Tonto National Forest officials will implement Stage 1 Fire and Recreational Target Shooting Restrictions for portions of the forest beginning Thursday, May 23 at 8 a.m. due to increased fire danger across the forest.
The decision to enter Stage 1 restrictions was made in conjunction with other federal and state land management agencies in Arizona.
Stage 1 Fire Restrictions also include recreational shooting restrictions in an effort to protect public and firefighter safety, as well as impacts to natural resources on National Forest System lands. Restrictions will remain in effect until Forest Service officials determine that conditions have changed sufficiently to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires.
Stage 1 Fire Restrictions prohibit the following acts when visiting the Tonto:
Exemptions to Stage 1 Fire Restrictions include:
“Vehicle fires continue to occur along SR 87. It only takes one spark from dragging trailer chains or an exposed wheel rim cause by a tire blowout to ignite dry vegetation,” said Mandell. “We urge the public to have their vehicles inspected before heading to the forest to avoid a blowout. Properly greased axles can help reduce the risk of a roadside fire.”
According to Mandell, parking over dry grass still has the potential to spark a wildfire with current high temperatures and the public can play a key role in preventing wildfires by making sure their vehicles are properly maintained.
Violation of fire restrictions is punishable by a fine of up to $5,000 and imprisonment for up to six months. For more information regarding the fire restrictions closure order, shooting restrictions and an accompanying map, see Alerts & Warnings.
The public can obtain current state and federal fire restrictions information across Arizona on the Arizona Interagency Wildfire Prevention and Information website.