Clints Well, Ariz., Oct. 2, 2017, For Immediate Release — The following prescribed burns are planned for the week of Oct. 4 – 6 on the Coconino National Forest.
These prescribed burns are conducted in order to help protect communities from severe wildfires by reducing forest fuel accumulation in strategic areas around northern Arizona communities, and also reintroduce fire into the Ponderosa pine ecosystem to help restore ecological integrity.
All of the listed projects may not be pursued, as all prescribed burns are dependent upon weather and wind conditions, which can differ drastically across the forest. Prescribed burns are also subject to approval from the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality, so all or some of them could be canceled if conditions are not suitable.

MOGOLLON RIM RANGER DISTRICT.
East Clear Creek Project
When: Ignitions for this project begin Wednesday (Oct. 4) morning at 9:30 a.m. The duration of this project will be approximately two to three days.
Where: About four miles east of C.C. Cragin Reservoir.
Size: 1,300 acres in total, broken into manageable blocks each day.
Closures/Restrictions: None.
Smoke Impacts: Smoke is predicted to move toward the east/northeast and may impact local communities in the Blue Ridge area and motorists on state Route 87. Cooling temperatures in the evenings may cause smoke to settle and drain down nearby canyons.

FLAGSTAFF RANGER DISTRICT.
Mustang Burn Project (between Mountainaire and Munds Park)
When: Planned ignition will be Wednesday (Oct. 4). Ignitions typically begin close to 8:30 a.m. and duration is expected to be one day.
Where: Approximately 10 miles southeast of Flagstaff, east of Interstate 17.
Size: 600 acres.
Closures/Restrictions: None expected
Smoke Impacts: Smoke is predicted to move toward the east/northeast and may be seen by area motorist near I-40, Lake Mary Road and on the east side of Flagstaff. Smoke may settle in the areas of Flagstaff’s Country Club subdivisions, Walnut Canyon and Doney Park during the cooler evening hours and the following morning hours. It is predicted to disperse by the following afternoon.

FLAGSTAFF RANGER DISTRICT.
Munds Park Project
When: Planned ignition will be Wednesday (Oct. 4) or Thursday (Oct. 5). Ignitions typically begin close to 8:30 a.m. and duration is expected to be one day.
Where: Approximately 14 miles south of Flagstaff, immediately south of the Munds park community.
Size: 150 acres.
Closures/Restrictions: None expected
Smoke Impacts: Smoke is predicted to move toward the east/northeast and may be seen by area motorist near I-17, Lake Mary Road and on the east side of Flagstaff. Smoke may settle in the areas of Munds Park, Flagstaff’s Country Club subdivisions, Walnut Canyon and Doney Park during the cooler evening hours and the following morning hours. It is predicted to disperse by the following afternoon.
Notifications of upcoming prescribed burns are provided regularly by news releases throughout the season and also by the following online resources:
• Sign up to receive news releases from Coconino NF: www.fs.fed.us/news/subscription.shtml

The Springerville Ranger District on the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests is planning to conduct prescribed fire operations October 3rd if weather conditions are conducive to meeting objectives. The district plans to burn approximately 1469 acres on the Brady Park Unit, 6 miles South East of Vernon. Personnel will remain on scene monitoring the burn through the weekend as needed.
Ignitions will occur throughout the morning to minimize the adverse effects of smoke on the local communities. Smoke will be visible from Round Valley, Arizona State Highway 260, US Highway 60 and along Forest Roads 117, 404, and 65. Motorists are advised to drive safely when approaching areas where prescribed fire activities may limit visibility and hinder fire personnel operations.
All prescribed burns are approved through the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) before ignition begins. The ADEQ monitors air quality and determines whether or not it will be a good day for smoke dispersion. Although smoke from prescribed fire can still be noticeable, it is usually for a shorter time and considerably less smoke than wildfires produce. If you are sensitive to smoke or have respiratory problems, stay indoors if possible. Prescribed burning enhances wildlife habitat and watershed conditions, while promoting forest health and protecting communities from the effects of future high severity wildfire. This prescribed fire is in cooperation with the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s Habitat Partnership Committee, as well as the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and Mule Deer Foundation.
Questions or concerns contact the Springerville Ranger District at 928-333-6200 or visit the ASNFs website at: www.fs.usda.gov/asnf
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The Mogollon Rim Ranger District is going to begin our yearly fall prescribed burning on Monday, October 2, 2017, if conditions warrant. Fire managers plan to begin burning the East Clear Creek Project, starting at the area north of Lockwood Pit, just north of Forest Road 96. The map indicates areas in red that are planned burns this fall. Most likely the communities in the Blue Ridge area will experience smoke. Smoke is heaviest in the late evening and early morning hours, lifting by mid-morning.