TUSAYAN, Ariz. — Two new lightning-triggered wildfires discovered last week east of Tusayan will be managed within designated areas to reduce fuel loads and promote a healthier landscape. rice field.

The Ridge Fire, which was started by lightning on June 4, is located along Forest Road 302 near Skinner Tank, about 11 miles southeast of Tusayan. Currently, 112 acres of ponderosa pine forest are burning, moving south along Skinner Ridge.

The Hull fire, also caused by lightning on June 4, occurred near the Lower Hull Tank, just northeast of Grandview Lookout and east of Grandview Point, along the boundary of the Kaibab National Forest and Grand Canyon National Park. The Hull Fire is currently burning over 55 acres of Ponderosa Pine Forest, expanding northward, co-managed by Grand Canyon National Park.

The overall strategy is to let the fire burn naturally, as long as you can manage it safely while achieving your objectives. Both of these fires will be monitored for spread with the goal of reducing the accumulation of harmful fuel while restoring and maintaining forest health. They are also beneficial in enhancing the protection of wildlife habitats, historic sites, large timber forests and sensitive watersheds. Resource experts will pay close attention to the protection of cultural and natural resources in and around the planned incineration area.

Both of these fires are expected to grow in size, as growth is highly influenced by weather, available fuel, and terrain.

Smoke may be visible from various forest roads (such as Highway 180 and State Highway 64) near these locations. Within the park, smoke effects can be most noticeable along Desert View Drive.

At this time, no impact is expected on surrounding development areas.

Fire personnel and vehicles are open to the public at these locations. Drivers and visitors are asked to avoid active hot areas and are reminded to exercise caution and drive with high awareness when passing near fires.

Source: Kaibab National Forest