Prescott National Forest

Fire and Aviation

Forest Restoration and Wildfire Risk Reduction Program

The Prescott National Forest is committed to improving ecosystem health, rangeland conditions, wildlife habitat, while reducing the threat and adverse effects of wildland fire. We use a variety of techniques to accomplish these objectives including, tree thinning and harvesting, mechanical brush clearing, grazing, and prescribed fire. One or all of these methods are being utilized by the Forest on a daily basis.

Prescribed burning is one of the most effective tools for restoring healthy ecosystems and meeting desired resource outcomes. It is also the most cost-effective method.

Autumn is the primary season when prescribed fire is utilized. Weather, wind, and vegetation conditions are optimum for minimizing risks of prescribed fire, meeting strict air quality standards and attaining resource objectives. Earlier or later in the year has a higher risk of smoke settling in the Prescott Basin or Verde Valley, but prescribed fire may be utilized to meet objectives.

Prescribed burning generates smoke. It may be visible for a hundred miles or present in your own neighborhood. Over the last several years fire managers have been responsive to public concern about the effects of smoke and adjusted prescribed fire operations.

1. First and foremost the Prescott National Forest employees recognize that smoke is a concern to many people in adjacent communities. Accurate, "real time" information to community members and visitors is vital so that people can be prepared and or adjust to the possible effects of smoke.
2. The Prescott National Forest will conduct prescribed fire activities in total compliance with the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality's guidelines. Approval and monitoring are conducted according to National Air Quality Standards.
3. Fewer burn days are scheduled to shorten the season when burning occurs. A greater number of acres are generally burned each day with a more visible smoke plume. Larger plumes tend to disperse at higher elevations lessening the potential for settling in adjacent communities.
4. Burning operations are conducted in such a manner that optimum venting and smoke dispersal will occur. Time of ignition and burning patterns are carefully executed and monitored to minimize smoke in adjacent communities.
5. Adjusting the season's prescribed burn project schedule across the Forest to maximize the conditions for meeting smoke and resource objectives.
6. Burn only the amount of fuels or vegetation necessary to meet resource objectives. Many projects have a mosaic of burned and unburned areas that mimic natural processes and landscape characteristics.