Sunflower Fire update as of May 29, 1 p.m.

Sunflower Fire News Release

May 29, 2012 1:00 p.m.

Fire Information: (575) 302-2107

Website: www.inciweb.org

Acres:  17,618                                     Start date:  May 12, 2012

Cause:  Under Investigation               Location:  21 miles south of Payson

Containment: 80 percent                     Fuels:  Grass, chaparral, pinyon pine

Terrain:  Steep, rugged                        Resources:  2 crews, 1 engine,

Total personnel: 50                              Available air support: 1 helicopter

Summary: The Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) team is on the ground today evaluating natural resources impacted by the Sunflower Fire.  A function of the BAER team is to identify drainage areas that need additional slash removal. 

Chainsaw and chipper crews are clearing woody debris created during initial construction of fire line.  An aerial reconnaissance flight is being conducted today to identify any “hot spots” near the northern fire perimeter in remote areas of the Mazatzal Wilderness. 

Minimal fire activity was observed over the holiday weekend.  Periodic smoke may be visible until sufficient precipitation is received to douse smoldering trees located within the fire boundary.

The Sunflower Fire Area is closed until further notice by the Tonto National Forest.  Fire restrictions remain in effect.  Additional information may be viewed online at www.fs.usda.gov/tonto.