-acre fire is being managed as a "confined" wildfire, which means a combination of direct and indirect actions, including the use of natural topographic features, fuels, and favorable weather. Containment expected July 7. No major change since June 26.
(6/30/3) NEW MEXICO MONTAÑO and ATRISCO FIRES are burning along the Rio Grande bosque on City of Albuquerque land. Both fires are human-caused; MONTAÑO started a day after ATRISCO. MOÑTANO is 134 acres and ATRISCO 195 acres. Tim Sexton's Northwest Area Type I Incident Management Team is assigned to these bosque fires and hope to contain them by June 30. They're currently considered 75% contained.
JENNY FIRE is located in Gila National Forest about 17 miles west/southwest of Beaverhead. JENNY was started 6/20 by lightning. The fire is located in rocky, steep terrain and is currently 50 percent contained at 5,600 acres.
SECO FIRE is another fire in Gila National Forest triggered by lightning on June 20. SECO is 5% contained and 4,600 acres. The fire continues to spread north and south with potential for spotting over the Black Range. A fatality occurred June 26 due to a vehicle accident; which is under investigation. Mike Bradley's Type II Incident Management Team is managing the fire. For more information call (505)-388-8416 or (505)-894-6677.
(6/27/3) ARIZONA ASPEN FIRE is now 37,500 acres and 50% contained. ASPEN is burning on Mt. Lemmon about in Coronado National Forest about 20 miles north of Tucson. Some growth of the fire to the north toward planned and completed firelines. For more information, call Aspen Fire Information at (520)-749-6208.
PICTURE FIRE is burning in Tonto National Forest about 10 miles NE of Tonto Basin and 7 miles southwest of Young. Dan Oltrogge's Southwest Area Type I Incident Management Team is managing the fire and contained it this evening at 12,529 acres. Crews will continue patrolling the line, mopping up, and rehabilitation of burned areas.
HELEN'S 2 is 3,500 acres and burning in Saguaro National Park about 20 miles east of Tucson. The fire started June 17 from a lightning strike and is 25% contained. Tuesday saw extreme fire behavior as HELEN'S 2 shifted from a surface fire to torching and crowning with some short-range spotting, especially on the east flank. Today, crews will work to secure the east, northeast, and northwest flanks. Saguaro National Park fire information.
(6/27/3) NEW MEXICO JENNY FIRE is located in Gila National Forest about 17 miles west/southwest of Beaverhead. JENNY was started 6/20 by lightning. The fire is located in rocky, steep terrain and is currently 30 percent contained at 5,000 acres. Thursday saw moderate to extreme fire behavior. A communication tower and private property are threatened. Continental Divide Trail remains closed in preparation for burnout operations. For more information, call (505) 894-6677.
SECO FIRE is another fire in Gila National Forest triggered by lightning on June 20. SECO is 5% contained and 5,000 acres and well established in upper drainages on the east side of the Black Range. Crews will patrol the area with engines on the east side to protect private property, begin clearing trail along the Black Range for possitible burnout operations, and transition management of the fire to a Type II team. For more information call (505)-388-8416 or (505)-894-6677.
ATRISCO is a human-caused fire burning along the Rio Grande bosque on City of Albuquerque land. The fire is 700 acres, 10% contained, and crews hope to contain it Thursday. Some 400 homes, businesses, and a state park are threatened. The fire started near Interstate 40 and moved north Tuesday afternoon, causing evacuation of 300-400 residents and a short power outage affecting 16,000 customers.
VIRGIN FIRE started Sunday afternoon on Virgin Mesa in Santa Fe National Forest, about 5 miles northwest of Jemez Springs. Covering an area of 325 acres, the fire is 75% contained and crews hope to fully contain it today. Cause of the fire was an abandoned campfire. Crews continue mopping up within the fireline. Three prairie dogs in fire camp were observed to be acting strangely, as if sick or injured. To avoid potential exposure to contagious disease, the fire camp was moved to another location. June 25--6:00 p.m.
BARRO FIRE also started Sunday afternoon in the Santa Fe National Forest about 15 miles east/southeast of Pecos, NM. The fire is at 75 acres and now 30% contained It is located in steep, difficult country with limited road access. The fire smoldered and creeped Tuesday but today's winds and low humidities will likely cause the fire to spread. June 24 update, 8:15 p.m.
(6/25/3) Taos Zone Urges Caution, But Decides Against Fire Restrictions
(6/24/3) High Fire Danger Leads to BLM Restrictions in Southeastern Arizona.
(6/24/3) Forest Service Extends Opportunity for Local Residents to Clean Up Property Near Kaibab National Forest.
(6/24/3) Additional Campfire Restrictions to Be Initiated in Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests.
(6/24/3) Lincoln National Forest Fire Restrictions to Remain in Place.
(6/23/3) Coronado National Forest Increases Fire Restrictions.
(6/22/3) Seco Fire Causes Trail Closures in Gila National Forest's Black Range
(6/21/3) Memorial Service Scheduled June 25 for Fuels Specialist Rick Lupe
(6/22/3) ARIZONA ASPEN FIRE is 7,534 acres and 5% contained. ASPEN is burning on Mt. Lemmon about in Coronado National Forest about 20 miles north of Tucson. ASPEN poses some threat to some of the remaining homes in the Summerhaven, Loma Linda, and Syke areas. The fire has crossed the ridge over Mt. Lemmon and Radio Ridge, seriously hampering fire suppression tactics and logistics. Larry Humphrey's Southwest Area Type I Incident Management Team is assigned to ASPEN. Mt. Lemmon Highway is closed at the base of the mountain at Milepost 0. For more information, call Aspen Fire Information at (520)-749-6208,
CHERRY was contained at 926 acres. CHERRY, an escaped prescribed fire in Prescott National Forest, is about 5 miles northwest of Cherry and was managed by Dan Oltrogge's Southwest Area Type I Incident Management Team once it became an escaped wildfire. Last night, Oltrogge's team transferred management of the fire to Dan Derrick's Type III Incident Management Team. Firefighters continue to patrol the fireline and mop up as needed.
PICTURE FIRE is burning in Tonto National Forest about 10 miles NE of Tonto Basin and 7 miles south of Young. PICTURE is human-caused, over 8,000 acres, and 35% contained. John Philbin's Arizona Central West Type II Incident Management Team is assigned to the fire. The fire was active Saturday on the SE corner and fire burned into light fuels on the N and NW sides. For more information, call (928)-479-3164.
HELEN 2 is 640 acres and burning in Saguaro National Park about 20 miles east of Tucson. The fire started June 17 from a lightning strike and is 20% contained. Larry Raley's New Mexico Type II Incident Management Team is on this fire and will focus today on building fireline on the fire's east and northwest flanks. No evacuations imminent.
ASH FIRE was reported Saturday and is 12 miles south of Sierra Vista. ASH is 20% contained and threatens 12 homes and 15 other buildings. Crews today will attempt to keep the fire from the Ash Canyon community and off of Coronado National Monument. Bill Wilcox's Type III Team will transition to Mike Bradley's Type II team today. For Ash Fire information, call Joan Vasey at (520)-378-0311.
MORMON FIRE is located in Padre Canyon 20 miles southeast of Flagstaff, AZ, in Coconino National Forest. This 2,600-acre fire is being managed as a "confined" wildfire, which means a combination of direct and indirect actions, including the use of natural topographic features, fuels, and favorable weather. No major change since June 17.
PICACHO RESERVOIR FIRE is 8 miles north of Picacho and 95% contained. Despite high winds Saturday, fire behavior was minimal.
THOMAS FIRE has been contained at 10,618 acres in Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests 16 miles south of Alpine. Area trails remain closed. For more information, call THOMAS FIRE INFORMATION OFFICE at (928-339-4124).
POWELL FIRE USE is a lightning-caused fire burning on the Grand Canyon's North Rim. The National Park Service is using a wildland fire use strategy to manage this 575-acre fire, which is about 15 air miles NW of the North Rim's developed area on Powell Plateau. Wayne Cook's Fire Use Management Team has been assigned to the fire. POWELL is active and expected to burn several weeks. The North Bass, Powell Plateau, and Swamp Ridge Trails are temporarily closed. For more information, call the Park's Backcountry Information Center at (928)-638-7875.
JUNIPER FIRE USE is 350 acres and burning in Juniper Mesa Wilderness in Prescott National Forest. JUNIPER is being managed as a "fire use" fire to achieve resource benefits. The fire started June 6 by lightning and has been given an area of 7,000 acres to burn within. JUNIPER is starting to creep slowly northeast but no major change since June 14. For more information, contact: Travis Haines at (928)-777-5655.
(6/22/3) NEW MEXICO MORGAN FIRE is burning in Gila National Forest and has grown to 4,986 acres. Lightning-caused and started 6/6, the fire is being monitored by air and lookout tower. The tower reported no visible smoke yesterday.
MONUMENT FIRE, unknown cause, was reported June 21 and is burning on Fort Union Monument. MONUMENT is 100 acres but poses no threat. Today's plans include continuing to build fire line with support from aircraft and fire crews.
(6/20/3) Northern Arizona National Forests Imposing Fire Restrictions.
(6/19/3) White Mountain Apache Firefighter Rick Lupe Succumbs to May Burn Injuries, Passes Away Thursday Morning in Phoenix Hospital.
(6/19/3) Lightning Ignites Horseshoe Fire in Chiricahua Mountains, Coronado National Forest.
ARIZONA ASPEN FIRE is 2,200 acres and expected to grow considerably today. ASPEN is burning in Coronado National Forest 20 miles north of Tucson and, within an hour Thursday afternoon, burned some 250 homes in the Summerhaven area along the Mt. Lemmon Highway. Larry Humphrey's Southwest Area Type I Incident Management Team has been assigned to ASPEN. Catalina Highway is closed at Milepost 20. For more information, call Aspen Fire Information at (520)-749-0519/0657/0659/0571 or (520)-678-9418. June 20 update: 11:00 a.m.
CHERRY is 1,000 acres and burning just northwest of the community of Cherry. The fire area is about 5 miles west of Cherry. Dan Oltrogge's Southwest Area Type I Incident Management Team has been assigned to the incident. CHERRY is 70% contained and crews hope to contain the fire completely this evening. The Federal Mine area, about 2 miles NW of Cherry, has been evacuated and the junctions of Forest Road 132 and Cherry Road along with Forest Roads 105 and 132 are also closed. Some 30 homes and an electronics site face possible threat. For more information, call the Cherry Fire Information Center at (928)-759-4900. June 20 update, 7:00 a.m., June 19--Evac. order lifted
PICTURE FIRE is burning in Tonto National Forest about 10 miles NE of Tonto Basin. PICTURE is human-caused, over 2,000 acres, and 10% contained. John Philbin's Type II Incident Management Team is assigned to the fire. Yesterday, the fire made a 2-mile run and could make a similar run north/northeast today if weather conditions persist. For more information, call Rick Hartigan at (928)-479-3164. June 19 update: news release.
LIZARD is burning in Coconino National Forest about 9 miles SE of Flagstaff. The fire is 4,517 acres and 85% contained. Light smoke continues to limit visibility on Interstate 40.
MORMON FIRE is located in Padre Canyon 20 miles southeast of Flagstaff, AZ, in Coconino National Forest. This 2,600-acre fire is being managed as a "confined" wildfire, which means a combination of direct and indirect actions, including the use of natural topographic features, fuels, and favorable weather.
PICACHO RESERVOIR FIRE is 8 miles north of Picacho and 90% contained. Firefighters hope to contain this 925-acre fire tonight. One residence is threatened.
THOMAS FIRE has been contained at 10,618 acres in Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests 16 miles south of Alpine. Area trails remain closed. For more information, call THOMAS FIRE INFORMATION OFFICE at (928-339-4124).
NEW MEXICO MORGAN FIRE is burning in Gila National Forest and has grown to 4,986 acres. Lightning-caused and started 6/6, the fire is being monitored by air and lookout tower. The tower reported no visible smoke yesterday.
DRY LAKE COMPLEX FIRE USE includes 3 lightning-caused fires burning in Gila National Forest about 27 miles northwest of Silver City--DRY LAKE, SYCAMORE, and MOONSHINE FIRES. Overall, the fire has burned 20,500 acres and has been given an area of 216,000 acres in which to burn. These fires are being allowed to burn within certain parameters under the direction of Dick Rath's Northern Region Fire Use Management Team. For more information, call Dry Lake Complex Fire Information at (505)-388-8416. June 20 Update; Jerky Mt. Trail Closure.
TEN COW FIRE USE is 13,523 acres and burning in Gila National Forest. TEN COW is 32 miles southeast of Reserve and was sparked by lightning on June 8. The fire has been given an area of 144,346 acres to burn within and has not grown significantly since June 13.
BOILER FIRE USE, 40 miles northwest of Truth or Consequences, was started by lightning on April 17 and is burning in Gila National Forest's Black Range country. BOILER has burned over 58,413 acres and has been given an area of 392,875 acres in which to burn
(6/19/3) ARIZONA Homes and businesses have been evacuated in the Summerhaven area along the Mt. Lemmon Highway near Tucson. ASPEN FIRE was reported Tuesday afternoon and has burned over 120 acres. Larry Humphrey's Southwest Area Type I Incident Management Team has been assigned to ASPEN. Catalina Highway is closed at Milepost 20. For more information, call the Aspen Fire Information number at (520)-749-7738.
06-19-03 PICACHO RESERVOIR Human caused, started 6/14 Located 8 miles north of Picacho, AZ 90% contained. Estimate containment 1800, 6/20. Area involved: 925 acres Fuels: Mesquite, grass, salt cedar Remarks: High wind gusts yesterday pushed the fire to the east and southeast with short runs. Plans for today include patrol and monitor the fire with one engine. Resources: Type 3 Incident (Alexander, IC), 1 engine. Total 3 personnel.
PICTURE Tonto National Forest Human caused, started 6/17 Located 10 miles northeast of Tonto Basin, AZ 10% contained. No estimate of containment. Area involved: 2,000 acres Fuels: Ponderosa Pine, Chapparel, Juniper Remarks: Active fire behavior reported yesterday with rapid spread rates and multiple spotting up to .25 miles. Fire made a 2 mile run to the north/northwest. Plans for today include anchoring and flanking northwest side. Potential for fire to make substantial run to the north/northeast if Red Flag conditions persist through today. Resources: Type 2 Incident (Philbin, IC), 14 Type 1 crews, 3 helicopters, 8 engines, 2 dozers, 1 water tender. Total 462 personnel. Cooperating agencies include Gila County Sheriff's Office and local Fire Departments. CHERRY Prescott National Forest Human caused, started 6/17 Located 5 miles northwest of Cherry, AZ 90% contained. Estimate containment today at 1800. Area involved: 1,000 acres Fuels: Chapparel, Oak Remarks: This is a prescribed fire declared a wildland fire on 6/17. Heavy fuels in the area with a high dead to live ratio. Fire activity yesterday consisted primarily of smoldering duff and stumps, although lines were tested, at times, as Red Flag conditions prevailed through the afternoon. Impacts of smoke affecting airshed and Sycamore Canyon Wilderness. Plans for today include patrol and hold lines, and mop-up as needed. Red Flag Warnings could test control lines again today. Resources: Type 1 Incident (Oltrogge, IC), 13 Type 1 crews, 10 Type 2 crews, 3 helicopters, 18 engines, 4 dozers, 6 water tenders. Total 672 personnel. Cooperating agencies include Yavapai County and Red Cross. WILSON Colorado River Tribal Lands Unknown cause, started 6/19 Located 5 miles south of Parker, AZ 50% contained. Area involved: 250 acres Threats: None Fuels: Mesquite, salt cedar, and arrowweed Remarks: Moderate fire behavior in heavy fuels. Plans for today include mop-up. Low growth potential. Resources: Type 3 Incident (Foley, IC), 6 engines, 1 dozer, 1 water tender. total 24 personnel. Flagstaff Zone 1 LIZARD Coconino National Forest Lightning caused, started 6/07. Located 9 miles southeast of Flagstaff. Area involved: 4,517 acres 85% contained. Estimate containment 6/23. Threats: None Fuels: Pinon-juniper woodlands (dead stands, drought and diseased) Remarks: Fire active increased yesterday afternoon with flare-ups, small runs and short range spotting, although mostly within the fire's interior. Gusty winds causing some problems with burnout and holding. Smoke continues to intermittently reduce motorist's visibility on Interstate 40 east of Flagstaff. Plans for today include continuation of patrol and mop-up along fires perimeter. Resources: Type 3 Incident (Thornton, IC), 1 Type 1 Crews, 5 engines, 2 water tenders. Total 60 personnel. Cooperating agencies include local Fire Departments including Flagstaff, Highlands, Summitt, Sedona, Prescott, and Payson. MORMON Coconino National Forest Lightning caused, started 6/06/03. Located in Padre Canyon 20 miles southeast of Flagstaff. Area involved: 2,600 acres Remarks: Confinement strategy being employed. No significant chance since 6/17. Resources: Local management (Zettler, IC) Grand Canyon Zone 1 KNF Southeast Zone 5 1 1 ASPEN Coronado National Forest Human caused, started 6/17 Located south of Summerhaven, AZ on Mt. Lemmon, 20 miles north of Tucson, AZ 0% contained. No estimate of containment. Area involved: 2,200 acres Threats: Summerhaven, Loma Linda, ski area, Observatory, and communication site for FAA, Law Enforcement, and commercial broadcasting Fuels: Fuel Model 10, mixed conifer, brush understory Remarks: The fire became extremely active yesterday around noon as Red Flag conditions developed. With winds in excess of 25 mph and very low relative humidity, the fire moved out of Marshall Gulch pushing upslope with flame lengths in excess of 200 feet. Additional torching and excessive spotting observed. Moving to the north and northeast, the fire crossed the Ski Area road establishing in Oracle Basin. The fire is well established in Sabino Canyon in the area of Summerhaven and Loma Linda. Fire intensity has prohibited accurate evaluation of structural damage, although the best estimation so far is in the range of 200 structures involved. Plans for today include establishing an anchor position, develop strategy based on fire behavior, evaluate structural damage, and options for additional improvements. Expectations are the fire will continue to increase in size significantly. Remarks: Type 1 Incident (Humphrey, IC), 13 Type 1 crews, 8 Type 2 crews, 4 helicopters, 24 engines. Total 637 personnel. Cooperating agencies include AZ Office of Emergency Management, Pima County and Pima County Sheriffs, and AZ State Police. HELEN 2 Saguaro National Park Lightning caused, started 6/17. Located 20 miles east of Tucson, AZ Area involved: 400 acres Threats: No evacuations imminent Fuels: Ponderosa Pine, oak brush Remarks: Fire is located in steep, difficult terrain, moving to the east. Predominately a ground fire with occasional torching in thick forests. Most active portion of the fire is the south flank, approximately 600 acres away from a prescribed fire that was completed in October 2002. Location of fire is making access difficult for both operational and logistical support. Resources: Type 3 incident (Evans, IC), but transitioning to a Type 2 incident (Raley, IC) tomorrow afternoon. 6 Type 1 crews, 2 helicopters. Total 111 personnel. White Mountain Zone
NEW MEXICO * * MORGAN Gila National Forest Lightning caused, started 6/6. Area involved: 4,986 acres Fuels: Ponderosa Pine, Grass, Mixed Conifer with heavy dead and down fuels. Remarks: Appropriate Management Strategy being employed. Fire being monitored by air and lookout towers. Lookout tower reported seeing no visible smoke yesterday. Resources: Local management (Fahl, IC).
(6/18/3) Lightning Sparks Fires in Santa Fe National Forest
(6/18/3) Picture Fire Burns in Tonto National Forest
(6/17/3) Fish and Wildlife Service Plans to Ignite Middle Tank Prescribed Burn at Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge in NM
(6/17/3) BLM Implementing Fire Restrictions on Arizona Public Lands
(6/17/3) BLM Setting Fire Restrictions for Kingman, AZ, Area and Hualapai Mountain Park
(6/17/3) Windy Conditions Call for Extra Care in Kaibab, Coconino National Forests
(6/17/3) Fire Restrictions Remain the Same in Prescott National Forest
(6/18/3) ARIZONA CHERRY PRESCRIBED FIRE has escaped prescription and burned an additional 200 acres in Prescott National Forest. The fire area is about 5 miles west of Cherry. Dan Oltrogge's Southwest Area Type I Incident Management Team has been ordered along air tankers, helicopters, and additional crews. The acres out of prescription are on the fire's north end toward Mingus Mountain. No structures are immediately threatened; the nearest private land is over a mile away. For more information, call Ted Titus at Prescott Fire Center at (928)-777-5750. LIZARD grabbed national headlines Monday when it made significant runs with spotting 1-2 miles ahead. The fire forced closure of Interstate 40 in the afternoon. LIZARD is burning in Coconino National Forest about 9 miles SE of Flagstaff. Today's plans call for burnout operations and building of more fireline. LIZARD is 1,100 acres and 5% contained. No evacuations planned. MORMON FIRE is located in Padre Canyon 20 miles southeast of Flagstaff, AZ, in Coconino National Forest. This 615-acre fire is being managed as a "confined" wildfire, which means a combination of direct and indirect actions, including the use of natural topographic features, fuels, and favorable weather. PICACHO RESERVOIR FIRE is 8 miles north of Picacho and 65% contained. Firefighters hope to contain this 800-acre fire by June 20. One residence is threatened. THOMAS FIRE has been contained at 10,618 acres. THOMAS is burning in Blue Range Primitive Area in Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests 16 miles south of Alpine. Rich Kvale's Eastern Arizona Type 2 Incident Management Team has been assigned to the incident. Some rain fell on the fire and on fire camp mid-afternoon Monday. For more information, call THOMAS FIRE INFORMATION OFFICE at (928-339-4124).
(6/17/3) NEW MEXICO MORGAN FIRE is burning in Gila National Forest. Lightning-caused and started 6/6, the fire is 0% percent contained and 3,861 acres. Dennis Fahl's Type 3 Incident Management Team is assigned to MORGAN. Firefighters will monitor MORGAN's growth today and continue preparing the South Mesa Trail from Turkey Park to Divide Creek and Continental Divide Trail to serve as a fireline. No major change since Monday.
(6/17/3) Windy Conditions Call for Extra Care in Kaibab, Coconino National Forests
(6/17/3) Fire Restrictions Remain the Same in Prescott National Forest
(6/17/3) Cherry Prescribed Burn in Prescott National Forest 90% Complete
(6/16/3) Tonto National Forest Extends Fire Restrictions; Pine, Strawberry, Pinal Mountains Remain Closed
(6/16/3) Hoot Owl Fire Restrictions Implemented on Fort Apache Indian Reservation in AZ
(6/17/3) Light initial attack continued Sunday with 20 new fires (18 human-caused, 2 lightning-caused). Of these, 17 are in Arizona and 3 in New Mexico.
(6/16/3) ARIZONA PICACHO RESERVOIR FIRE is a new fire being reported by the Arizona State Lands Department. The fire is located about 8 miles north of Picacho, AZ. This 300-acre fire is 10 percent contained with an estimated containment date of 6/20. A number of local resources are assisting in suppression of the fire. RIVER FIRE is located on the Colorado River Indian Reservation about 1.5 miles north of the AVI Casino, between Bullhead City, AZ and Needles, CA. This human caused fire started 6/12 and is 90% contained. The fire has burned 491 acres in mesquite, salt cedar, and arrowweed. A number of islands on the interior of the fire continue to burn. Plans for today include continuation of mop up, work on hot spots, and monitoring.
(6/16/3) NEW MEXICO MORGAN FIRE is on the Gila National Forest. Lightning caused and started 6/6, the fire is zero percent contained Covering an area of 3,861 acres, the fire is burning in ponderosa Pine, grass, and mixed conifer with heavy dead and down fuels. Moderate fire behavior yesterday with flame lengths 2-3 fee in heavy fuels and isolated torching in brush. Fire is burning through Bonner Fire 1995, and Divide fire of 1989. Fire has reached the Continental Divide, but held to the east side. Preparation work completed on Doubtful Canyon trail from Diamond Creek to Diamond Peak to protect the Gila Trout Habitat. Planned action for the day is to monitor fire spread and continue prepping the South Mesa Trail from Turkey Park to Divide Creek and Continental Divide Trail.
(6/15/3) Moderate initial attack continued Wednesday with 6 new fire starts (3 human-caused, 3 lightning-caused). Of these, 5 are in Arizona and 1 in New Mexico.
(6/13/3) ARIZONA THOMAS FIRE is now 5,178 acres and burning in Blue Range Primitive Area in Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests 16 miles south of Alpine. THOMAS was started by lightning June 6 and is expected to grow east, south, and west due to topography and fuels. Rich Kvale's Eastern Arizona Type 2 Incident Management Team has been assigned to the incident. For more information, call THOMAS FIRE INFORMATION OFFICE at (928-339-4124). Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest implemented an area closure that restricts public access in the vicinity of THOMAS FIRE. The closure area affects the Blue Range Primitive Area west of the Blue River and north of Steeple Mesa Trail and includes the following trails: Foote Creek Trail, Horse Ridge Trail, Tutt Creek Trail, Grant Creek Trail, Upper Grant Trail, Steeple Shortcut Trail, Paradise Park Trail. and Steeple Mesa Trail. Most of the Blue Range Primitive Area remains open. The closure will remain in effect until area trails can be re-opened safely for the public.
(6/13/3) JUNIPER FIRE USE is 60 acres and burning in Juniper Mesa Wilderness in Prescott National Forest. JUNIPER is being managed as a "fire use" fire to achieve resource benefits.
(6/13/3) MORMON FIRE is located in Padre Canyon 20 miles southeast of Flagstaff, AZ. This 615-acre fire has been placed in a confinement strategy, which means a combination of direct and indirect actions are being used, including the use of natural topographic features, fuel, and favorable weather.
(6/13/3) NEW MEXICO TEN COW is 8,589 acres and burning in Gila National Forest. TEN COW is 32 miles southeast of Reserve, poses no likely threat to structures or other resources, and is being managed as "fire use."
(6/13/3) DRY LAKES COMPLEX is a number of lightning-caused fires burning in Gila National Forest about 27 miles northwest of Silver City. The complex consists of DRY, LAKE, SYCAMORE, and MOONSHINE FIRES. Overall, the area involved is 6,100 acres. These fires are being allowed to burn within certain parameters under the direction of a National Fire Use Management Team. DRY LAKES' growth will be monitored through flights and the Mogollon Fire Lookout.
(6/12/3) Prescott National Forest Reschedules Prescribed Fire in Cherry, AZ, Area
(6/12/3) White Mountain Apache Tribe Imposes Fire Restrictions on Fort Apache Indian Reservation
(6/12/3) No Fire Restrictions in Effect in Taos Zone
(6/11/3) Lincoln National Forest Plans 3 Fuels Reduction Projects
(6/12/3) ARIZONA THOMAS FIRE is burning in the steep, rugged Blue Range Primitive Area in Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests 16 miles south of Alpine. Started by lightning on June 6, the fire has grown to 3,765 acres. Fire behavior increased yesterday with growth to the west, south, and east flanks of the fire. Rich Kvale's Southeast Arizona Type 2 Incident Management Team has been assigned to the incident. For more information, call THOMAS FIRE INFORMATION OFFICE at (928-339-4124).
(6/12/3) NEW MEXICO TEN COW is 350 acres and burning in Gila National Forest with no estimate of containment. TEN COW is 32 miles southeast of Reserve and poses no likely threat to structures or other resources. Toby Richards' Type III Incident Management Team is assigned to this fire.
(6/11/3) BLM Plans Prescribed Fire Near St. David in Southeast Arizona
(6/10/3) Woodchute Fire Reported Monday Afternoon in Prescott National Forest.
(6/09/3) Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad Coordinates with Carson National Forest for 2003 Fire Season.
(6/09/3) Prescott National Forest Postpones Prescribed Burn in Cherry Area.
(6/09/3) Prescott National Forest Fire Prevention Patrols Report Quiet Weekend.
More Arizona Links
Forest Restrictions and Closures,"use this link"
Pinetop - Lakeside Council Adopts Firewise Ordnance
" click here ! "
Arizona Wildfire Prevention Website !
You can view Pinetop Fire Dept. Home Page at
www.pinetopfire.com
The Pinetop Fire Department has a
Public Information Line at 367-2002
You can view Payson Fire Dept. Home Page at
www.ci.payson.az.us/departme.htm
Payson Fire Department,
474-5242, ext. 300
A RED FLAG ALERT is
in effect in the Forests.
Whenever the weather calls for it, look for the
(red flags)...
During a red flag alert...
Do not build
campfires.
Do not smoke outside your vehicle or buildings.
Clear all
brush and debris from around your home.
Set up barbeque grills away from
home, trees, tall grass.
Do not burn trash or weeds.
Do not cut
wood.
Do not stack firewood under decks or close to buildings.
| Rodeo/Chediski Stats Slides of Fire Forest Lakes Information. |
Pinetop Fire Home.
Payson Fire Dept. Payson Roundup |
National Fire Plan A national, interagency strategy to respond to severe wildfires, reduce their impacts on rural communities, and assure sufficient firefighting capabilities for the future. For information on the cooperative efforts of federal and state agencies in the Southwest to help prevent the loss of property and livelihoods in the wildland-urban interface, that area where "rural" meets "urban". Wildland Fire Operations
First of the Season Fire Reports !
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