Frio Fire being managed on the Globe Ranger District at 3,250 acres

Lightning-caused wildfire started August 17

Globe, Ariz. (September 23, 2011 – 2000 hrs.) – Globe Ranger District fire specialists are currently managing the lightning-caused Frio wildfire in the Pinal Mountain range in the Tonto National Forest. 

The Frio fire, which began August 17, is approximately 3,250 acres in size and is burning in brush today which is causing smoke to be more visible. 

A crew is building fireline along the active sections of the fire, so flames may be visible.  Additional resources have been ordered for tomorrow to expand the fireline.

Smoke will continue to be visible and firefighters and residents may experience some smoke effects.   As fire activity and spread are reduced, smoke impacts will be lessened considerably.

“Firefighter and public safety are our primary concern in managing all incidents,” stated Quentin Johnson, fire management officer.  “It drives all our fire management strategy decisions. We continue to be pleased with the behavior, direction and favorable weather conditions during this fire as we support Mother Nature’s housekeeping efforts.”

Natural landscapes in the Southwest are fire-adapted ecosystems:  they need fire to thrive and flourish. Low-intensity, managed fires clean up forest understory, consume downed logs, branches, pine needles, and old stumps while reducing the risk of catastrophic wildfire. Fire also returns nutrient-rich ash back to the soil, thus promoting the regeneration of native grasses and forbs in the landscape. These native grasses and forbs improve and enhance wildlife habitat.  

For other updates, please contact the Globe Ranger District administrative offices at 928-402-6200.  Incident updates are being maintained at the National Incident Information System website:  www.inciweb.org

Residents can also stay updated on fires at www.fs.usda.gov/Tonto.  To report a wildland fire, the fire emergency number is 866-746-6516, or dial 9-1-1.