Sedona AZ (July 29, 2014) – Prescott National Forest firefighters have been active in locating and suppressing several small lightning fires across the forest this past weekend. Fire officials are managing a few of these fires for resource benefit. This allows the fire to have positive effects on the landscape by reducing fuels and to promote healthy soils for vegetation grown and wildlife habitat. Crews will use various tactics to ensure the fires moves through the landscape at appropriate intensities and within pre-determined boundaries.
Perkinsville Fire: Currently 75 acres in size, the Perkinsville Fire was reported on Sunday, July 27, and is located approximately 10 miles east of Chino Valley (T16N, R1E, S5).
Twin Peaks Fire: Currently 40 acres in size, the Twin Peaks Fire was reported on Friday, July 25, and is located just east of Crown King in the Castel Creek Wilderness (T10N, R1E, S14).
Tex Canyon Fire: Currently 2 acres in size, the Tex Canyon Fire was reported on Monday, July 28, and is located north of the White Horse Subdivision (T14N, S2E, S17).
Golden Eagle Fire: Currently 4 acres in size, the Golden Eagle Fire was reported on Saturday, July 26, and is located just north of Palace Station (T12N, R2W, S14).
THINK BEFORE YOU ACT!
It only takes one spark to start a wildfire. Chainsaws, dragging trailer safety chains, carelessly tossed cigarettes, fireworks, abandoned campfires, and discharge of firearms are all known causes of wildfire. Wildfires impact recreation areas, may destroy homes, and threaten lives.
For the best Arizona news and views, read www.SedonaEye.com daily!
Prescott National Forest fire fighters continue to monitor lighting sparked fires.
Perkinsville Fire: Currently 85 acres in size, the Perkinsville Fire was reported on Sunday July 27 and is located approximately 10 miles east of Chino Valley (T16N, R1E, S5). As the Forest continued to assess the fire, its behavior, and landscape surrounding it, a decision was made to manage the Perkinsville fire in a manner that enhances restoration of the Pinon/Juniper woodland. The Forest’s objectives in such restoration include allowing naturally ignited fires (lightning) to mimic historic conditions; enhance wildlife habitat for mule deer, elk, and pronghorn; reintroduce nutrients into the soil and generate annual grass growth; and to reduce the density of trees in the woodland toward historic levels. The management strategy for this fire entails a combination of utilizing roads to contain fire spread; management ignited burnout operations to moderate fire behavior or remove fuels from containment lines as necessary; and monitoring portions of the fire to assess fire growth (if at all) and fire effects. We expect the fire to show some growth with occasional displays of larger amounts and/or darker smoke as the sun and higher temperatures over the next couple of days influences the fire’s behavior. Fire fighters will be actively engaged on scene with adequate resources to contain or suppress portions of the fire if necessary.
Twin Peaks Fire: Currently 148 acres in size, the Twin Peaks Fire was reported on Friday July 25 and is located just east of Crown King in the Castel Creek Wilderness (T10N, R1E, S14). No further spread or growth is expected. After aerial recon and mapping on July 29, there were no visible flames or smoke. The fire continues to be monitored.
Tex Canyon Fire: Currently 2 acres in size, the Tex Canyon Fire was reported on Monday July 28 and is located north of the White Horse Subdivision (T14N, S2E, S17). The fire received substantial rain and continues to be monitored.
Golden Eagle Fire: Currently 4 acres in size, the Golden Eagle Fire was reported on Friday July 25 and is located just north of Palace Station (T12N, R2W, S14). The fire is contained.