Staff Reports
SAN CARLOS APACHE RESERVATION – Two lightning-caused wildfires, the Goodwin Fire and the Bronco Fire, are burning through rugged terrain on the San Carlos Apache Reservation, challenging firefighting efforts with extreme heat, hazardous air quality, and limited access to the fire zones. Both fires remain at 0% containment, prompting heightened fire restrictions and public safety measures.
Goodwin Fire: Rugged terrain and active spread
The Goodwin Fire, ignited by lightning on Aug. 6, has consumed 400 acres southeast of Mount Turnbull near White Springs. Under the command of Incident Commander Charles Patterson Jr., the fire is burning through brush, pinion pine, grass, and chaparral in steep, inaccessible terrain. The fire is actively backing on its east and west flanks while moving gradually southwest, reaching Goodwin Wash to the north. A Lat drop (fire retardant) has been deployed on the western side to slow its advance.
Firefighting resources include Engine 5861, with additional support ordered: one REMS team, two Type 2 crews, two water tenders, four Type 1 hotshot crews, and two Type 1 helicopters. However, the rugged landscape complicates access, placing high demand on resources.
Weather and Air Quality Concerns: An extreme heat warning is in effect until 8 p.m. today, with temperatures reaching 110°F and west-southwest winds of 5-10 mph, with gusts up to 20 mph. Widespread haze is expected before noon, followed by areas of smoke from noon to 2 p.m. An Air Quality Index (AQI) advisory, in the ORANGE and RED categories (70-150 range), affects San Carlos, Peridot, and Bylas. Residents with respiratory issues are urged to wear masks if outdoors and limit exposure to 4-5 hours. Elders and those with health conditions should remain indoors, and schools are advised to restrict outdoor activities for children due to the combined risks of smoke and extreme heat.
Bronco Fire: Rapid growth and intense fire behavior
The Bronco Fire, reported on Aug. 3, has grown to 6,271 acres, located 30 miles northeast of San Carlos near Phillips Park Tank and the Hilltop unit. Fueled by brush, juniper, grass, and chaparral, the fire exhibits extreme behavior, including crowning, wind-driven runs, and long-range spotting. With 90 personnel assigned, the strategy is complete suppression, but hot, dry conditions have driven aggressive fire activity across multiple divisions.
Yesterday, crews secured a 40-50-acre slopeover near Phillips Park Tank and continued scouting along Forest Roads 1100 and 1400 to identify containment opportunities. Dozer operations are linking road systems to create control lines, while firefighters prepare for potential strategic firing along Forest Road 1426 to limit further spread. Aerial resources are limited but are supporting ground efforts when available.
Weather and Safety: Extreme fire weather persists, with temperatures in the upper 90s and an extreme heat warning in effect until 8 p.m. The public is urged to avoid the fire area, and a strict reminder has been issued: “If you fly, we can’t!” Unmanned drones risk grounding critical air operations.
Fire restrictions and closures
Both fires have prompted Stage 3 fire restrictions across the San Carlos Apache Reservation. Campfires, charcoal fires, and any open flames are prohibited. Higher elevation areas, including Route 8, Point of Pines, Drylake, Malay, Hilltop, and Seneca, are closed to the public. For further information, contact the Forestry front office at (928) 475-2326, ext. 301 for the Goodwin Fire or ext. 352/321 for the Bronco Fire.
Community impact and outlook
The combination of extreme heat, hazardous air quality, and active fire behavior poses significant challenges for firefighters and residents. The San Carlos Apache Reservation is taking aggressive measures to protect public health and safety while battling these wildfires. Community members are urged to stay informed, follow safety advisories, and avoid restricted areas as firefighting efforts continue.
For updates, contact the San Carlos Apache Forestry Department or monitor local advisories.
