As wildfires in the Southwest become an increasingly persistent issue, the USDA Forest Service has embraced a proactive approach towards managing National Forest System lands for health and resilience, applying a 'confine and contain' strategy with the recent onset of the West and Preacher Fires on the Tonto National Forest Payson Ranger District.
The strategy, which took place after lightning struck and ignited both fires on August 28, employed natural barriers and preconstructed defenses to confine fires, as well as control lines to contain them, according to a recent report by the USDA Forest Service. Helicopters and modified drones were used to tackle inaccessible areas, with ground crews supporting operations through more hands-on means like chainsaws, and drip torches.
Containing the West Fire required extensive efforts, encompassing 15,074 acres as of October 9, and reaching a 95% containment at the time of the report. The protection of nearby communities such as Camp Geronimo and Geronimo Estates was imperative, and Pine real estate agent Evelyn Beck recognized the importance of the Forest Service's efforts. "We live in a breathtaking area but must realize our homes are in or adjacent to a forest," Beck told the USDA Forest Service. She emphasizes the gravity of educating potential home buyers on the nuances of wildfire management.
Firefighters celebrated a significant win with the complete containment of the Preacher Fire by mid-September, an event which spanned 3,167 acres, according to the Forest Service's documentation. Communities like Tonto Village and Thompson Draw benefitted from the management of this particular fire. Jason McInteer, deputy district ranger on the Payson Ranger District, highlighted the importance of maintaining good relationships with partners and stakeholders, "We meet with emergency responders throughout the year and ensure they are aware of our plans to treat National Forest System lands," McInteer said. His involvement as an agency administrator during the fires played a crucial role in managing these critical situations.
The efforts of the Payson Ranger District are also part of a larger framework known as the Four Forest Restoration Initiative (4FRI), a cornerstone of the Forest Service's 10-year strategy to combat the wildfire crisis. This initiative emphasizes the importance of community safety, habitat improvement, and ecological health across various landscapes in Arizona. Further information regarding these projects and their contribution to the strategy, can be found on the Tonto National Forest's wildfire crisis strategy website.
