Fire activity now minimal on the Sunflower Fire

Smoke will remain for some time as downed trees from previous fires smolder and burn

Sunflower Fire Update, May 22 at 6 a.m.

Acres:  16,115                                     Start date:  May 12, 2012

Cause:  Under Investigation                   Location:  21 miles south of Payson

Containment: 43 percent                       Fuels:  Grass, chaparral, pinion pine

Terrain:  Steep, rugged              Resources:  3 crews, 9 engines, 1 dozer, 2 water tenders

Total personnel: 259                             Available air support:  6 helicopters, 6 air tankers

Summary

Fire activity is minimal on the Sunflower Fire but smoke may be visible for some time as downed trees from previous fires smolder and burn in the remote, rugged terrain of the Mazatzal Wilderness. 

Fire personnel continue to monitor control lines, complete mop-up 200-feet into the interior and implement other actions as needed.  Traffic will increase as resources are downsized and personnel and equipment are demobilized from the fire camp at Ft. McDowell along State Route 87. Travelers on that road are cautioned to stay alert, obey speed limit signs and be aware of emergency vehicles moving onto and along the roadway.

Management of the fire will be transferred from the Arizona Central West Zone Incident Management Team to an Arizona Type 3 Incident Management Team at 6:00 PM today.