5/08 Tonto National Forest responded to the Horseshoe Fire, near Horseshoe Lake Thursday afternoon. As of last night, the fire had charred an estimated 300-acres, fueled by dry conditions, warmer temperatures and wind. The fire is burning on the west side of the Verde River and both sides of Forest Road-205. Crews have been working to stop the fire’s spread toward private property, utility infrastructure, Forest Service recreation sites and natural resources in the Verde River corridor. Smoke will be visible in the surrounding area for the next several days. If evacuations are needed, they’ll be handled by the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office. The cause of fire is under investigation.
