Four partial closures have now been announced on the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests; this is in addition to the partial closures that started today on both the Coconino and Tonto National Forests. In addition, Coconino County itself has announced Stage-3 fire restrictions. The restrictions are in place for all of Coconino County up to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. Stage-1 restrictions remain in effect above the North Rim. The ordinance applies to unincorporated areas and residences in the County that are not under the jurisdiction of a fire district. In addition all state lands within Navajo, Apache, Coconino and Gila Counties are closed. These heightened restrictions prohibit any combustion, open fire, charcoal, propane, shooting of firearms and camp fires in unincorporated areas and residences in the County. Residents should visit the website of the forest they’ll be visiting before heading out to find out the current restrictions and closures in the area and contact their local fire jurisdiction to find out what restrictions are in place in their own backyards.
