FLAGSTAFF — The Coconino National Forest has issued an emergency closure on all National Forest System lands within the area of the Mormon Fire on the Coconino National Forest, in Coconino County, north of the intersection of Forest Service Road 700 and FR 240 until rescinded or June 26, 2016, whichever event occurs first.

This area closure is implemented as a standard wildfire operations procedure which helps to protect the public from entering into an area that is still active with fire, so as not to impede the efficiency of firefighters and allow for their safety while they do their job. The public is prohibited from entering any trails, roads, or areas within the fire closure area, which will be in force until further notification.

To view the Order and map of the fire closure area, visit: http://tinyurl.com/hu7c99f
This area, road, and trail closure only affects National Forest System land, roads, and trails within the closure area on the Coconino National Forest. The closure does not affect any private, state, county, or other Non-National Forest System lands within the closure boundary.

“The Mormon Fire, a wildfire, is being managed near Mormon Mountain in the Flagstaff Ranger District,” said George Jozens, Deputy Public Affairs Officer for the Coconino National Forest. “The firefighters on scene are taking all measures to protect people, sensitive wildlife and other values which may be at risk. This closure is just one of the tools used to manage safety in the area. This lightning-caused wildfire is adding the frequent, low severity fire to restore wildlife habitat, promote healthy vegetation, reduce fuels and the risk of severe fire, and create safer conditions for residents, visitors, and firefighters.”