Community News

News Release: Belknap Fire Reaches 396 Acres; Ignitions Planned

September 2, 2014

TUSAYAN, Ariz – Yesterday, crews conducted limited hand ignitions along the steep terrain at the eastern perimeter of the fire planning area. All handline constructed in that area held overnight and helped establish a strong perimeter line to the east.

Today, fire managers plan to conduct both hand and aerial managed ignitions along the Coconino Rim near FSR 310 in a westward progression. Managed ignitions placed strategically along these ridge tops will allow fire to back down slope at lower intensities. Low to moderate fire intensity is an essential part of removing hazardous fuels, opening dense tree stands, improving wildlife habitat, and protecting cultural resources. 

Date/Time Reported: Tuesday August 26, 2014
Location: Southeast of Grandview Point and HWY 64
Cause: Lightning
Size: 396 acres
Landscape/Fuels: Ponderosa Pine and Pinyon/Juniper
Fire Behavior: Majority Low to Moderate Intensity

Trail Detour: Due to planned managed ignitions and active fire hazards, all Arizona Trail sections within the planning area have been temporarily detoured to follow FSR 310. Large signage and detour maps have been posted in the vicinity for notification.  

Variable winds, precipitation, and management tactics can change the amount of visible smoke each day. Currently, smoke is highly visible from sections of HWY 64 in the Desert View area of the Grand Canyon National Park and near Cameron, Ariz. For more information on smoke and air quality please visit www.azdeq.gov or www.wildlandfire.az.gov .


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Fire Information Line: 928-635-8311

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