COCONINO COUNTY — The U.S. Forest Service (USFS) has ignited the annual green waste burn at the Willard Springs Green Waste Site, which is located about 15 miles south of Flagstaff at Exit 326 on the west side of I-17.
The burn is necessary to reduce the existing stockpile of pine needles, tree trimmings, and other green waste at Willard Springs before the start of the 2025 fire season.
The Willard Springs green waste burn is expected to produce smoke during its ignition period. Based on wind and weather conditions, this 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.