Verde Glen Rx burn cancelled

Our plan to eliminate 200 acres of vegetative debris piles tomorrow (1-15-13) in the Verde Glen area has been cancelled due to the right variables going out of “prescription.” Even though some snow still remains on the ground in certain areas on the Payson Ranger District, the extreme cold has taken a direct hit on fuel moisture content. Additionally, weather projections indicate we are currently headed for drier and warmer conditions. The planned RX fire treatments in the Verde Glen area have been cancelled, until further notice, to ensure public safety and the protection of natural resources. 

 Payson, Ariz. (January 11, 2013) – Payson Ranger District fire specialists plan to conduct prescribed fire operations to eliminate 200 acres of vegetative debris piles in the Verde Glen area beginning Tuesday, Jan. 15.

            Residents and visitors to the area can expect to see and smell moderate amounts of smoke during the 3-day operation.

Smoke may linger in the area through Sunday, Jan. 20.

During the day, smoke will impact the areas of Verde Glenn, Rim Trail, Washington Park, and Whispering Pines. District fire specialists will terminate ignitions each day by 3 p.m. to mitigate smoke impacts.

Diurnal air flow in the evening will move residual smoke down the East Verde corridor.

When fire operations begin, signs will be posted along roads that are likely to be affected by smoke. Motorists are urged to use caution while driving through these areas and to slow down for the safety of firefighters and the public.

            Prescription fire requests must be approved by Arizona Department of Environmental Quality for each day of the burning operations.

Prescribed fire treatments are always dependent on optimal weather conditions, such as fuel moisture content, temperature, relative humidity, wind speed and directions, and other variables.

For further information, please call the Payson Ranger District at 928-474-7900.  Residents can also stay updated on prescribed fires at www.fs.usda.gov/tonto.