Tonto Basin Ranger District prepares for fuel reduction burns

Tonto Basin fire personnel are planning two separate fuel reduction operations, Tuesday, Dec. 6, 2022.

The two operations include burning community green waste piles near the Punkin Center and burning the 83 pit south of the Tonto Monument. The total burn size of the 83 pit is 2 acres and includes three pit sites and three slash piles.

Smoke is anticipated to be moderate during ignitions and is expected to disperse by the late afternoon with minimal impacts to Arizona State Route 188 and the community of Tonto Basin. Ignitions will be completed by noon. Nighttime smoke should be minimal and may impact the community of Tonto Basin and Punkin Center. 

The Forest Service will post signs on roads likely to be affected by smoke. Officials urge motorists to use caution while driving thru these areas and to slow down for the safety of firefighters and the public. 

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