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The Kaibab National Forest has transitioned the Mill Fire into monitor status after Labor Day weekend rainstorms stalled the growth of the fire at 1, 710 acres. The fire, which is located about three miles south of Big Springs, reached Forest Road 255 to the south and west, and remained within the confines of FR 22 and FR 447 to the east and north.

Fire managers were able to achieve a number of objectives with the Mill Fire, both safely and effectively. Most importantly, the Mill Fire was used to reintroduce naturally ignited fire into the ecosystem. The absence of fire activity in large areas across the forest has resulted in heavy, dangerous fuel accumulation. Managing natural fire such as the Mill Fire under favorable low intensity conditions decreases the potential for future large, out of control fires and promotes a healthy ecosystem.

"Ponderosa pine forests have traditionally had fire as part of the natural fire regime every five to eight years," said Joshua Erickson, assistant fire management officer for the North Zone Fire Management Unit.

According to Erickson, stringent planning and favorable weather conditions aided fire managers in keeping the fire within it's predetermined perimeter.

"We carefully planned our actions on this fire," added Erickson.

When the Mill Fire was discovered, forest officials assessed possible growth given the predicted weather conditions, time of season, terrain and fuels. They also considered the fire's location relative to a previous prescribed burn area that helped prevent rapid fire spread.

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"Our goal is to build a successful fire management program on the district," said Tim Short, district ranger for the North Kaibab Ranger District. "The Mill Fire was an important step in achieving that goal and we're looking forward to other successful fire management opportunities."

Fire Managers have also planned a prescribed burn in an area northeast of the Mill Fire, near Little Mountain. Only if the parameters of the prescription are met will the Little Mountain fire be initiated sometime this fall.

Through roads in the fire area are open to traffic, although visitors should use caution while recreating in the area between Forest Roads 22, 447 and 255. Visitors should be especially watchful for snags, smoldering stump holes and blocked access-ways.

For additional information, please contact Kate Vanden Bossche, Public Affairs Specialist, (928-643-8172). Incident information is also posted on http://www.inciweb.org/.