Kaibab National Forest officials say the 2nd phase of hazardous fuel removal from the steep slopes of Bill Williams Mountain is beginning this month. A Forestry Management of Colorado Springs, Colorado has been awarded the contract to treat the next 176-acres of the Bill Williams Mountain Restoration Project, a collaborative effort between federal, state, local, and non-profit partners. Crews have already begun preparing roads, clearing a landing site, delivering equipment and supplies, and bringing in sawyers, in preparation for the arrival of the helicopter that will begin yarding material off the mountain later this month. The Forest Service is issuing a temporary area closure for public and crew safety on and around the mountain. Project managers aim to complete the 2nd stage of thinning before snow arrives. There are about-725 additional acres on the steep slopes identified for future treatment as the next phases of this project move forward.
