Pile burnings in Kaibab National Forest to commence throughout January

PHOENIX — Prescribed debris burnings will take place along the south zone of the Kaibab National Forest in northern Arizona throughout January, the U.S. Forest Service announced in a press release.

Approximately 1,100 acres of piles of woody debris left over from forest restoration projects are set to be burned south of Williams, plus an additional 500 acres on the Tusayan Ranger District.

Operations began near the peak of Bill Williams Mountain on Monday followed by the south side of the mountain on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Smoke will likely be visible from Williams and surrounding areas, including Perkinsville Road and Interstate-40, according to the release.

The amount of smoke produced is expected to be minimal after the first few hours, according to the release.

Unnaturally dense forests can cause severe wildfires due to dead wood buildup.

Low-intensity fires are set off to help prevent major wildfires and restore a more natural forest structure, according to the Forest Service’s website.

The winter weather and snow provide an ideal environment to conduct these procedures each year, according to the Forest Service.

Forest visitors are asked to avoid hot areas and drivers are warned to proceed with caution when passing through.

All prescribed Kaibab National Forest burnings need approval by the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality.

Related

Grand Canyon among national parks to offer 5 free-entry days in 2022Arizona Department of Public Safety introduces its 1st crisis response canine2 teens arrested after ‘Senior Assassins’ game causes disturbance at Queen Creek drive-thruWalmart announces $250K grant to boost workforce development opportunities in ArizonaAG Kris Mayes sues landlords for leaving Tucson tenants without air conditioningDriver dies after colliding with Valley Metro bus in south Phoenix while fleeing separate crash