Staff Reports
MOUNT GRAHAM — The Safford Ranger District of the Coronado National Forest began igniting hand-built burn piles across the summit of Mount Graham this week as part of an ongoing effort to lower wildfire danger and safeguard critical habitats.
The prescribed fire project, which started Monday, Dec. 1, and is expected to continue through the week weather permitting, covers approximately 600 acres of scattered pile units stretching from Riggs Lake to the Angle Orchard area in the Pinaleño Mountains.
“This project is an ongoing effort to reduce the amount of hazardous fuels in and around infrastructure and critical habitats for threatened and endangered species,” Forest Service officials said in a statement.
Crews are targeting accumulated woody debris and dead vegetation that has built up from previous forest-thinning operations. By removing these fuels in a controlled setting during cooler, moister conditions, managers aim to lessen the risk of high-intensity wildfires that could threaten nearby communities, summer homes, and sensitive wildlife areas, including habitat for the endangered Mount Graham red squirrel.
All forest roads and trails, including the Swift Trail (Arizona Highway 366), will remain open during operations. However, officials are urging the public to avoid active burn areas for safety. Motorists may encounter minor smoke impacts near the Turkey Flat summer-home area. Drivers are advised to slow down, turn on headlights, and watch for fire personnel and equipment when smoke is present.
Smoke may be visible from Safford, Thatcher, and surrounding communities, particularly in the mornings and evenings. Residents concerned about air quality can monitor conditions through the AirNow website (airnow.gov) or the free AirNow mobile app.
Forest Service fire managers emphasize that all burns are conducted only when weather, fuel moisture, and air-quality conditions align with prescribed parameters to ensure smoke dispersal and firefighter safety.
For the latest updates on the Mount Graham prescribed fire project, visitors can contact the Safford Ranger District at (928) 428-4150.
