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We at KNAU know that northern Arizona wildfire information is crucial to our listeners. This page is our comprehensive source for information about the 2014 wildfire season. Here you will find all the latest updates from area fire agencies and national forests as well as wildfire-oriented stories.For breaking news tips, call the KNAU newsroom at (928) 523-4912 or e-mail ryan.heinsius@nau.edu.

Crews Manage Three Fires on the Kaibab National Forest Ahead of Drier Weather

Kaibab National Forest

Managers on the Kaibab National Forest have been taking advantage of wetter conditions by allowing multiple wildfires to burn. But, as Arizona Public Radio’s Ryan Heinsius reports, with drier weather on the way, crews are preparing for more unpredictable fire activity.

Officials may allow the 120-acre Sitgreaves Fire near Parks in the Williams Ranger District to spread within nearly 15,000 surrounding acres. Crews are monitoring the lightning-caused blaze as it burns at a low-to-moderate intensity. Nearby, the 300-acre Duck Fire — 76 miles southeast of Fredonia — has become more active due to drier conditions.

Additionally, the 1,200-acre McRae Fire is burning south of the Grand Canyon in the Tusayan Ranger District. Forest managers could let it spread among about 11,000 acres. The 15-acre Quaking Fire in the North Kaibab Ranger District could also be allowed to spread to 1,100 acres. The blazes will help crews rid the forest of dry fuel that could contribute to catastrophic wildfires in the future.

Forest managers have closed 11,000 acres surrounding the McRae Fire. The area is being used by crews for planning, but danger to the public still exists. The closure will remain in effect until it’s rescinded by officials, or until August 15.

According to Kaibab National Forest officials, with a break in monsoon rains expected to continue, crews are conducting burnout operations. The activities are a safeguard against the fires spreading beyond control. Despite fire danger decreasing in northern Arizona forests recently, managers are keeping a close eye on all area wildfires. Officials say smoke could be visible throughout the region for the next several days.

Ryan Heinsius was named interim news director and managing editor in January 2024. He joined KNAU's newsroom as an executive producer in 2013. He covers a broad range of stories from local, state and tribal politics to education, economy, energy and public lands issues, and frequently interviews internationally known and regional musicians. Ryan is an Edward R. Murrow Award winner and a Public Media Journalists Association Award winner, and a frequent contributor to NPR's Morning Edition, All Things Considered and national newscast.
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