Forest closures have begun due to the continued extreme drought conditions. Last week, Arizona State Lands were closed within Navajo and Apache Counties. So far this week, both the Coconino and Tonto National Forests have announced closures that will begin Wednesday morning. The closures are in areas that generally surround urban areas such as Flagstaff and Payson. These areas are closed to protect the public and the watershed. Areas being closed to the public on the Coconino National Forest include the San Francisco Peaks/Mount Elden, Kelly Canyon, Fay Canyon/Fisher Point and Mormon Mountain; the Mogollon Rim south of Highway-87 and Fossil Creek. Areas being closed to the public on the Tonto National Forest include land north of Payson to the forest boundary between the White Mountain Apache Reservation on the eastern boundary and the Coconino National Forest on the western boundary. Also closed are the forest lands, roads and trails within the Mount Ord, Four Peaks and the Three Bar Wildlife areas. Violating the closures or restrictions requires the individual to appear before a federal judge, up to a $10,000 fine and or 6-months in jail. Visit www.firerestrictions.us for current restrictions.
