Prescribed Burning on the Fort Apache Indian Reservation

Prescribed burning efforts will continue throughout this weekend on the Fort Apache Indian Reservation. This weekend and throughout next week, prescribed burning will occur within the boundaries of the following Burn Units:

• Hop Cot Burn Unit: South of Show Low, just west of Highway 60 and Forestdale
• Turkey Creek Burn Unit: Southeast of Whiteriver below the Corn Creek Plateau
• Maverick Burn Unit: South of Reservation Lake in the far eastern part of the Reservation

The decision to burn will be dependent on a “burn window.” A burn window is based on favorable conditions, including fuel moisture levels, air quality, weather forecasts, and available resources. Prescribed fires are one of the most effective tools available to resource managers for restoring fire-adapted ecosystems. These fires mimic natural fires by reducing forest fuels, recycling nutrients, and increasing habitat diversity. Each prescribed burn is designed to meet specific objectives.

Nearby residents should expect smoke in the vicinity and drivers should pay extra attention while traveling through or adjacent to burn areas. All Prescribed Fire activity will be carefully monitored and will comply with smoke management guidelines to reduce the impact of smoke on local residents. Individuals with respiratory problems are advised to avoid the outdoors as much as possible. Hunters, woodcutters and visitors are not allowed in these prescribed burn units.

Location and timing of burns will be identified on a weekly basis. If you have any questions regarding our upcoming prescribed burning efforts; you can call Candy Lupe, Public Information Officer at (928) 338-5425 or (928) 205-5662.

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Candy Lupe
Fire Prevention Specialist
Fort Apache Agency
PO Box 560
Whiteriver, Arizona 85941
Office: (928) 338-5425