Courtesy photo.
COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County Public Works, in conjunction with the U.S. Forest Service, has ignited the annual green waste burn at the Willard Springs Transfer Station. The burn is located 17 miles south of Flagstaff on the west side of I-17.
The annual green waste burn reduces the existing stockpile of pine needles, tree trimmings and other green waste at the transfer station prior to the 2020 fire season. The burn is expected to smolder until mid-spring and will be monitored by the Mormon Lake Ranger Station, Pinewood Fire Department and the Coconino County Public Works Solid Waste Division.
Based on wind and weather conditions, smoke may be heavy at times and visible to motorists on I-17. The Coconino National Forest plans to post signage on I-17 as necessary to notify motorists about smoke from the burn and to drive with caution. Smoke will be most prominent during the ignition period, which is expected to last for approximately three weeks.
When smoke levels are high, the appropriate protective measures should be followed:
- Reduce or avoid outdoor activities.
- Use the recycle or re-circulate mode on the air conditioner/heater in your home or car.
- Do not add to indoor air pollution. Don’t use anything that burns, such as wood fireplaces, gas logs, gas stoves, or even candles.
People with pre-existing conditions should avoid exposure to the smoke as much as possible and consult their physician if they have any questions or experience health issues. More information regarding the health effect of smoke from prescribed burns and wildfires is available at http://bit.ly/SmokeHealthAwareness.
For more information, please contact Ron Hollamon, Coconino County Public Works Solid Waste Manager at (928) 679-8300