The Tonto National Forest will conduct two prescribed burns starting Monday next week, weather permitting, lasting up to 14 days. The U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service announced that the burns aim to reduce wildfire risk by consuming vegetation.
The burns will cover 890 acres at Diamond Point and 2,100 acres at Ellison Creek. These areas may be temporarily closed to the public. Nearby communities, including Diamond Point Summer Homes and Ellison Creek Estates, may notice smoke. Drivers on Forest Road 65 and Highway 260 should be cautious due to reduced visibility.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service may cancel burns if conditions are unsafe. Residents can get updates via the forest’s website, social media, or monitor air quality on the AirNow app. The USDA Forest Service manages 193 million acres of public land and nearly 900 million acres of U.S. forests, working to maintain ecological health and community safety.
