WILLIAMS – Warmer and dryer weather conditions are expected over the weekend which could slow progress on the Boundary Fire, as fire crews work slowly and methodically to back the fire down the mountain. This will allow for better control reducing the chances of the fire front pushing uphill and creating intense heat which would adversely affect the tree canopy. It is important that fire crews continue with ignitions during dry weather as it allows for consumption of the decadent fuels on the ground, decreasing the heavy accumulation of fuels on the mountain. The window of opportunity to be able to reduce fuel loads in this area is limited to the time between when the fuels dry out from winter snow melt and the Monsoon rains. Therefore, timing is everything.

Every year Kendrick Mountain sees multiple fire starts. By allowing this fire to reduce the hazardous fuels that exist there currently, we are setting ourselves, our neighbors and our communities up for less risk from those starts in the future.

Today, aerial ignitions continued adjacent to the historic cabin and Kendrick Lookout Tower. Helicopters were onsite assisting with water drops in the area. Ground crews began preforming hand ignitions near and around private property.

Expect increased smoke production over the next few days and poor air movement. Smoke may affect local communities including Greater Doney Park, Timberline, City of Flagstaff, Baderville, Fort Valley, and Bellmont. Firefighter, public safety, and ecosystem health remain the top priorities for fire managers while keeping the fire within the planning area.

Closure Order Number 04-17-14-F (PDF)) includes all or parts of Forest Roads 9005, 9023C, 91, 736, 144, 171, 193, and ending at US Highway 180 remains in effect. This closure includes all roads and trails within the perimeter of the closure area. US Highway 180 will also remain closed until further notice. For more information regarding highway closures please visit azdot.gov or visit ADOT’s Travel Information Site at www.az511.gov.

For more information on the Boundary Fire, visit inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/5209/. Quick updates will also be provided via Twitter at @KaibabNF and @CoconinoNF. Please follow us if you would like to be updated as information is received.