Coconino, Kaibab forests to close indefinitely while fire risk is high

PHOENIX – In response to an elevated fire risk caused by dry conditions, officials announced an indefinite full closure of the Coconino and Kaibab forests starting Wednesday.

The closure for Coconino National Forest will begin at 8 a.m. and remain in effect until the area sees enough rain to reduce the threat, the Forest Service said Monday.

Coconino NF going into full closure Wednesday. More details at https://t.co/3IgEZA6ZZW #coconinonationalforest #azforestclosures @SedonaFD @CoconinoCounty @CoconinoSheriff @coconinoem @YavapaiSheriff @yavapaicounty pic.twitter.com/1DvgxlKdiQ

— Coconino NF (@CoconinoNF) June 21, 2021

The public won’t be allowed on any part of Coconino National Forest during the closure.

Kaibab National Forest will have similar restrictions, closing Wednesday at 8 a.m. with no public allowed on the forest at any time until the closure is lifted.

The Forest Service is asking all campers already there in both places to leave by Wednesday morning and for anybody making plans for the areas to hold off for at least several weeks.

Individuals caught violating closures or fire restrictions are subject to a fine of up to $5,000 and up to six months in prison, according to the Forest Service.

There were multiple active wildfires burning in Coconino National Forest on Monday, including portions of the Backbone and Rafael fires.

The 2,812-square-mile forest, a popular area for camping, hiking, boating and fishing, has only partially closed in recent years because of wildfire danger, but officials are concerned about resources running low.

“We have limited resources, and we’re tapped right now,” Coconino National Forest spokesman Brady Smith said.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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