5/11/2021 - 8:47 am
The Coconino National Forest is conducting a highly visible prescribed burn today located just east of the Naval Observatory in Flagstaff.
The 135-acre burn – which is scheduled to last one day – will likely produce large amounts of smoke visible from in and around the Flagstaff area due to light north and west winds forecasted throughout the morning.
The burn is being conducted to continue forest health and restoration in areas previously treated by mechanical thinning projects.
There are no closures or restrictions anticipated due to this burn.
In addition to the Naval burn, the Upper Beaver Creek project on the Mogollon Rim Ranger District, located about seven miles south of Mormon Lake, will continue today with 450 acres planned. Winds are expected to push smoke east over Lake Mary Road. This is the final burn planned on the Upper Beaver Creek project for the season.
Where: Mogollon Rim Ranger District. Approximately seven miles south of Mormon Lake. GPS: 34.780833, -111.448056
Why: This burn is part of a grassland restoration project that will improve forage for cattle and wildlife. It will also reduce hazardous fuels, such as dead wood and pine needles, that have accumulated in the burn area.
Size: 1,000 acres.
Method/Type of Burn: Broadcast burn.
Smoke Impacts: Smoke is expected to move to the northeast, so smoke impact can be expected near Lake Mary Road and surrounding homes south of Stoneman Lake Road.
Closures/Restrictions: None are anticipated.
Notes: This is the final burn planned on the Upper Beaver Creek area for this spring.