Phase 2 of the Dude Fire Restoration project on the Tonto National Forest Payson Ranger District began June 5. The project continues a collaboration between the Tonto and state partners to improve the health and vigor of ponderosa pine trees in the Dude Fire burn scar and confront the wildfire crisis along the Mogollon Rim.
Contracted crews are restoring 1,143 acres of ponderosa pine and woodland by reducing tree densities and removing competing brush through mastication, a treatment wherein crews use various equipment to grind, chip, or break apart brush and small woodland tree...