Tonto National Forest

Replanting ‘king of the cactus family’ within Bush Fire burn scar remains a labor of love

11/18/2024 - 3:43 pm
wildfire, Tonto National Forest, planting cactus, Bush Fire burn scar, Bush Fire, burn scar

The saguaro cactus is a centuries-old icon of Arizona’s landscape, having appeared in more movies than actor John Wayne. Placement of the cactus in cartoons such as the “Road Runner and Wile E. Coyote” imprinted the saguaro on generations of impressionable young viewers.

These jolly green giants of the Sonoran Desert reach heights of 40 to 60 feet and can weigh between two and three tons. Saguaros stand as large green pillars atop the dusty landscape, welcoming visitors with open “arms”.

Skeleton Fire received some moisture on Tuesday evening

8/07/2024 - 4:08 pm
Skeleton Fire, Bureau of Land Management, BLM, Tonto National Forest, Agua Fria National Monument, wildfire

There was minimal growth to the Skeleton Fire during the day on Tuesday. The fire received some moisture across Perry Mesa on Tuesday evening. The fire was mapped at 24,034 acres. Increased acreage is from fire activity Monday night. Firefighters continue working to secure fire edges. The fire has burned in the Agua Fria National Monument and the Tonto National Forest.  

Fire details: