Update on Willow Fire Tuesday, June 21

Willow Fire at Bear Canyon Lake now up to 400 acres 

USFS press release

“Despite the winds on Sunday, firefighters were able to make great progress to suppress the Willow Fire,” said Black Mesa District Ranger Dee Hines. “Special thanks to Coconino NF, Tonto NF, Arizona Land Department-Forestry Division, for their quick initial attack response,” he added, “and thanks to Bureau of Land Management for offering backup resources on initial attack”  

The fire, located about one mile north of Bear Canyon Lake, is estimated at 350-400 acres, better mapping capabilities will provide a more accurate number of acres. Another acreage estimate will be provided later tonight. Firefighters are working on minimizing the potential threat to an APS KV powerline, as well as private lands to the north of the fire.  Yesterday’s wind-driven fire activity caused the fire to spot up to one-half mile.  Spots were lined-out quickly and did not pose further challenges. Firefighting resources were quickly available yesterday.  On scene resources include:  Two Type I crews, five Type II crews, four dozers, and nine engines, altogether approximately 200 fire personnel.  

Fire crews will enforce their firelines today using some burnout operations.  

The fire was determined to be human caused, currently under investigation.

Stage II fire restrictions and forest closures have been in place on the Sitgreaves part of the Forest since June 3rd.  Please call your local Ranger Station for updated Fire Restriction or Forest Closure information or visit our Forest website: www.fs.usda.gov/asnf.

A reminder that fireworks are always prohibited on all national forest lands.