Newt Update
Incident: Newt WFU Wildland Fire Used for Resource Benefit
Released: 8/6/2008
The Newt Wildland Fire Use (WFU) is located 15 miles east of Tusayan on the Coconino Rim and is about 450 acres. Activity has decreased significantly under a strong monsoonal weather pattern; the fire received around one half inch of rain on Monday.
Wildland fire use management is often a long duration project. The fire may be inactive now, but there is potential for increased activity when warm and dry conditions return. While the Newt WFU remains within a predetermined area and achieves specific land management objectives, fire officials will continue to manage it for resource benefits.
One of the primary resource benefits the Newt WFU is producing is the reintroduction of fire in a part of the forest that has been without this natural disturbance for too long. The absence of fire activity in large areas across the forest has resulted in heavy, dangerous fuel accumulation. Managing natural fire such as the Newt WFU under favorable low intensity conditions decreases the potential for future large, out of control fires and promotes a healthy ecosystem.
The Newt Fire started July 19 and was initially managed under a confinement strategy. After a week of evaluation, observation and assessment, fire managers decided to shift the Newt Fire from confinement status to fire use management for resource benefits. This decision is authorized in a pilot program testing proposed modifications to the Federal Wildland Fire Management Policy, 2003. The Kaibab National Forest is one of 30 test sites participating in the pilot program this season.
For the past two weeks, fire activity has impacted portions of the Arizona Trail. Fire managers decided to close some areas due to potential hazards such as dead standing trees and hidden burning stump holes. These areas will remain closed until it is determined safe for travel. Detour signs are posted for the public; please use caution.
There is no visible smoke from the fire today. However, if fire activity increases again, smoke may be noticeable along stretches of State Highway 64. The Newt WFU is not affecting access to Grand Canyon National Park.
For more information, please contact Punky Moore, Fire Information Officer, (928-635-5653).
-USFS-
