Category: Public Safety

Havasupai Canyon Flood Recovery Effort

by Community Contributor • August 29, 2024 • Comments Off

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By the Havasupai Tribe

GRAND CANYON — Many of you have asked how you can assist the Havasupai Tribe following the effects of last week’s flash flood. The Tribe is so appreciative of the generosity of so many people.

Grand Canyon Caverns Inn can accept donations at any time.

Our focus is on rebuilding and repairing our community and providing supplies for our tribal members.

We thank you in advance for your donation.

Here is a link to the Amazon wish list: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/3B3UA7JCYD75G…

Old Route 66 to be Closed Between Cool Pines and Sherwood Forest Roads During Culvert Construction

by Community Contributor • August 28, 2024 • Comments Off

Starting Monday, August 26, Old Route 66 will be closed for up to 65 days between N. Cool Pines Road and N. Sherwood Forest Road to reconstruct the box culvert. During this period all traffic will be detoured along E. Pittman Valley Road.

Grand Canyon National Park — Grand Canyon Water Conservation Reminder

by Community Contributor • August 27, 2024 • Comments Off

August 25, 2024 Water Update: Due to multiple breaks in the Transcanyon Waterline, mandatory water restrictions remain in place.

Your help in conserving water is crucial.

Thank you for your cooperation.

Old Route 66 to be Closed Between Cool Pines and Sherwood Forest Roads During Culvert Construction

by Community Contributor • August 22, 2024 • Comments Off

Coconino County’s contractor is mobilizing to break ground next week on a project to replace the existing Volunteer Wash box culvert on Old Route 66.

City of Flagstaff’s Lucky Lane Reconstruction Project to begin week of Sept. 23

by Community Contributor • August 22, 2024 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — As part of the annual Road Repair and Street Safety Program, the City and its contractor, C & E Paving and Grading, will be reconstructing Lucky Lane between Butler Avenue and Bronco Way. The project will begin the week of September 23 and is scheduled to be complete by late November. The work will include the removal and replacement of the asphalt pavement, sidewalk repairs and replacements, and curb replacement and installation.

Pipeline Fire closure to lift, allowing motor vehicle access in Schultz Pass area once again

by Community Contributor • August 16, 2024 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — Several roads located in the Schultz Pass area of the Coconino National Forest’s Flagstaff Ranger District will reopen to motorized vehicles tomorrow following a roughly two-year closure due to the Pipeline Fire.

The temporary trail and road closure order for the Pipeline Fire, which has been in effect since September of 2022, will be lifted at 8 a.m. Friday (Aug. 16).

Gates, barricades and signage posted in the area will be modified and removed to reflect the removal of the closure order.

Firing operations near wildfire to begin east of Clints Well

by Community Contributor • August 15, 2024 • Comments Off

CLINTS WELL, Ariz. — Fire managers are preparing to conduct firing operations on several hundred acres of land around the Tango Fire, a lightning-caused wildfire first reported last week and located 8.5 miles northeast of Clints Well.

Fire managers are planning to begin firing operations the morning of Aug. 15 and plan to conclude by the end of Friday in advance of forecasted monsoonal rains.

Smoke will be noticeable to residents of the Happy Jack and Clints Well communities and may also be visible to communities below Mogollon Rim and possibly to motorists along Interstate 17 in the area of Camp Verde.

Mechanical thinning to begin along Snowbowl Road

by Community Contributor • August 12, 2024 • Comments Off

“These mechanical thinning operations are part of a larger forest-wide initiative to fulfill our local obligations to the Forest Service’s Wildfire Crisis Strategy,” said District Ranger Matt McGrath. “These efforts are just one small part of a greater overall strategy to reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfire and subsequent post-fire flooding in the Flagstaff area.”

City of Flagstaff ‘National Night Out’ to be held on Aug. 6 at Bushmaster Park

by Community Contributor • August 1, 2024 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff ‘National Night Out’ to be held from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 6 at Bushmaster Park East Parking Lot and Community Ramada at the East Locket and North Thomas Entrance, Flagstaff.

Pinyon Plain Mine has begun Hauling Uranium Ore Through Coconino County

by Community Contributor • July 31, 2024 • Comments Off

Coconino County has been notified by the United States Forest Service that the hauling of uranium ore from Pinyon Plain Mine near Grand Canyon National Park to White Mesa Mill in Utah began this morning.

The haul route begins south on SR 64 to Williams, heads east on Interstate 40 through Flagstaff, then north on US 89 to Tuba City, and then northeast on US 160. A map with the route indicated by the red and purple lines is attached.

Coconino National Forest to lift fire restrictions Friday

by Community Contributor • July 25, 2024 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — Due to increased precipitation received across the Coconino National Forest, fire restrictions will be lifted at 8 a.m. tomorrow, July 26, 2024.

While forest-wide restrictions have been lifted, several areas of the Coconino National Forest are subject to permanent year-round fire restrictions, which will remain in effect.

Additionally, forest visitors are asked to adhere to best practices while building a campfire. Where fires are permitted, use established fire rings, fire pans or mound fires, and keep fires small. Never leave a campfire unattended. Use at least 6 gallons of water and a shovel to completely extinguish a campfire. Before leaving a campsite, make sure all campfires are dead out, wet and cold to the touch.

City of Flagstaff to lift fire restrictions Friday at 8 a.m.

by Community Contributor • July 25, 2024 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff will lift current fire restrictions and return to Stage 0 fire restrictions on Friday, July 26 at 8 a.m.

Under Stage 0 fire restrictions,

Smoking and use of electronic cigarettes are prohibited in all public places within the City of Flagstaff, including City Parks, Open Spaces, and the Flagstaff Urban Trail System (FUTS) at all times.

City of Flagstaff Stormwater Section releases recommendations and resources for upcoming monsoon season

by Community Contributor • July 15, 2024 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — Each year, the City of Flagstaff Stormwater Section releases up-to-date recommendations and resources on monsoon and flood awareness. With monsoon season upon us, residents are encouraged to review the updated information, which includes the following recommendations:

United Way of Northern Arizona — Can You Help Our Airport Be ‘Operation Ready’? at Pulliam Airport

by Community Contributor • July 11, 2024 • Comments Off

Every three years, Flagstaff Pulliam Airport stages a full-scale exercise to test responses to an aircraft accident at the airport. This is an event that requires help from the entire community, and involves representatives from the city, county, state, and federal government, private sector and non-government partners and lots of volunteers.

This year’s all-day exercise, called Operation Ready FLG. will take place on Monday, September 9, 2024 and requires about 60 volunteers to portray injured and non-injured passengers of a simulated plane crash and mass casualty incident.

United Way of Northern Arizona is helping to coordinate volunteers for the event.

Lockett Fire operations nearing completion

by Community Contributor • July 11, 2024 • Comments Off

TUSAYAN — Crews completed planned ignitions around the entire perimeter and in the interior of the Lockett Fire planning area yesterday, bringing the total number of acres treated to 2,782.

Helicopter operations will continue today to locate areas which did not receive fire effects and determine if further isolated ignitions are required. Crews on the perimeter of the planning area will be patrolling to ensure the fire stays within containment lines, and resource advisors will work to identify areas requiring rehabilitation, such as on dozer lines, hand lines, and other areas impacted by firefighter activity to mitigate potential erosion issues in the future. Crews and equipment will be working along forest roads and smoke may cause decreased visibility – drive with caution.

Aerial ignitions begin on Lockett Fire east of Tusayan

by Community Contributor • July 11, 2024 • Comments Off

TUSAYAN — Cooler temperatures, increasing humidity, and light winds to the south allowed fire crews to begin tactical firing operations along the eastern end of the Lockett Fire planning area perimeter yesterday evening, treating 274 acres of forest landscape with low-severity fire. The applied fire moved slowly across the forest floor, consuming pine needle duff, dead-and-down woody debris, and some standing snags.

The NAU Review — Protecting northern Arizona’s forests, creating ceramics in one of the country’s largest wood-fired kilns and spotlighting Olympics-bound Lumberjacks

by Community Contributor • July 10, 2024 • Comments Off

In 1996, John Paul Roccaforte and his colleagues at NAU’s Ecological Research Institute embarked on an ambitious mission to study restoration across more than 5,000 acres of dense ponderosa pine forests in northern Arizona. After two decades of hands-on investigation, they successfully decreased the area’s tree density and vulnerability to wildfire—unlocking the key to revitalizing and protecting our beloved local ecosystem in an era when fires in the West burn hotter and bigger than ever.

Stage 1 Fire Restrictions to begin July 11 on the North Kaibab Ranger District

by Community Contributor • July 9, 2024 • Comments Off

FREDONIA — Due to increasing fire danger, Stage 1 Fire and Smoking Restrictions will go into effect beginning 6:00 a.m. Thursday, July 11, 2024 on the North Kaibab Ranger District – all Kaibab National Forest lands north of the Grand Canyon. The North Kaibab received less rain from recent storms than the Williams and Tusayan Districts south of the Grand Canyon, which will not go into restrictions at this time.

City of Flagstaff — Hazardous Products Center shifting Public Dropoff to Monday, Wednesday, and Friday

by Community Contributor • July 5, 2024 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff Hazardous Product Center (HPC), located at the Cinder Lake Landfill will be adjusting their public drop off schedule to Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 8:00 am-4:00pm beginning on July 10th, 2024. This new schedule will ensure that staff has the ability to properly track and dispose of hazardous products dropped at the facility in a safe and timely manner.

Modified Transcanyon Waterline construction closures begin Oct. 21, 2024

by Community Contributor • July 5, 2024 • Comments Off

GRAND CANYON, Ariz. – The National Park Service (NPS) is announcing modified closure dates of inner canyon trails and facilities to support the Transcanyon Waterline (TCWL) construction project.

New inner canyon closure dates are:

Bright Angel Trail north of Havasupai Gardens and the Silver Bridge that crosses the Colorado River, Oct 21, 2024-May 14, 2025
Bright Angel Campground, Nov 4, 2024-May 14, 2025
Plateau Point Trail from the Tonto Trail Junction north of Havasupai Gardens to Plateau Point, Oct. 12, 2023-May 14, 2025

New lightning-caused fire on Tusayan Ranger District

by Community Contributor • July 5, 2024 • Comments Off

TUSAYAN — A new lightning-caused wildfire discovered last week east of Tusayan will be managed in a confine and contain strategy within designated areas to reduce fuel loads and promote healthier landscapes.

The Lockett Fire started on June 29 and is located approximately 12 miles east of Tusayan along the Coconino Rim, between Forest Road 307 and Forest Road 310. It is currently 16 acres burning in ponderosa pine forest, moving with a slow rate of spread and consuming pine needle duff and dead-and-down woody debris and stumps on the forest floor. This fire is burning in the footprint of the 2014 Belknap Fire.

City of Flagstaff to begin annual Road Repair and Street Safety Project

by Community Contributor • July 1, 2024 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — The City will begin work on the 2024 Road Repair and Street Safety (RRSS) project on Monday, July 8. The project will address numerous deteriorated roads around the city, with work including milling, paving, and updates to utilities, curbs, gutters, sidewalks, and pavement markings. The goal of the RRSS project is to update infrastructure for motorists, pedestrians, cyclists, and other modes of transportation.

Grand Canyon National Park to lift Stage 2 Fire Restrictions Monday, July 1

by Community Contributor • July 1, 2024 • Comments Off

GRAND CANYON, Ariz. – Effective on Monday, July 1 at 8 a.m., Stage 2 fire restrictions are rescinded for the entire Grand Canyon National Park. Increased monsoonal activity throughout northern Arizona has significantly lowered the fire danger risk within the last week.

Grand Canyon National Park will remain in Stage 1 fire restrictions which requires that a campfire always be in a designated fire ring within a maintained campground. Inner canyon users can use gas cook stoves, but campfires and other open fires are never allowed below the rim. River users should continue to follow the conditions of their permit regarding fires along the Colorado River.

City of Flagstaff holds swearing in ceremony for new Chief of Police

by AmigosNAZ • June 28, 2024 • Comments Off

Sean Connolly, center, was officially sworn in as Flagstaff Chief of Police at a ceremony held during the City Council’s work session on June 25.

Connolly, who takes over from retiring Chief of Police Dan Musselman, was sworn in during an event attended by family, friends, law enforcement officials from Phoenix and Chandler — and a surprise bagpipe performance by City of Flagstaff Senior Assistant City Attorney Marianne E. Sullivan.

Connolly, who was born in Flagstaff, served in the Phoenix Police Dept. for more than 30 years in such capacities as police commander and assistant police chief. He earned his master’s degree in educational leadership from Northern Arizona University, and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Arizona.

Coconino County Downgrading to Stage 1 Fire Restrictions Friday Morning

by Community Contributor • June 27, 2024 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — After consultation with partner agencies in the region, Coconino County Emergency Management (CCEM) and the County Manager’s Office will be downgrading the County’s fire restrictions to Stage 1 on Friday June 28, 2024 at 8 a.m.

During Stage 1 fire restrictions the following activities are prohibited at all times, unless exempted by the County’s Wildfire Defense Ordinance:

Igniting, building, maintaining, or using a fire, including fires fueled by combustible materials such as wood, charcoal, briquettes, and/or coal.
Smoking outdoors.
Use of explosive targets, tracer rounds, or incendiary ammunition.

City of Flagstaff moving back to Stage 1 Fire Restrictions on June 28

by Community Contributor • June 27, 2024 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF —The City of Flagstaff will move back to Stage 1 Fire Restrictions at 8 a.m. on Friday, June 28, 2024.

Under Stage 1 Fire Restrictions,

Permits for open burning within the City will not be issued.
The sale or use of consumer-grade fireworks is prohibited.
The use of charcoal and wood-fired BBQs are prohibited in City parks and open spaces.
Use of fire pits and other open flame devices without an on/off switch are prohibited on Red Flag Warning days, as issued by the National Weather Service.

Coconino National Forest moving back to Stage 1 fire restrictions

by Community Contributor • June 27, 2024 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — Due to the amount of rain the forest has received over the last several days that reduced the criteria for meeting Stage 2, Coconino National Forest will move back to Stage 1 fire restrictions Friday (June 28) at 8 a.m.

Stage 1 restrictions prohibit fires, campfires, charcoal, coal, wood stoves, and smudge pots, except within a developed recreation site. Smoking is also prohibited, except within an enclosed vehicle, building or an official developed recreation site. Fireworks are always prohibited on all national forests.

City of Flagstaff announces Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) City of Flagstaff ARPA Local Recovery Funds Aid to Nonprofits Providing Victim Services

by Community Contributor • June 26, 2024 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff is pleased to announce the availability of American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (“ARPA”) Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds to promote the recovery of nonprofit organizations in the City that were negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The City can use these funds to make strategic investments by providing valuable resources to community nonprofits to help ensure a strong and equitable recovery from the pandemic.

Dredging work in the Rio de Flag to begin June 26

by Community Contributor • June 24, 2024 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — City of Flagstaff Stormwater crews will begin dredging work in the Rio de Flag channel between Aspen Ave and Birch Ave on Wednesday, June 26. The project is expected to be complete by Friday, June 28. This work will necessitate the closure of six to eight parking spots in the northwest corner of the Downtown Library parking lot.

Stage 2 Fire Restrictions to Begin Friday in Coconino County

by Community Contributor • June 19, 2024 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — Representatives from both Coconino and Kaibab National Forests have indicated their intent to move to Stage 2 fire restrictions Friday, June 21 at 8 a.m. Per Coconino County Ordinance 2024-01, Coconino County Emergency Management (CCEM) will implement Stage 2 fire restrictions in all unincorporated areas of the County at the same time.

Under the County’s Stage 2 restrictions the following activities are prohibited at all times, in all County jurisdictions:

Igniting, building, maintaining, or using a fire, including fires fueled by combustible materials such as wood, charcoal, briquettes, and/or coal.
Smoking outdoors.
Use of internal combustion engines for common household-only activities, such as landscaping or property maintenance and repair.
Use of explosive targets, tracer rounds, or incendiary ammunition.
Outdoor mechanical and industrial operations such as welding and/or the use of acetylene or other torch with an open flame.

Stage 2 fire restrictions begin Friday, June 21 at Grand Canyon National Park

by Community Contributor • June 19, 2024 • Comments Off

GRAND CANYON, Ariz. — Due to warm and dry weather conditions and increasing fire danger, Grand Canyon National Park will implement Stage 2 fire restrictions for the South Rim, North Rim and Inn Canyon beginning at 8 a.m. on Friday, June 21.

The restriction encompasses the entire park including all campgrounds, residential areas, backcountry sites and developed recreation sites including: Phantom Ranch, Cottonwood Campground, Havasupai Gardens Campground and the Colorado River corridor.

City of Flagstaff — Stage 2 Fire Restrictions begin on Friday, June 21

by Community Contributor • June 18, 2024 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff will enter Stage 2 Fire Restrictions at 8 a.m. on Friday, June 21, 2024.

Stage 2 Fire Restrictions include the following new restrictions:

The use of fire pits and other open flame devices without an on/off switch is prohibited.
The use of charcoal and wood-fired BBQs are prohibited throughout the city, including at private residences and campgrounds.
The use of propane and gas BBQs with an on-off switch are still allowed throughout the city.

Coconino National Forest strengthening fire restrictions Friday

by Community Contributor • June 18, 2024 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — The Coconino National Forest will implement Stage 2 fire and smoking restrictions beginning 8 a.m. Friday, June 21 as the threat of unwanted wildfires increases due to hot, dry and windy weather conditions.

Under Stage 2 restrictions, the following are prohibited forest-wide:

Igniting, building, maintaining, or using a fire (including charcoal and briquettes) anywhere within the Coconino National Forest, including developed recreation sites. This prohibition also includes smudge pots and wood stoves.
Smoking outside (with the exemption of smoking within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site or while stopped in an area at least 3 feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of any flammable material) …

Coconino County announces updated Coconino County Situational Awareness Viewer that provides real-time access to critical emergency information

by Community Contributor • June 14, 2024 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — Stay informed with our updated Coconino County Situational Awareness Viewer!

We are excited to announce the enhanced Situational Awareness Viewer. This all-hazards dashboard provides you with real-time access to critical emergency information, all in one convenient place.

Key Features:
Stay updated on the latest emergency alerts and evacuation orders.
View the latest fire restrictions and wildfire ordinance.
Interactive maps to help you understand which areas are affected during an emergency.

Flagstaff Police Chief Musselman to be recognized during June 18 Council Meeting

by Community Contributor • June 14, 2024 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — Members of the public are invited to attend a recognition event for Flagstaff Police Chief Dan Musselman during the Tuesday, June 18 Council Meeting. The meeting will start at 3 p.m. and will be held at City Hall (211 W Aspen Ave). Light refreshments will be served.

Chief Musselman began working for the City of Flagstaff in November 1995 as a Police Officer. During his almost 29-year career with the City he served as Corporal Detective, Police Sergeant, Police Lieutenant, and Deputy Police Chief. He began serving as the City of Flagstaff Police Chief in December 2020.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: June 10-14, 2024

by Community Contributor • June 13, 2024 • Comments Off

Last Call! Firewise Cleanup ends this Friday

We need your help in preventing wildfire severity! Now through this Friday, June 14, the Firewise Cleanup is being held throughout the South Rim residential areas.

Here’s how you can make a difference:

Clear dead woody debris from around your residence, up to 30 ft.
Rake pine needles and leaves (please minimize collection of dirt and rocks-this will inhibit effective pile burning in the future)
Move firewood away from contact with structures (more than 10 ft. is recommended)
Please do not collect industrial lumber; this material will be left.

Large prescribed burn project next to Timberline community planned for this fall

by Community Contributor • June 13, 2024 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — Coconino National Forest fire managers will begin preparing this summer for the upcoming Timberline prescribed burn project adjacent to the Timberline community northeast of Flagstaff, which burn will be conducted at later dates between mid-October and mid-November.

Residents will begin to see dozers and personnel working in the forest around the prescribed burn area throughout the summer as they prepare the landscape for a safe and successful burn.

This 1,730-acre project is important as it will remove forest fuels in strategic areas, helping mitigate and protect the Timberline-Fernwood and surrounding communities from future extreme wildfires.

Coconino County Supervisors Survey $60 Million of Post-Wildfire Flood Mitigation Progress in Pipeline Fire Area

by Community Contributor • June 13, 2024 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — The Coconino County Board of Supervisors recently toured the Pipeline Fire Flood Area to observe the progress of post-wildfire flood mitigation in the eight fire-impacted watersheds.

In the fifteen months since the receipt of federal funding, the Coconino County Flood Control District (District) has implemented over $60 million worth of mitigation, including over 240 acres of watershed restoration, over 250 erosion control structures, and nearly 5 miles of storm drain pipe and concrete channels.

“It’s monumental,” said District 4 Supervisor and Chair of the Board Judy Begay. “When I see the pace and scale of what has been accomplished to improve conditions for our people, I feel very proud of this team.”

United Way of Northern Arizona — Reveal Your Inner Hero: Volunteer to Help in Emergencies

by Community Contributor • June 7, 2024 • Comments Off

With the potential for continued warm, dry, and windy conditions throughout Northern Arizona, Stage 1 Fire Restrictions were enacted today (June 6) in the City of Flagstaff, unincorporated parts of Coconino County, and the Coconino National Forest.

The precaution is to lessen the chance of a devastating wildfire like the ones we’ve had over the years, most recently the Tunnel and Pipeline Fires of 2022 and the Museum Fire in 2019.

United Way of Northern Arizona coordinates crisis response volunteers for both Coconino County and the City of Flagstaff during emergencies and disasters.

The best time to plan for an emergency is before one happens, which is why we’d like to ask you to consider adding your name to the list of volunteers we can call on if an emergency occurs.

Resources responding to 100-acre Bravo Fire located on Camp Navajo west of Flagstaff

by Community Contributor • June 6, 2024 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — Resources are responding to a 100-acre wildfire on Camp Navajo located 9 miles west of Flagstaff.

The Bravo Fire was reported at 11 a.m. today and resources responding to the incident include the Arizona National Guard, one Hotshot crew, two hand crews and one engine.

Summer Safety: Avoid Hiking During Excessive Heat Warnings

by Community Contributor • June 6, 2024 • Comments Off

GRAND CANYON — The National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat warning for parts of Grand Canyon National Park. The warning is in effect from 8 a.m. Thursday, June 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, June 7 for areas below 4,000 feet in the canyon including Phantom Ranch and Havasupai Gardens. Forecast temperatures in the shade range between 105 F/41 C and 111 F/44 C. Hotter than normal temperatures will also hit the rims, with highs of 92 F/33 C on the South Rim and 85 F/30 C on the North Rim.

The NAU Review — NAU’s first Hispanic/Latine youth media workshop, more news

by Community Contributor • June 5, 2024 • Comments Off

For the first time, the School of Communication hosted a free two-day seminar for Hispanic and Latine high school students looking to explore film and visual communication.

Stage 1 Fire Restrictions to Begin Thursday in Coconino County

by Community Contributor • June 4, 2024 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — With the potential for continued warm, dry, and windy conditions throughout Northern Arizona in the coming days, the Coconino National Forest will begin Stage 1 Fire Restrictions this Thursday, June 6, 2024 at 8:00 a.m.

Per Coconino County Ordinance 2024-01, Coconino County Emergency Management (CCEM) will implement Stage 1 fire restrictions in all unincorporated areas of the County at the same time.

Under the County’s Stage 1 restrictions igniting, building, or maintaining a fire fueled by combustible materials such as wood, charcoal, briquettes, and/or coal is strictly prohibited, except within a developed recreation site. Smoking is also prohibited, except within an enclosed vehicle, building, or a developed recreation site. The use of tracer or incendiary rounds of ammunition or explosive targets is also strictly prohibited. Fireworks are always prohibited on all National Forest and State lands.

Fire restrictions begin Thursday on Coconino National Forest

by Community Contributor • June 4, 2024 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — Due to forest conditions and a number of key factors being met, Stage 1 fire and smoking restrictions begin 8 a.m., Thursday, June 6, across the entire Coconino National Forest.

Under Stage 1 restrictions, fires, campfires, charcoal, coal, wood stoves, and smudge pots are prohibited, except within a developed recreation site. Smoking is also prohibited, except within an enclosed vehicle, building or an official developed recreation site. Fireworks are always prohibited on all national forests.

Museum Fire/ Spruce Wash flood area siren testing scheduled for Friday, June 14 at 10 a.m.

by Community Contributor • June 4, 2024 • Comments Off

During the testing, residents in the area will hear an alarm sound, followed by a voice message repeated three times in English, Spanish and Navajo, concluding with a wind down siren sound signifying the end of that message. This process may repeat several times during the testing period. Testing may be postponed in the event of rain or smoke in the area. To hear the siren sounds that will be used or to read more about the Museum Fire flood area siren alerting system, please visit www.museumfloodprojects.com/sirensystem

District 1 Supervisor Patrice Horstman — April/May Newsletter 2024

by Community Contributor • June 3, 2024 • Comments Off

• Hello From Supervisor Horstman
• Andy Bertelsen Appointed Next County
Manager
• 4FRI and Upper Rio de Flag Forest Restoration Update
• Flood Control District Receives $19.3 Federal
• PROTECT Grant for HWY 89
• Pinyon Uranium Mine Continues to Extract Ore
• County Designates Lake Mary Road as Recreation Corridor: Where the World Comes To Train
• Valle Arizona: An Innovative Community
ª Cheshire Community Gets Creative about Improving Street Safety
• BLM/AZ RAC Meeting on Proposed Recreation Fees at Arizona BLM Sites
• Western Interstate Conference in Yosemite Highlights Partnership and Responsible Land Management
• Northern Arizona Tradition Continues … Next generation of Moon-Bound Astronauts Train at Babbitt Ranches.
• Mount Elden Trailhead Re-Opens

Lake Mary Road Pavement Preservation Work Starts Monday, June 3

by Community Contributor • June 3, 2024 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County’s contractor is preparing to conduct pavement preservation operations starting next Monday, June 3 along the six-mile stretch of Lake Mary Road between the Flagstaff city limits and Milepost 332.

C & E Paving & Grading is scheduled to work during daylight hours. Traffic control will be in place and pilot cars will be used to guide vehicles through the work zone. The project is scheduled to be completed by next Friday, June 7; however, this schedule is subject to change due to weather or other unforeseen factors.

Forest restoration work to begin northeast of Flagstaff

by Community Contributor • June 3, 2024 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — A new fuels reduction project, slated to begin next week, will work to protect communities northeast of Flagstaff from future catastrophic wildfire while restoring forest land to a healthier condition.

The Coconino National Forest’s Flagstaff Ranger District (FRD) will begin work on the Timberline Wupatki Trails Hazardous Fuels Reduction project Monday.

“We’re looking forward to adding another layer of risk reduction to the Timberline and Wupatki Trails communities by proactively taking this initiative,” said District Ranger Matt McGrath. “This project is just one small part of our overall commitment to Wildfire Crisis Strategy work.”

Sandbag removal in Coconino Estates to begin in July after completion of flood mitigation project, volunteers needed

by Community Contributor • May 30, 2024 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — Residents of the Coconino Estates neighborhood can begin moving sandbags to the curb in front of their home in late July, following the completion of the Schultz Creek Drainage Improvements Project at US Hwy 180. City of Flagstaff crews will begin sandbag pick-up and removal from the neighborhood in August. City employees cannot go onto private property to remove sandbags, so residents should ensure that their sandbags are placed in City right of way prior to pick-up.

Fire danger changed to ‘High” in all three local Ranger Districts

by Community Contributor • May 29, 2024 • Comments Off

By the U.S. Forest Service – Coconino National Forest

COCONINO COUNTY — Fire danger has changed to “High” on all three districts with continued windy and warmer temperatures throughout the forest, Coconino County officials reported on the county’s Facebook page

When the fire danger is “High,” fires can start easily from most causes, and small fuels (such as grasses and needles) will ignite readily. Unattended campfires and brush fires are likely to escape. Fires will spread easily, with some areas of high-intensity burning on slopes or concentrated fuels. Fires can become serious and difficult to control unless they are put out while they are still small.

City of Flagstaff — Speed limit on portions of Butler Avenue reduced

by Community Contributor • May 21, 2024 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — The speed limit on portions of Butler Ave has been reduced, effective immediately. The speed limit on Butler Ave from S Milton Rd/ Rte 66 to E Sawmill Rd was reduced from 35 mph to 30 mph and the speed limit from E Sawmill Rd to Ponderosa Pkwy was reduced from 40 mph to 35 mph. Speed limit signs in the corridor have been updated.

Prescribed burn projects continue around Flagstaff

by Community Contributor • May 17, 2024 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — Coconino National Forest fire managers will begin conducting the Mint West prescribed burn project this weekend to help protect communities from catastrophic wildfires and improve the health of the forest.

The Mint West project is slated to begin Saturday, May 18 and is located 25 miles south of Flagstaff. Smoke impacts may occur along Lake Mary Road and in the Mormon Lake Village area.

Plans for prescribed burns often change quickly since they are dependent upon weather conditions and wind predictions. Details and updates about all prescribed burns can be found at inciweb.wildfire.gov. Planned prescribed burn projects will always be canceled if weather conditions – such as temperature, wind and humidity – do not meet the criteria outlined in the burn plan.

Andreani Recognized for Post-Wildfire Recovery Accomplishments with 2024 Phoenix Award

by Community Contributor • May 16, 2024 • Comments Off

Andreani was nominated for the award on the merits of her leadership in post-wildfire flood response in Coconino County, where she has dedicated many years of service in the pursuit of solution-oriented approaches to both wildfire recovery and forest restoration. Andreani has also served on the federal Wildland Fire Mitigation and Management Commission, testified to Congress about wildfire response, and developed a network of partnerships and education to support wildfire response in communities throughout the Western United States.

Installation of traffic calming infrastructure to begin in Boulder Pointe neighborhood

by Community Contributor • May 16, 2024 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — Work to install traffic calming infrastructure in the Boulder Pointe neighborhood and on Woodland Dr will begin on Monday, May 20 and will be complete in August 2024. The purpose of the project is to address speeding concerns in thearea by installing traffic calming measures that include traffic circles, pedestrian crossings and curb bump outs. The project will occur at five locations:

Upper Rio de Flag Forest Restoration Project Moves Forward to Reduce Wildfire Risk in Flagstaff

by Community Contributor • May 7, 2024 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — Since its launch in early March, the Upper Rio de Flag Forest Restoration Project has reached important initial milestones toward the goal of reducing the significant wildfire and post-wildfire flood risks that face the greater Flagstaff area.

Spearheaded by the Coconino National Forest and the Coconino County Flood Control District, the Upper Rio de Flag Forest Restoration Project targets roughly 12,000 acres across six priority areas in the first phase of its forest restoration treatments.

Speed Limit Lowered on Lake Mary Road to Aid Wolf Fire Backburning Operations

by Community Contributor • May 7, 2024 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — The Coconino County Public Works Department has lowered the top speed limit to 35 mph along the southernmost 10 miles of Lake Mary Road in support of U.S. Forest Service (USFS) backburning operations for the Wolf Fire.

The 35-mph speed limit is in effect on Lake Mary Road between Milepost 300.5, which is located about five miles south of Happy Jack, to the junction with State Route 87. Electronic message boards are also in place to notify motorists of the speed limit reduction.

The reduced speed limit is being implemented for the safety of firefighters who are working alongside Lake Mary Road, and for the traveling public due to potentially heavy smoke from backburning operations that could obscure visibility and create hazardous driving conditions.

Coconino National Forest to resume prescribed fire plans next week following rain-induced delay

by Community Contributor • May 3, 2024 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — Coconino National Forest fire managers will resume spring prescribed fire plans following an unexpected delay due to precipitation across northern Arizona.

“Last weekend’s snow and rain is an example of why we always frame our prescribed fire plans as ‘tentative’ until we can conduct our pre-project test fire,” said Jason Clawson, Coconino National Forest Fire Staff Officer.

Successful prescribed fire requires ideal conditions. “Hazardous fuels” – including pine needle accumulation, dead and down trees and decaying plant matter on forest floors – need to be dry enough to burn at a low rate of intensity, but not too dry as to burn hot and fast.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: April 22-26, 2024

by Community Contributor • April 26, 2024 • Comments Off

Beginning this week, fire managers from the Kaibab National Forest are planning to begin ignitions for prescribed fire treatments. Exact ignition dates are unknown at this time as burning is dependent upon daily weather conditions.

One treatment area includes the Tusayan Ranger District and the Blue Stem Rx, totaling 2,724 acres located east of Forest Road 311 and approximately 16 miles southeast of the Town of Tusayan. During this burn Russell Tank will be inaccessible and approximately 4.5 miles of the Arizona Trail will be rerouted.

For more information on this unit and the other treatment areas planned for this spring, please visit the Kaibab National Forest’s website.

Grand Canyon National Park — Preventive Search and Rescue program launches new HIKE SMART Film

by Community Contributor • April 23, 2024 • Comments Off

The Preventive Search and Rescue (PSAR) program at Grand Canyon National Park is pleased to announce the launch of its innovative HIKE SMART film project aimed at enhancing hiking safety awareness among visitors.

In response to evolving communication trends and the increasing influence of social media, PSAR managers recognized the need to update its messaging approach. With platforms like YouTube and social media shaping public discourse, staff developed an approach to the important PSAR message through an engaging video to effectively convey vital safety messages.

Traffic impacts anticipated on University Heights Drive North, Beulah Blvd and Lake Mary Road

by Community Contributor • April 19, 2024 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — Road closures and associated traffic control measures are scheduled in late April, May and June to accommodate utility work near University Heights Dr North, Beulah Blvd, and Lake Mary Rd. The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) will also implement traffic control measures for restrictions at the I-17 and Lake Mary Rd offramp. This work is related to the Home2 Suites and Tru by Hilton hotel development.

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