Indian Fire Update
Incident: Indian Fire Wildland Fire
Released: 6/23/2009
TUSAYAN, Ariz. - Fire personnel responded to a new fire on the Tusayan Ranger District of the Kaibab National Forest after thunderstorms moved across the area on June 17. The lightning caused Indian Fire is approximately five miles southeast of Tusayan and southeast of 10X Campground. Monday, managers reported the Indian Fire has grown to 100 acres.
When personnel initially responded to the fire, they placed it in monitor status instead of taking suppression actions. Upon further evaluation, officials determined the fire had good potential to meet protection and resource management objectives and transferred it to a management strategy to meet those objectives. Stated objectives include protecting cultural sites, preventing fire spread near research sites, improving wildlife habitat and returning fire to its proper role in a fire-adapted ecosystem.
Monday, crews conducted management ignitions along Forest Road 688 ahead of the main fire to prevent fire from becoming established north of the road. Personnel plan to take these actions again Tuesday, to keep fire within the desired management area and allow eastward fire progression.
The forecast calls for very warm temperatures and a chance of widespread showers to persist for several days. Managers anticipate moderate fire activity and growth during this time. Smoke is dispersing well throughout the day. However, there may be some light impacts to State Route 64 late evening and early morning.
For additional information, please contact Punky Moore, Fire Information Officer, 928-635-5653.
-USFS-
