Sunflower Fire 80 percent contained

Sunflower Fire News Release

May 30, 2012 1:00 p.m.

Media ONLY Fire Information (602) 525-1042

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,

Total personnel: 45                              Available air support: 1 helicopter

Summary: Sunflower Fire operations continue to be downsized as fire activity decreases.  An aerial reconnaissance flight over the fire area yesterday revealed dispersed hot spots within the established fire perimeter.  Incident Commander Brian Achziger said the heavy fuels (dead trees) observed from the air do not pose an immediate threat and will likely continue to smolder and burn until measurable precipitation is received.

Fire crews are working closely with members of the Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) team to remove brush from drainages. 

Management of the fire is expected to be transferred from Achziger’s Type 3 Team to the Tonto National Forest this weekend. 

The Sunflower Fire Area remains closed while work is ongoing.  Fire restrictions in the Tonto National Forest are also in effect.  Forest information may be viewed online at www.fs.usda.gov/tonto.

Fire Information (for public): Mesa Ranger District administrative offices: (480) 610-3300