Flying J Project Planned This Week
Incident: Tusayan Ranger Dist Projects Prescribed Fire
Released: 9/27/2010
TUSAYAN, Ariz. - Fire managers plan to begin prescribed burning this week on the Flying J project on the Tusayan Ranger District. The 700-acre burn is south and west of Tusayan and Grand Canyon airport. Ignitions may begin Thursday, September 30 and continue through the end of the week.
Fire specialists have divided the Flying J project into separate blocks that may be ignited each day pending favorable conditions. Thursday, crews plan to ignite 49 acres in the middle of the unit. Officials will evaluate the weather, smoke production and dispersal before continuing with additional burning the following days.
Fire crews have been preparing for the burn by checking project boundaries, clearing containment lines, evaluating fuel moisture, considering current and predicted weather and scouting the unit. The burn will be implemented if the appropriate environmental conditions exist and Arizona Department of Environmental Quality approves the request.
Smoke may be present for several days after ignition. Prescribed burns are used to reduce hazardous fuels and produce healthier habitats. These projects will help to ensure that future fires in the area remain at a lower level of intensity, thereby providing protection for firefighters and communities. For more information, please contact Punky Moore (928-635-5653).
