Flagstaff is taking big strides in the battle against the potential disasters wildfires could bring. The Upper Rio de Flag Forest Restoration Project, initiated in March, has nailed down its initial goals and is already setting the wheels in motion to significantly slash the wildfire and flood risks in the region. A strategic move that brings the 12,000-acre project closer to fruition is the signing of a contract with Perkins Timber Harvesting, which has pledged to begin work immediately in the priority Wing East area, spanning 2,604 acres.

With fire prevention at the top of its agenda, the Coconino National Forest and the Coconino County Flood Control District announced the progress, as reported by Coconino County Arizona. The Nature Conservancy is also on board, planning to finalize a deal for their piece of the puzzle, covering 2,053 acres across the Hoch and Little Wing areas, within the next month.

Matt McGrath, the Coconino National Forest District Ranger, acknowledged the speed at which the project is moving, stating, "This is going just as quickly as we hoped." McGrath's comments, as per the Coconino County Arizona, reflect the satisfaction with the project’s traction. More contracts are on the table, including for the Derffer and Wing West areas, while discussions for the Leroux area are anticipated to be pushed to May 2025.

According to the Coconino County District 1 Supervisor Patrice Horstman, "Investments into proactive forest restoration are not just sensible, they are imperative." Horstman's statements to the Coconino National Forest highlight the local understanding of the critical nature of these preventative measures. And, it's not just local entities digging into their pockets – the Coconino County Board of Supervisors has earmarked a cool $7.6 million from their forest restoration budget to support the cause.