Echo fire moves to monitor status
Perimeter burnout operations for the Echo fire concluded Wednesday and the lightning-caused wildfire that began on July 17 is completely lined, with only small internal pockets still burning and smoldering.
Smoke from the Echo fire should no longer impact surrounding communities such as Flagstaff and Sedona, and only residual smoke will be noticeable to those in the immediate area of the wildfire due to internal areas continuing to smolder. The fire received light to moderate rainfall yesterday, and crews will continue to monitor the pockets of unburned areas.
The total acreage of the Echo fire concluded at 1,954 acres as the fire accomplished multiple objectives, reducing hazardous fuels, restoring forest health and burning dead logs, branches, needles and leaves.
The location of the fire was an important strategic area for reducing fire danger and providing a point of protection for the city of Flagstaff, as the fire tied in a large swath of area that included last year’s Slide fire and the Taylor fire of 2009.
SPRINGS FIRE OVERVIEW
The Springs Fire, a lightning-caused wildfire on the Williams Ranger District of the Kaibab National Forest, is growing slowly due to increasing monsoonal activity in the area. Fire managers anticipate minimal growth and smoke production over the next couple of days.
Today: Firefighters will continue work in preparation for the wildfire’s anticipated future growth including lining archaeological sites, private property, aspen fences, and any other potentially fire-sensitive resources near the fire area. Prep work will also include reinforcing established perimeter roads so that the wildfire will not spread beyond them. This important work ensures that when the Springs Fire becomes active again, which it likely will when conditions are drier, managers will be able to allow it to take its natural course without the risk of negatively impacting other values in the area.
Smoke: Smoke production is expected to be light through the weekend given higher relative humidity levels, cloud cover, and rain in the forecast. Light smoke may be noticeable near the wildfire along County Road 73, also known as the South Road, and forest roads 354, 110, 147 and 57A.
Closures: Summit Mountain Trail #68 is temporarily closed due to fire activity. Use of the trail is prohibited until the closure order has been lifted. There are no other closures associated with the Springs Fire, but campers and motorists near the wildfire are advised to use caution due to firefighting equipment and personnel in the area.
Size: 2,664 acres
Start Date: July 2, 2015
Location: 9 miles southeast of Williams in the Summit Mountain and Davenport Knoll area