Category: Public Safety

Grand Canyon National Park seeks public comment on the Grand Canyon Railway wooden ballast bridge

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GRAND CANYON — The National Park Service (NPS) is beginning a public review of a programmatic agreement to remove and replace the Grand Canyon Railway wooden ballast bridge at the South Rim in Grand Canyon National Park. Public comments will be accepted from Feb. 7 until midnight, March 7, 2024. 

The wooden ballast bridge, constructed in 1925-26, is in poor condition resulting in safety concerns. The bridge crosses over Bright Angel Wash, north of the historic Powerhouse building and Village Loop Bypass Road, in Grand Canyon Village. Trains cross daily over this bridge as they travel between Williams, Arizona, and Grand Canyon Village, providing the only train access into a United States national park. 

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Flood Control District Completes Phase II of the Park Way Sediment Basins

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COCONINO COUNTY — The Coconino County Flood Control District has delivered another substantial element of post-wildfire flood mitigation to Flagstaff’s Spruce Avenue Wash Flood Corridor/Museum Flood Area … with completion of the second and final phase of the Park Way Sediment Basins Project.

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Pile burns planned (for Jan. 31) on Coconino National Forest

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FLAGSTAFF — The Coconino National Forest will conduct pile burns in two different locations (for Jan. 31).

The Flagstaff Ranger District (FRD) will burn 1,320 acres of piles located at Willard Springs, 5 miles north of Munds Park.

Smoke impact is anticipated to be minimal but may briefly affect Interstate 17.

The Mogollon Rim Ranger District (MRRD) will burn 2 acres of piles located at Bly Pit, 14 miles northeast of Clints Well.

There are no anticipated road or trail closures due to any of the pile burn projects. Please refrain from calling dispatch lines if you see smoke from these pile burns so lines can remain open for any emergencies.

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Indigenous language interpreters needed for Coconino County courts

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COCONINO COUNTY — Are you a fluent speaker of an Indigenous language spoken in Coconino County?

The Criminal Justice Coordinating Council is recruiting Indigenous language interpreters for Coconino County courts!

If you are interested in developing skills for freelance court interpreting for these or other Indigenous Languages of Arizona, please contact the office of the court interpreter for more information.

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Pile burns planned around Coconino National Forest this week as winter weather continues

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FLAGSTAFF — Fire managers on the Coconino National Forest plan to take advantage of winter weather conditions by conducting pile burns on both the Flagstaff Ranger District (FRD) and Mogollon Rim Ranger District (MRRD) this week.

The FRD has multiple pile burn projects planned between Monday, Jan. 8 and Friday, Jan. 12.

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Coconino County Plows & Facilities Respond to First Snowstorms of 2024

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Coconino County is ready for the inaugural snowstorms of 2024, the first of which hit northern Arizona late Wednesday and is forecast to continue through Thursday.

Public Works crews have been working through the night to keep County roads open and passable during the storm and the Facilities Management team is preparing County buildings for cold and icy conditions. 

According to the National Weather Service a second, stronger snowstorm with higher snowfall accumulations is forecast for the region starting early Sunday.

This storm has already created hazardous travel conditions due to slick, snow covered roads and periods of reduced visibility. Mountain travel delays are expected, and motorists are advised to plan trips accordingly or delay travel if necessary. Very cold and potentially dangerous temperatures are forecast following this storm. 

For up-to-date regional weather information please visit www.weather.gov/fgz/WinterWeather. For updates on highway conditions please visit www.az511.gov. 

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City of Flagstaff — Be a Snow Hero this winter!

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FLAGSTAFF — As winter embraces Flagstaff, the City is introducing its new Snow Hero Program to increase safety and accessibility to our neighborhoods. The program assists Flagstaff community members in need of help clearing their sidewalks of snow and ice by matching them with a Snow Hero Participant. The City is looking for community members to serve as Snow Heroes this winter.

The Snow Hero Program is a community-driven effort to support sidewalk snow and ice clearing throughout Flagstaff. As a Snow Hero, you will be matched with a nearby neighbor who has registered for assistance. Your role will be to clear snow and ice from the sidewalk(s) adjacent to their property within 48 hours following a snow event.

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Crews begin winter pile burning on the Kaibab NF

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WILLIAMS — Fire managers will be conducting prescribed pile burns throughout the winter season as conditions safely allow. Winter is often the ideal time for crews to burn piles of slash and woody debris left over from forest thinning projects because colder temperatures and snow help moderate fire behavior and keep it from spreading beyond the piles. Approximately 5,000 acres of piles on the Tusayan and Williams ranger districts and 2,500 acres of piles on the North Kaibab Ranger District are slated for burning this season.

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April 1 — City of Flagstaff to host Spruce Wash Community Meeting

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FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff invites residents impacted by post-wildfire flooding in the Spruce Wash/ Museum Flood Area to a community meeting on Monday, April 1 from 5:30 – 7:00 p.m. at Flagstaff City Hall (211 W Aspen Ave). During the meeting, City staff will discuss ongoing infrastructure projects, preparations for monsoon season and answer questions from residents.  

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April 4 — City of Flagstaff to hold public meeting for Lone Tree Improvements

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FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff will hold a public meeting for Lone Tree Improvements from 5:30 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 4, 2024, in Flagstaff City Hall at 211 W. Aspen Ave. A presentation will be given at 5:45 p.m. The purpose of the meeting is to share project designs, describe construction phasing and traffic impacts, and introduce the contractor.

Improvements to the Lone Tree corridor include the construction of a new overpass that will extend Lone Tree Road between Butler Avenue to the south and Route 66 to the north. Other improvements include a new intersection at Lone Tree Road and Route 66, bicycle lanes, trails, landscaping and modifications to existing intersections.

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April 23 — Flagstaff City Council meeting discussion to include potential relocation of concrete plant in Southside

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The City of Flagstaff has been working to relocate Arizona Materials (the concrete plant at 633 E. Brannen Ave) to allow for the construction of the Lone Tree Overpass Project and the Rio de Flag Flood Control Project. Arizona Materials is seeking City support to move to 840 E Butler Ave across from Whole Foods Market, which is located in the “Live/Make Center” as designated in the Southside Community Specific Plan.

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April 27 — Properly dispose of batteries, lightbulbs, medications and more at Drop-off Day in Flagstaff

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We are excited to partner with the Flagstaff Hazardous Products Center, Coconino County, Flagstaff Police Department, Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), Ponderosa Medical Waste Services, Elevated Shredding, and Westech Recyclers to put your waste in the right place.

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May 23 — Registration has begun for inaugural Northern Arizona Anti-Hunger Summit in Flagstaff

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The Northern Arizona Anti-Hunger Summit (NAAHS) will explore human-food relationships and how northern Arizona’s systems impact this connection. The summit will explore the diversity in food system histories, challenges, diets, cultures, and food justice solutions.

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Nov. 21 — Native American Heritage Month viewing of episode — ‘Out There: Crimes of the Paranormal, the Shape-Shifting Defense’ at the Flagstaff Aquaplex

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FLAGSTAFF — In recognition of November as Native American Heritage Month, the City of Flagstaff and the the Office of Indigenous Initiatives will present a viewing of “Out There: Crimes of the Paranormal, the Shape-Shifting Defense,” at noon Thursday, Nov. 21 at the Flagstaff Aquaplex.

The episode features the murder of Sarah Saganitso, Navajo, in Flagstaff and reveals a continued fight for justice for Missing & Murdered Indigenous People.

We will have a family member of the late Ms. Saganitso and support relatives who will be available for Q & A.

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City of Flagstaff awarded $9.6M grant for Butler Avenue Complete Streets Conversion

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FLAGSTAFF —The City of Flagstaff has been awarded $9.6M from the United States Department of Transportation to implement the Butler Avenue Complete Streets Conversion. The City will convert 0.9 miles of arterial road in the urban center of Flagstaff to a Complete Street. The project includes installing bike lanes that are grade-separated from motor vehicle traffic; three protected intersections; a new pedestrian crossing; upgrades to an existing pedestrian crossing; and pedestrian comfort features, such as landscape buffers, that also result in reducing speeds through the historic Southside Neighborhood in the core of Flagstaff.

Flagstaff Mayor Becky Daggett said “Safe streets for all is our goal and this grant will put our pedestrian and bike designs for Butler Avenue into action. Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Flagstaff has received $58M to date and residents and visitors alike will get to enjoy transportation and infrastructure projects designed to make moving around town on foot, bike, bus, and car easier and more convenient. Thanks to Arizona’s Senators Kelly and Sinema for their part in making this happen.”

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City of Flagstaff seeking snow equipment operators

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FLAGSTAFF — Interested in a part-time schedule and the exciting opportunity to take part in winter snow operations? Join our Public Works team as a temporary Snow Operations – Equipment Operator today!

To apply, visit http://www.governmentjobs.com/…/snow-operations-temp…

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Flagstaff community input needed – Take the Community Rail Safety survey today!

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FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff is asking community members to take its Community Rail Safety Survey to provide input on rail safety. Questions include preferred solutions to reduce risk at roadway rail crossings as well as preferred educational and enforcement solutions to improve safety. To take the survey, visit surveymonkey.com/r/COFDMWeb.

The City of Flagstaff and BNSF are partnering to develop a Community Rail Safety Plan in conjunction with design and construction of several large civil works projects along the Flagstaff rail corridor (comprising the Lone Tree Overpass and Downtown Mile projects). This plan will help address areas of risk and identify mitigations to improve safety throughout Flagstaff.

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Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Dec. 11-15, 2023

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Portions of the North Kaibab trail, between Manzanita and Supai Tunnel, will be closed beginning at sunrise on Monday, December 18 and ending at sunset on Sunday, December 24. Closures will be in effect from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. to allow for contractors to install seismic survey nodes in Roaring Springs Canyon.

Work crews will be installing survey nodes in highly technical terrain above the trail, which may result in inadvertent and unpredictable rock fall onto the North Kaibab Trail. These survey nodes are small, wireless sensors that will be able to detect and record seismic activity in the area.

For the latest trail updates, please visit the park’s Critical Backcountry Updates page.

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County Plows & Facilities Ready for Season’s First Snow

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COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County is ready for the first snowstorm of the 2023-2024 winter season, which is forecast to hit Northern Arizona late Wednesday and continue into Saturday.

Public Works crews are geared up to keep County roads open and passable during the storm and the Facilities Management Department is preparing County buildings for cold and icy conditions. 

The National Weather Service in Bellemont has issued a Winter Weather Advisory beginning Thursday at 5 p.m. through 5 a.m. Saturday. According to the advisory, total snow accumulations between 2 and 8 inches are expected, with snow falling as low as 5000’ and hazardous impacts occurring above 7000’. 

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Final Public Notice – Museum Fire Post-Fire Flood Mitigation Cedar Avenue

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FLAGSTAFF — The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) proposes to provide federal financial assistance under the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) to the City of Flagstaff (sub-applicant), located in Coconino County, Arizona, to upgrade an existing concrete box culvert (proposed action). Pursuant to Executive Order 11988 (Floodplain Management), Executive Order 11990 (Protection of Wetlands), and FEMA’s implementing regulations at Title 44 of the Code of Federal Regulations Part 9, FEMA hereby provides interested parties with a notice of its final decision and an explanation of the alternatives that were considered.

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Coconino NF accepting applicants for 2024 Women in Wildfire Boot Camp

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FLAGSTAFF — The Coconino National Forest will host a Women in Wildland Fire boot camp in April of 2024 for individuals interested in exploring a career in wildfire and is currently accepting applications.

Boot camp participants will gain a greater understanding of the challenges and responsibilities of wildland firefighting through sessions conducted both in the classroom and in the field.

Class work will consist of online training modules, where participants will learn about wildland firefighting strategy and safety.

During field training, participants will follow guidelines set by the National Wildfire Coordinating Group to explore firefighting as a career in a hands-on way.

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Coconino County Seeks Applicants for Commission on Trial Court Appointments

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The Commission on Trial Court Appointment Nominating Committee for Coconino County Supervisorial District 2 is seeking non-attorney applicants for the Trial Court Commission.

For more than 40 years Arizona citizens have benefited from a judicial merit selection and retention system. Merit selection is a way of choosing judges that uses nonpartisan commissions to investigate and evaluate applicants for judgeships. The commissions then submit the names of at least three highly qualified applicants to the Governor. The Governor appoints appellate court judges statewide and trial court judges in Coconino, Maricopa, Pima, and Pinal counties from lists of nominees submitted by the judicial nominating commissions. 

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Coconino County Emergency Management Assists the State of Hawaii Response to Maui Wildfires

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Coconino County Emergency Management recently assisted the State of Hawaii in response to the August wildfires on the island of Maui.

As a result of the devastating wildfires that impacted Lahaina and Upper Kula on Maui, officials in Hawaii have been coordinating response and recovery efforts with local and federal partners. Through this coordination, Hawaii activated the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC). EMAC is an all-hazards, all disciplines mutual aid compact that allows states to share resources and provide assistance to one another during times of disaster. 

As a signatory to EMAC, the State of Arizona received requests from the State of Hawaii for trained subject matter experts to assist with disaster operations.

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Prescribed burn on Observatory Mesa planned for Nov. 15

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FLAGSTAFF — A prescribed burn will be conducted by the Flagstaff Fire Department on Observatory Mesa on Wednesday, Nov. 15. The burn will target approximately 168 acres. Resources on scene will include two type 6 engines, one type 3 engine, two utility task vehicles with water pumps, the Bear Jaw Wildland Crew and the Flagstaff Fire Department Wildland Crew.

Residents and visitors can expect smoke to be visible in the area. Smoke is expected to drift in a north/ northeast direction during the day over the Coconino Estates neighborhood and the area north of the hospital. At night, smoke is expected to settle in and around Thorpe Park. The Observatory Mesa FUTS trail will be closed between Road 515 and Road 515A. Recreators should avoid the area.

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Maid Fire currently 942 acres, 55% contained

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FLAGSTAFF  — Firefighters continue to work on containing the Maid Fire on Apache Maid mountain just southeast of Interstate 17’s Stoneman Lake exit and are hopeful to reach full containment within the next several days.

The Maid Fire is currently 55% contained on the northern and eastern flanks of Apache Maid mountain, and firefighters continue to work on containing the western and southern sides of the 942-acre wildfire.

Firefighters are utilizing a full suppression strategy, and all burnout operations have been completed. As containment increases, resources will move to a monitor and patrol status in the coming days.

Fire behavior has largely been moderate but continues to smolder in remaining heavy dead and down fuels, and limited pockets of leaf litter. Occasional increases in intensity are observed as the fire creeps into available fuels.

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Prescribed burn project cancelled (Nov. 8) due to unfavorable conditions

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FLAGSTAFF — Mogollon Rim Ranger District fire managers have cancelled today’s Sawmill Project southwest of Mormon Lake due to unfavorable wind conditions that would negatively impact powerlines, the highway, and surrounding communities.

The 3,000-acre Sawmill project was originally scheduled to be completed over the course of the week from Nov. 6-9 but was modified to focus attention on a smaller 1,000-acre section today as winds and conditions were forecasted to keep smoke away from powerlines and surrounding communities. With the change in today’s conditions, this project will be postponed till a later date when conditions are more appropriate.

The Forest Service’s 10-year Wildfire Crisis Strategy aims to increase prescribed fire and other treatments across the landscape to improve forest resiliency for generations to come.

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City of Flagstaff announces Winter parking restrictions begin Nov. 1

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FLAGSTAFF — Winter parking restrictions will begin on Nov. 1 and will remain in effect until April 1. During this time, parking on city streets and alleyways is prohibited from midnight to 7 a.m.Winter parking restrictions allow the City to thoroughly plow the streets during snow events and remains in effect even if it is not snowing to aid in street sweeping.

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Coconino NF prescribed fire outlook: Week of Oct. 30

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When: Oct. 31 or Nov. 1
Where: Along Fort Valley Road 1 mile west of Basecamp at Snowbowl
Why: As part of a Northern Arizona University project to burn a small piece of land on a five-year rotation to further study prescribed fire. This area was last burned in the fall of 2018.
Size: 3 acres
Method/ type of burn: Broadcast and maintenance
Duration: 1 day
Smoke impacts: Light smoke impacts may be felt on Highway 180.
Closures/ restrictions: None

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City of Flagstaff — Scheduled lane closures on Butler Avenue beginning Oct. 30

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FLAGSTAFF — Lane closures on W Butler Avenue are scheduled to begin on Monday, Oct. 30 to accommodate the installation of underground fiber-optic cable. Lane closures of the right/ westbound lane of Butler Avenue will be implemented from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. for a period of approximately two weeks.

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Prescribed fire project northwest of San Franscisco Peaks postponed until Friday

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FLAGSTAFF — Flagstaff Ranger District (FRD) fire managers have temporarily paused firing operations on the Horseshoe Project, located 5 miles directly north of Bellemont, today due to higher-than-expected humidity levels.

Wednesday’s firing operations successfully treated 768 acres of land. Operations that had been tentatively scheduled for today have been postponed to tomorrow.

“Prescribed fire operations are both an art and a science,” said Burn Boss Ryan Rawlinson, FRD Fuels Assistant Fire Management Officer. “We have to have the right temperature, humidity, wind speed and direction, staffing levels and fuel moisture. Anything less than perfect isn’t enough for us to proceed.”

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Willard Springs Green Waste Site to Close for Winter on Oct.28

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COCONINO COUNTY — The last day of 2023 operations for the Willard Springs Green Waste Site will be this Saturday, Oct. 28.

Willard Springs will be closed throughout the upcoming Winter season, which runs each year between November 1 and March 31, so that Coconino County can reopen the station for green waste-only disposal on Friday, April 5, 2024. It will then be open for the summer season on Fridays and Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. until Saturday, Oct. 26, 2024.

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Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Oct. 16-20, 2023

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North Rim Atoko Point prescribed fire

If you were near the rim or in the canyon this week, you probably noticed smoke on the North Rim and below the rim.

This is a prescribed burn in the Atoko Point unit, which is on the eastern edge of the Walhalla Plateau. Park fire staff are working with the Kaibab National Forest and the Bureau of Land Management to treat this unit and others, for a total of about 1,700 acres. They plan to continue burning through October 31.

Smoke impacts are anticipated along Cape Royal Road, the North Rim developed area, and the inner canyon from Bright Angel Point to Clear Creek. Fire plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of the land, and prescribed burns are carefully planned and only initiated under very specific conditions.

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Prescribed fire projects continuing on Coconino NF throughout week

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FLAGSTAFF — Prescribed fire projects will continue on all three districts of the Coconino National Forest throughout the rest of the week.

Prescribed fire projects are an important part of landscape restoration work being conducted in accordance with the Forest Service’s 10-year Wildfire Crisis Strategy, which aims to improve forest resiliency and reduce the risk of high-intensity wildfire in northern Arizona.

Prescribed fire projects are conditional and subject to change if wind and weather conditions are not met.

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Prescribed burn near Naval Observatory planned for Wednesday, Oct. 18

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FLAGSTAFF — A prescribed burn will be conducted by the Flagstaff Fire Department near the Naval Observatory on Wednesday, Oct. 18. The burn will target approximately 80 aces on the northern side of the observatory area. Resources on scene will include the City Wildland Fire Management Module, two Type 6 wildland engines, one US Forest Service wildland engine, the Highlands Fire Department Bear Jaw Crew, and the Arizona State Wildland Crew.

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Prescribed fire planned for North Rim of Grand Canyon beginning Oct. 16

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GRAND CANYON, Ariz. — Grand Canyon National Park fire managers—working with  staff from the Kaibab National Forest and Bureau of Land Management, anticipate initiating prescribed fire treatments from October 16-31, on the North Rim, as weather and fuel moisture conditions allow. 

On Thursday, Oct. 16, ignitions will occur on the Atoko Point unit, located on the far eastern edge of the Walhalla Plateau. The north and east boundary consist of the canyon rim edges and encompass Roosevelt Point, Atoko Point, and Naji Point. The southern boundary will be ~300ft of handline where the plateau necks down tightly between Cape Royal Rd. and canyon rim edge. The western edge is bound by the Cape Royal Road from Roosevelt Point to the handline segment. This project totals an area of 1,700 acres and is anticipated to conclude on or around Tuesday, Oct. 31.  

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Firing operations on Still Fire resuming along Highway 87

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HAPPY JACK — Still Fire managers plan to resume firing operations Thursday and Friday along Highway 87 following several days of preparations during scattered showers and higher humidities.

Fire managers plan to use strategic firing operations to increase containment and protect values at risk. The Still Fire is located 4 miles northeast of the Highway 87 and Lake Mary Road junction on the Coconino National Forest’s Mogollon Rim Ranger District (MRRD).

Once firing operations resume, local areas – including Highway 87, the Blue Ridge communities and the Little Springs area – will see heavy smoke impact.

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Still Fire at 9,101 acres, firing operations on hold

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HAPPY JACK — Fire managers are pausing firing operations on the Still Fire for the next several days due to predicted rain and humidity but are hoping to resume those operations later this week when weather conditions allow.

The Still Fire is a lightning-caused wildfire located 4 miles northeast of the Highway 87 and Lake Mary Road junction on the Coconino National Forest’s Mogollon Rim Ranger District (MRRD).

During the pause on firing operations, crews will continue to hold existing line while also preparing the fire area – including areas along Highway 87 – for firing operations.

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Cecil Fire containment at 67%; area closure removed

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FLAGSTAFF — Containment on the 2,180-acre lightning-caused Cecil Fire, located southwest of Flagstaff, is at 67% following yesterday’s containment and suppression repair efforts.

The Coconino National Forest has removed the emergency area closure for the Cecil Fire.

The Type 3 Incident Management Team that has been managing this fire since Sept. 28 will return the fire back to the Coconino NF this evening.

Forty-two personnel remain assigned to the Cecil Fire, including one 20-person crew, three engines and miscellaneous overhead.

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Crews continue Cecil Fire prep work in anticipation of resuming burning operations this week. Public meeting on Oct. 2

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FLAGSTAFF — The slight rain that fell on the Cecil Fire yesterday morning helped keep the lightning-caused Cecil Fire, located southwest of Flagstaff, at 2,180 acres as of Monday morning.

The Cecil Fire is burning on both Coconino National Forest and Arizona State Trust lands, and a closure order has been issued for the fire area.

Resources assigned to the Cecil Fire include one Hotshot crew, two hand crews, 10 engines, a dozer, a water tender and miscellaneous overhead for a total of 112 personnel.

This week’s weather forecast looks favorable to possibly resume firing operations. In addition to holding existing lines, crews plan to spend today prepping lines for potential firing operations north of Black Pass on the north side of the fire, off Woody Ridge toward Forest Road (FR) 532B on the east side of the fire, and from Woody Ridge to just south of Eightynine A Tank.

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Firing operations paused on Cecil, Still fires in advance of weekend winds

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FLAGSTAFF — Firefighters are halting firing operations on both the Cecil and Still fires in advance of forecast increased wind speeds.

Both fires have been staffed with additional firefighters who plan to spend the weekend holding and securing existing fire line.

So far, crews have successfully treated a combined 2,500 acres of Coconino National Forest land on both the Flagstaff Ranger District and the Mogollon Rim Ranger District due to both lightning-caused fires.

Land treatment removes fuels – such as dead trees and pine needle accumulation – from the forest floor to reduce the risk of high-intensity wildfire.

Both the Cecil and Still fires are being managed to reduce those hazardous fuels and improve forest health as guided by Forest Service’s 10-year Wildfire Crisis Strategy.

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Firing operations continue on Cecil Fire; beginning on Still Fire

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FLAGSTAFF — Following a day of successful management actions on the Cecil Fire, located southwest of Flagstaff, crews plan to continue firing operations on the Cecil while also beginning firing operations on the Still Fire, located on the Coconino National Forest’s Mogollon Rim Ranger District.

Both the Cecil and Still fires are lightning-caused wildfires being managed to reduce hazardous fuels and improve forest health as guided by Forest Service’s 10-year Wildfire Crisis Strategy.

Due to the accumulated fuels in the fire areas, both wildfires will generate significant smoke during planned firing operations.

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Coconino NF begins management of two lightning-caused beneficial wildfires on Flagstaff and Mogollon Rim ranger districts

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FLAGSTAFF — The Coconino National Forest is responding to two separate lightning-caused wildfires: the Cecil Fire, located on the Flagstaff Ranger District, and the Still Fire, located on the Mogollon Rim Ranger District.

The Coconino NF often strategically manages lightning-caused wildfires to benefit the overall health of the fire-adapted forest and plans to use the natural ignitions of both the Cecil and Still fires in this manner.

Wildfires are a natural part of the Coconino NF’s ecosystem, and when managed diligently and properly following the requisite planning process, improve the landscape long-term in several ways.

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Prescribed burns planned within Flagstaff City limits this fall

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FLAGSTAFF — Prescribed burns will be conducted by the Flagstaff Fire Department on City-owned parcels within City limits this fall. While exact dates of the prescribed burns are weather-specific and cannot be established far in advance, these prescribed burns are generally anticipated to take place from mid-September to mid-November. More information on locations and dates will be shared on flagstaff.az.gov as dates become available.

Residents and visitors can expect smoke to be present in the area of prescribed burns. Fire managers will coordinate with neighboring national forests, national parks, fire districts, and the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality to monitor smoke impacts.

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City begins Schultz Creek Channel Stabilization Project

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FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff is pleased to announce the groundbreaking of the Schultz Creek Channel Stabilization Project between Elden Lookout Road and Highway 180. This stream restoration project will stabilize and restore the Schultz Creek channel, which was severely degraded during the 2022 Pipeline Fire and subsequent flooding events.

Channel stabilization restores the stream bank and bed, preventing erosion from moving sediment and debris into the Rio de Flag and Frances Short Pond. Frances Short Pond received over 5,000 cubic yards of ash, sediment, and debris since the Pipeline Fire, requiring a complete dredge and repair this year. The Schultz Creek Channel Stabilization Project will reduce the risk of further repairs at the pond and will also help to keep stormwater infrastructure clear and flowing.

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Flooding Impacts Communities of Tusayan and Grand Canyon Village

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TUSAYAN — A significant rainfall event has impacted the Coconino Wash east of the Town of Tusayan, just south of the entrance to Grand Canyon National Park.

Due to a reported two to three inches of rainfall in a short amount of time this afternoon, water up to three feet in depth has reached State Route 64 and most of the gateway community. 

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Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-Up Week of Aug. 14

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Kane Fire wrapping up

The Kane Fire, located about 13 miles southeast of Jacob Lake on the North Kaibab Ranger District of the Kaibab National Forest, is currently about 2,854 acres and 84 percent contained.

The fire was detected on August 3 after a lightning storm, and fire managers immediately implemented a full suppression strategy. Ensuing precipitation over the next several days curtailed fire activity considerably, and a Type 3 team took over on Tuesday, August 15.

Current and expected fire activity is minimal, and crews are now focused on cleanup and suppression repair.

In the interest of public safety, a portion of the Kaibab Plateau area east of Highway 67 leading to the North Rim will remain closed. Highway 67 is open.

You can visit the Kaibab National Forest website or Facebook page, or InciWeb for more information.

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NAU conducting bilingual survey on wildfire, post-fire flooding information

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FLAGSTAFF — Northern Arizona University is conducting  a study to better understand the Greater Flagstaff-area residents’ experiences and opinions of wildfire and/or post-fire flooding information. We are trying to reach as many community members as possible to understand similarities and differences experienced by different neighborhoods, demographics, and home ownerships (e.g., renter, homeowner) to inform future wildfire and flooding information and serve the diversity of people who live in the Flagstaff area.

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Staging to begin at the ‘wedge’ for Spruce Wash Improvements flood mitigation projects

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FLAGSTAFF — In preparation for the construction of the Spruce Wash Improvements flood mitigation projects, during the week of August 14 crews will begin clearing trees and vegetation in a portion of the area known as the “wedge”. The “wedge” is the City-owned, triangle-shaped parcel bound by N West St, E Linda Vista Dr and E Cedar Ave. Crews will only be removing trees in an area within the footprint of the future Wedge Detention Basin project.

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Coconino County Flood Control District Reports Successful Performance of Flood Mitigation

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COCONINO COUNTY — The Coconino County Flood Control District (District) recently completed upwards of $35 million in on-forest watershed restoration and neighborhood flood mitigation in five flood corridors including Phase 1 of the Schultz Creek on-forest measures.

The Wupatki Trails and Brandis Way watersheds experienced 100-year rainfall events today, July 30, with a total of three inches of rainfall in two hours, with most of the rainfall concentrated in the first hour. The District is pleased to report this evening the recently completed measures both on- and off-forest performed exceptionally well with no flood impacts to roads or private property in those areas. 

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Heavy rains, flash flooding expected in Northern Arizona starting Sunday, July 30

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By Coconino County

Check for a monsoon update from the US National Weather Service Flagstaff Arizona.

It looks like we may be in store for some rain soon! Visit Http://www.ready.gov/plan to learn how to make a plan in case of flooding or other emergency events. Sign up for emergency notifications from Coconino County at http://www.coconino.az.gov/ready.

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Board of Supervisors to Vote on County Short-Term Rental Ordinance at August 8 Public Hearing

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COCONINO COUNTY — The Coconino County Board of Supervisors (Board) will hold a third public hearing followed by a vote on the final draft of a County-wide ordinance aimed at regulating the operation of short-term rental properties in unincorporated neighborhoods.

At their upcoming meeting August 8, 2023 the Coconino County Board of Supervisors (Board) will hold a third public hearing followed by a vote on the final draft of a County-wide ordinance aimed at regulating the operation of short-term rental properties in unincorporated neighborhoods of Coconino County. If approved by the Board, it will soon be unlawful to rent, or to offer to rent, a vacation or short-term rental property without first complying with the provisions of the ordinance. The purpose of this ordinance will be to protect the public health, safety, and welfare of owners and users of vacation and short-term rental properties in the unincorporated area of the County, and to protect the residential character of neighborhoods and surroundings that are adjacent to vacation and short-term rental use.

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Coconino County and City of Flagstaff Successfully Test Siren System Enhancements

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COCONINO COUNTY — Recently, Coconino County and the City of Flagstaff completed a successful test of the flash flooding siren system along Spruce Wash. This test ensured that critical system enhancements functioned properly prior to the 2023 monsoon season.

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Lake Mary Road Mill & Fill Project Starts Monday

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COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County’s contractor is preparing to break ground on the Lake Mary Road Mill & Fill Project.

This $1.95 million project will replace the existing pavement in travel lanes along the 6.4-mile stretch of Lake Mary Road from the Flagstaff city limits south to approximately Milepost (MP) 333, which is just north of the Upper Lake Mary boat dock and recreation area.

C & E Paving & Grading is scheduled to work weekdays during daylight hours with some weekend work possible. Traffic control will be in place to guide vehicles through the construction zone.

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Coconino National Forest and City of Flagstaff to partner on Inner Basin water pipeline repair

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FLAGSTAFF — The Coconino National Forest’s Flagstaff Ranger District and the City of Flagstaff will both soon begin repairing flood damage to the Inner Basin water pipeline and along nearby forest roads.

The pipeline, which was damaged due to post-wildfire flooding caused by the 2022 Pipeline Fire, has been losing millions of gallons of water each day.

The project – formally titled the Inner Basin Waterline Post Fire Repairs Road Reconstruction Project – is outlined in a decision memo that was recently signed into effect by Coconino NF Supervisor Aaron Mayville.

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Bilingual report — Stage 1 Fire Restrictions to Begin Thursday in Coconino County

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COCONINO COUNTY — Stage 1 Fire Restrictions will begin Thursday, June 29, 2023 at 8:00 a.m. in all unincorporated areas of Coconino County.

With the potential for continued warm, dry, and windy conditions throughout Northern Arizona in the coming days, both the Coconino National Forest and the Kaibab National Forest – Williams Ranger District will begin Stage 1 Fire Restrictions this Thursday, June 29, 2023 at 8:00 a.m. The Coconino County Board of Supervisors (Board) and County Manager’s Office have directed Emergency Management (CCEM) to do likewise in all unincorporated areas of the County.  

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City of Flagstaff announces Stage 1 Fire Restrictions on June 29

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The City of Flagstaff will enter Stage 1 Fire Restrictions at 8 a.m. on Thursday, June 29, 2023. 

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.

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Coconino County Jury Commissioner Warns Residents of New Jury Scam

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COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County Clerk of the Superior Court and Jury Commissioner Valerie Wyant has recently received reports from concerned residents regarding phone scams where they were contacted by an individual impersonating the Jury Commissioner and asking for personal information in an aggressive manner. 
 
This person has been reported as using aggressive and threatening language, attempting to confirm personal information (addresses, phone numbers, date of birth, and email addresses), and informing citizens a warrant has been issued for their arrest.

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Chip sealing to begin June 13 at various locations in Flagstaff

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Beginning on June 13, the City of Flagstaff will begin sealing recently paved roadway segments at various locations throughout the community. The project will chip seal roadways including High Country Trail, Blackbird Roost, Riordan Road, Grandview Drive, Walgreens Street, McCracken Circle, Steve’s Blvd, Gemini Road, Latrobe Circle, La Costa Lane, La Quinta Way, and Harris Way and is anticipated to conclude by June 20, weather permitting.

The public should anticipate traffic impacts near these locations for the duration of the work, including temporary traffic restrictions, noise, and dust. The City will attempt to maintain access to businesses and residences.

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