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

The Alpine Ranger District on the Apache Sitgreaves National Forests will be conducting approximately one mile of roadside pile burning along forest roads 403, 403F and Highway 191, starting October 31 and continuing through November 9, weather permitting. The burn consists of old decadent slash piles left over from the Wallow salvage sale, which will be burned to allow for the regeneration of new seedlings and/or native grasses.

 Smoke may be visible from the communities of Alpine and Nutrioso, and from U.S. Highway 180/191. 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.

Questions or concerns contact the Alpine Ranger District at 928-339-5000 or visit the ASNFs website at: www.fs.usda.gov/asnf

Please be advised that Fort Apache Agency will be conducting prescribed burning operations adjacent to the Reservation Boundary/Apache Sitgreaves National Forest within the Hondah Burn Unit. In addition, prescribed burning operations will continue within the Corduroy Burn Unit southwest of Hondah.
If you have any questions, please contact Candy Lupe, Public Information Officer at 928- 338-5425 or at 928-205-5662.