Category: Public Safety

County Plows Ready for Season’s First Snow

by Community Contributor • November 2, 2022 • Comments Off

Coconino County Public Works crews are prepared to keep County roads open and passable during the first snowstorm of the 2022-2023 winter season, which is forecast to hit Northern Arizona this week.

According to the National Weather Service, rain and snow showers are expected across northern Arizona starting Wednesday night and lasting into Friday, with the heaviest expected Thursday morning/afternoon. Minor accumulations are expected down to about 5000 feet with around 4 to 6 inches expected above 6500 feet.

Short-Term Flood Mitigation Projects Move Forward

by Community Contributor • October 31, 2022 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — On October 25, the Coconino County Flood Control District (District) Directors approved investing up to $11.5 million in a set of smaller scale flood mitigation projects in the Schultz/Pipeline Flood area. These projects will restore the capacity of some of the existing flood mitigation measures in the area and reduce flood impacts to the Doney Park area through construction of a series of berms near Landfill Road.

The District Directors received an in-depth presentation regarding the District’s short-term on-forest and neighborhood mitigation projects and staff requested a budget adjustment in the amount of $10.5 million to cover the costs. The funding will come through a loan from the County’s General Fund. After the presentation and clarifying questions from Board members, the budget adjustment was approved unanimously by those present.

The NAU Review — Our Homecoming dedicatee, a beetle’s gut and how to get your NAUPD pink patch

by Community Contributor • October 6, 2022 • Comments Off

Alicia Voytek named Homecoming dedicatee!
Voytek was presenting to a group of campus living staff when the team’s meeting was interrupted by a crowd of people who marched in the room, waving pompoms and cheering loudly. “Um, what’s happening?” she asked. The intruders circled around her, and Voytek’s eyes began to well as she realized the cause for the unannounced parade: she was this year’s Homecoming dedicatee.

The NAU Review — A++, World Teachers’ Day and the installation recap of President Cruz Rivera

by Community Contributor • October 4, 2022 • Comments Off

In a new, first-of-its-kind partnership, Northern Arizona University will partner with all ten community college districts across the state and the Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA) to launch the Arizona Attainment Alliance (A++). This collaboration aims to harness the collective impact of distinct institutions based on a shared desire to dramatically boost Arizona’s postsecondary attainment rate. A++ represents a new kind of student-centered postsecondary ecosystem, one based on collaboration across shared interests and priorities and the optimization of complementary assets in service to Arizonans.

Law enforcement partners with CCC for training academy

by Community Contributor • September 29, 2022 • Comments Off

They will undergo drills and inspections. They will take classes and be put under extreme stress.

The purpose: To achieve a level of professionalism in policing that meets the needs of the communities of northern Arizona. Beginning Oct. 3, 13 recruits will undergo 21 weeks of training at the newly established High Country Training Academy at Coconino Community College.

“CCC’s goal is to partner with the local community to train people who live in Coconino County for jobs in Coconino County,” said Dr. Nate Southerland, Provost for CCC. “We are so grateful to our local law enforcement agencies for being the driving force behind this new program and providing the personnel needed to make it successful.”

Southerland also said that with CCC and local agencies working together, they can generate new interest in law enforcement careers and keep the community’s talent in the community.

Board of Supervisors Authorizes Funding for Police Academy in Flagstaff

by Community Contributor • September 20, 2022 • Comments Off

At the September 13, 2022, meeting of the Coconino County Board of Supervisors, the board took unanimous action to approve funding for an intergovernmental agreement to train and certify recruits as peace officers through the Arizona Peace Officers Standards Training (POST) at the newly-created High Country Training Academy in Flagstaff.

Historically Coconino County Sheriff’s Office, Flagstaff Police Department, and other regional jurisdictions have had to send peace officer recruits to training academies in Yuma, Tucson, and others across the state. Along with limited availability for new recruits and associated travel costs, training schedules at statewide academies do not always conform to the hiring needs of our local agencies.

“It’s a very important endeavor for us to have a police academy in the Flagstaff area,” commented Chief Deputy Bret Axlund, “The Sheriff’s Office and CCC have partnered to operate a Detention Officer’s training academy at the school since 2005 which has accommodated hundreds of recruits, so this new training opportunity will build on an already proven partnership.”

Phase One of the Parks Road Reconstruction Project Breaks Ground Next Week

by Community Contributor • September 7, 2022 • Comments Off

The $1.5 million project includes replacement of approximately 1.2 miles of deteriorated pavement on Parks Road, Old Route 66, and Government Prairie Road. These improvements will extend roadway life, improve rideability, and reduce maintenance costs.

Coconino County is scheduled to break ground next week on the first phase of the Parks Roads Reconstruction Project. The $1.5 million project includes the replacement of approximately 1.2 miles of deteriorated pavement on Parks Road, Old Route 66, and Government Prairie Road. These improvements will extend roadway life, improve rideability, and reduce road maintenance costs. Funded entirely by Prop. 403, which county voters approved in 2014, the project also includes shoulder rehabilitation along these roads.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Aug. 29-Sept. 2, 2022

by Community Contributor • September 1, 2022 • Comments Off

Community level LOW–masking requirement indoors OPTIONAL

On Thursday, September 1, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated the Coconino County Community Level to LOW. People with symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19 should wear a mask.

Grand Canyon management has received updated information from the DOI and NPS on COVID guidance. We are reviewing this information and hoping to apply changes soon.

Additionally, the NPS Washington office has submitted new COVID guidance for concessionaires that removes mitigations that have been in place for building capacity, social distancing, and masking. We are working with the park’s concessionaires on these changes and expect most facilities to increase capacity indoors. More information will be provided as it becomes available.

Police academy OK’d by CCC governing board

by Community Contributor • August 26, 2022 • Comments Off

The Coconino Community College District Governing Board approved agreements to begin a police academy and to start working on a partnership among community colleges in northern Arizona to share resources in order to better serve students.

During the Aug. 17 meeting, CCC Provost Dr. Nate Southerland presented an Oct. 3, 2022, start date for the first police academy at the college after possible program approval by the Arizona Peace Officer Standards and Training Board. The police academy will start off as non-credit, but after curriculum approval, the program will give recruits credits to apply toward associate and higher degrees.

Southerland then shared information with the board on an agreement in the works with Northland Pioneer College, Mohave Community College and Yavapai College to share resources to better serve students in northern Arizona. Among the items discussed would be the sharing of courses and other services to extend a more robust level of service to students in the region. Talks are ongoing and intergovernmental agreements are planned for the near future.

Coconino County Flood Control District Briefs Federal Officials on Long-Term Flood Mitigation Plan

by Community Contributor • August 22, 2022 • Comments Off

Coconino County Flood Control District hosted Congressman Tom O’Halleran and officials from the United States Department of Agriculture, United States Forest Service, Natural Resources Conservation Service, the Federal Highway Administration, and the City of Flagstaff for a comprehensive briefing and tour of the Schultz/Pipeline Flood Area.

Flood Control District officials presented the District’s long-term plan for flood mitigation, briefing Congressman O’Halleran and federal officials about the new situation communities now face after nine critical watersheds were severely damaged by the recent Pipeline Fire. Flood Control District Administrator Lucinda Andreani, along with engineering partners, also presented a thorough long-term plan for flood mitigation on the east and west side of the San Francisco Peaks.

New Opioid Recovery Program Funded by Grant from Arizona Attorney General

by Community Contributor • August 18, 2022 • Comments Off

In 2017, the United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) declared a public health emergency and announced a strategy for law enforcement and health professionals across the country to combat the opioid crisis, with an emphasis on improving access to prevention, treatment, and recovery support services.

This year, the Coconino County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) has been awarded a grant from the Arizona Attorney General’s Office for Local and Tribal Government Opioid Abatement in the amount of $2.5 million. At the August 9 Board of Supervisors meeting, the Board took swift action to authorize the addition of the grant funds to the CCSO budget. With these funds, CCSO now commence a collaborative partnership with the Jail District and Coconino County Health and Human Services to provide a new service and support-oriented diversion program focusing on assisting those recovering from opioid addiction in their recovery and re-entry into the community.

Coconino County Health and Human Services Ready to Respond to Monkeypox

by Community Contributor • August 9, 2022 • Comments Off

Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS), in partnership with state and federal partners, is responding to the recent increase in monkeypox illness in the United States. Although no cases have been identified in Coconino County, 102 monkeypox cases have been reported in Arizona as of August 5, 2022, and more than 7,000 cases have been identified in 49 states, according to the Centers for Disease Control and prevention (CDC).

Arguments Sought ‘For’ and ‘Against’ Coconino County Jail District Tax Extension

by Community Contributor • August 5, 2022 • Comments Off

Coconino County’s jail system is administered and operated through a Jail District (District) by the Coconino County Sheriff, who is delegated by Arizona Revised Statutes as keeper of the jail. The District is currently funded by a half-cent excise tax, which expires in 2027. The Coconino County Board of Supervisors serves as the Jail District Board of Directors.

On the upcoming General Election ballot, the District Board of Directors will ask Coconino County voters to extend the existing Jail District tax for maintaining and operating Coconino County jails for 25 years until 2052.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up — Aug. 1-5, 2022

by Community Contributor • August 4, 2022 • Comments Off

Native American Heritage Days take place this weekend on North Rim

The 27th Annual North Rim, Native American Heritage Days will take place on the grounds of Grand Canyon Lodge, this Friday, August 5, through Sunday, August 7.

Heritage Days provide visitors and staff with the opportunity to experience and celebrate the rich cultural diversity of the Colorado Plateau, Arizona Strip, and the Grand Canyon region. Starting around 9:30 a.m. each day, special programs will be presented by tribal members on a variety of subjects, including, astronomy, cultural connections, and Native American music and dance performances. A variety of cultural artisan demonstrations will also be taking place, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. each day.

Some of this year’s demonstrators will include:

Richard Graymountain from Southern Paiute – Basket Weaving
Jessica Lomatewama – Hopi – Katsina Carving and Basket Weaving
Henry Nez Dine (Navajo) – Silversmith Jewelry making
Duane Maktima – Hopi/Laguna Pueblo – Silver Jewelry/metalsmithing
Leann & Tavavee Shearer “Kaivavich” Kaibab Paiute – traditional clothing creation
Lyle Harvey Dine Navajo – Loom Construction/Weaving

A full flyer of all the Heritage Days Demonstrators is available here.

Heritage Days began in 1993 as “Paiute Days” which celebrated the Paiute, the tribe most associated with Grand Canyon’s North Rim. In 1997, the event was expanded to include all 11 of Grand Canyon’s Associated Tribes with cultural ties to the canyon.

The schedule for each day is available on the Park’s website and mobile app, by clicking on the “calendar” button. A full flyer on the event is also available here.

Board of Supervisors Approves Transfer of Emergency Funds to Flood Control District

by Community Contributor • July 29, 2022 • Comments Off

The Coconino County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved the immediate transfer of $5 million from the General Fund’s emergency reserve to the County’s Flood Control District to address the ongoing costs of flood response and mitigation.

In a special session on Tuesday, the Coconino County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved the immediate transfer of $5 million from the General Fund’s emergency reserve to the County’s Flood Control District to address the ongoing costs of flood response and mitigation in the Schultz-Pipeline and West Pipeline flood areas.

City of Flagstaff receives federal funding for Pipeline West flooding mitigation project

by Community Contributor • July 29, 2022 • Comments Off

The City of Flagstaff has received notification that the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) will provide $2.4M in assistance to the City for the Schultz Creek Sediment and Flood Mitigation Detention Basins project through the NRCS’s Emergency Watershed Protection program.

The Schultz Creek Sediment and Flood Mitigation Detention Basins project will mitigate post-wildfire flooding from the Pipeline Fire, which burned over 1,000 acres of the Schultz Creek watershed in June 2022 and resulted in an increased risk of post-wildfire flooding for neighborhoods downstream, including Coyote Springs, Coconino Estates, Downtown and the Southside. The project will detain over 40 acre-feet of water and sediment, thereby reducing life and safety threats as well as the risk of post-wildfire flooding.

Apply for the Flagstaff Citizen’s Police Academy

by Community Contributor • July 29, 2022 • Comments Off

We are now accepting applications for the Flagstaff Police Department’s Fall Citizen’s Police Academy Class.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up — July 25-29, 2022

by Community Contributor • July 28, 2022 • Comments Off

Community level HIGH–masking requirement indoors remains in place

As of Thursday, July 28, Coconino County remains in High Community Level and masking requirements will remain in place at least until Thursday, August 4.

The CDC Community Level tracks a county’s ability to provide health care to COVID patients. In Arizona, 10 counties are in High. Across the United States, 42% of counties are in High, 38% of counties are in Medium, and 20% are in Low. Due to the High Community level, masks are required indoors within all government facilities, vehicles and shuttle busses, as well as commercial facilities operating within the park.

Flagstaff declares State of Emergency for 2022 Post Pipeline Fire Flooding Response

by Community Contributor • July 27, 2022 • Comments Off

lagstaff’s Mayor Paul Deasy declared a State of Emergency on behalf of the City of Flagstaff due to the impacts of monsoonal flooding in areas impacted by post-Pipeline Fire flooding that started on July 16, 2022.

Dragon Fire holding and meeting resource objectives at 1,309 acres

by Community Contributor • July 27, 2022 • Comments Off

Over the last several days, the Dragon Fire has been holding at approximately 1,309 acres in size. The 135-personnel assigned fire has had minimal spread due to monsoonal precipitation over the Kaibab Plateau.

Naturally ignited wildland fires play an important role in fire-adapted ecosystems by reducing dead wood accumulations to ash and releasing nutrients that stimulate new plant growth, and helping to regulate insect and disease levels. These fires also create a mosaic of burned and unburned vegetation, which increases habitat diversity and breaks up continuous fuels on the forest floor (branches, fallen trees, etc.) which can help limit or slow the intensity and spread of large wildfires in the future.

Supervisor Jeronimo Vasquez District 2 Newsletter — 14th Edition

by Community Contributor • July 22, 2022 • Comments Off

Message from Jeronimo
Flood and Fire Resources
District 2 Highlights
Service Positions Open in District 2
Services and Programs
And more!

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up — July 18-22, 2022

by Community Contributor • July 21, 2022 • Comments Off

In this edition:

Community level HIGH–masking requirement indoors remains in place
Arizona and Grand Canyon Community Statistics
Vaccine Clinics in Grand Canyon and Tusayan on August 2
Reporting COVID symptoms is critical to limiting exposure and keeping our staff and community safe
Water conservation begins for South Rim Friday, July 22
Dragon Fire grows to 200 acres on North Rim
Tuweep day use pilot reservation program takes effect Thursday, July 21
Transcanyon Waterline Project Contract Solicitation
Closure of southwest boundary/Rowe Well Road beginning August 2
Desert View Construction update
Tusayan Pueblo Stabilization-2022
More …

North Rim Dragon Fire updates now available on Inciweb

by Community Contributor • July 21, 2022 • Comments Off

Why is there smoke? Dragon Fire on the North Rim

This lightning cause wildfire is being managed for resource benefits including improved wildlife habitat and forest health.

Fire personnel are containing the wildfire in areas where it may pose threats to park resources or visitor safety

Vacancy Announced for Arizona Commission on Judicial Performance Review

by Community Contributor • July 18, 2022 • Comments Off

The Arizona Supreme Court has announced a vacancy for a public member representing Coconino County on the Arizona Commission on Judicial Performance Review. Coconino County invites all interested applicants to review the requirements and submit an application before the July 29 deadline.

The Arizona Commission on Judicial Performance Review meets four to six times a year in Phoenix. Members are volunteers and are reimbursed for travel expenses. Service on this Commission involves active participation with a commitment to attend most, if not all, of the meetings.

United Way of Northern Arizona — How Agencies Came Together During This Fire Season

by Community Contributor • July 14, 2022 • Comments Off

In less than two months this spring, three major wildfires dominated our news as they charred land, displaced residents, and destroyed structures in their path.

One of the few silver linings during those eight weeks was how well individuals, nonprofit organizations and local governments came together to deal with the crises.

“What I find in Coconino County is that everyone works together like a family,” said Joel Bunis, who joined Coconino County Health and Human Services in January as its Outbreak Response Division Manager. “It’s all about connecting people with what they need.”

Red Cross Disaster Services Seeking Flagstaff Supervisor

by Community Contributor • July 14, 2022 • Comments Off

We are currently seeking a Disaster Services Supervisor (Flagstaff, AZ) to work in our Flagstaff, AZ chapter. This position will work 8:00am to 5:00pm Monday through Friday, and some weekends and evenings will be required during times of business need. Travel will also be involved up to 35% of the time.

Flood risk assessment map available for Pipeline West area

by Community Contributor • July 6, 2022 • Comments Off

Some homes and businesses in Flagstaff face a heightened risk of post wildfire flooding due to the Pipeline Fire. Residents who live in the northwest area of Flagstaff, including the neighborhoods of Creighton Estates, Forest Hills, Lynwood, Cheshire, Valley Crest, Coyote Springs, Ridge Crest, Coconino Estates, and Rock Ridge Estates are encouraged to visit flagstaff.az.gov/PipelineWest to view the flood risk assessment map and determine how their residence is impacted.

Fire restrictions lifted at Grand Canyon National Park

by Community Contributor • June 29, 2022 • Comments Off

Effective immediately, Stage 2 fire restrictions are rescinded for the entire Grand Canyon National Park. Increased monsoonal activity throughout northern Arizona has significantly lowered the fire danger risk within the last week.

Grand Canyon National Park will remain in Stage 1 fire restrictions which requires that a campfire always be in a designated fire ring within a maintained campground. Inner canyon users can use gas cook stoves, but campfires and other open fires are never allowed below the rim. River users should continue to follow the conditions of their permit regarding fires along the Colorado River.

City of Flagstaff lifts fire restrictions

by Community Contributor • June 28, 2022 • Comments Off

The City of Flagstaff will lift current fire restrictions and return to Stage 0 fire restrictions on Tuesday, June 28 at 12 p.m. (noon).

Under Stage 0 fire restrictions,

Smoking and use of electronic cigarettes are prohibited in all public places within the City of Flagstaff, including City Parks, Open Spaces, and the Flagstaff Urban Trail System (FUTS) at all times.

Self-fill sandbag stations available in west Flagstaff for residents impacted by Pipeline Fire

by Community Contributor • June 27, 2022 • Comments Off

The City of Flagstaff has established two self-filling sandbag stations for those impacted by the Pipeline Fire who live on the west side of Flagstaff. The first station is in Thorpe Park, at the parking lot at the north end of N. Aztec St. between Frances Short Pond and the softball fields. The second station is located at the intersection of Schultz Pass Rd and E Mt Elden Lookout Rd. (commonly called the Schultz “Y”). Maps of these locations are attached.

BAER team completes Soil Burn Severity map for Pipeline Fire

by Community Contributor • June 27, 2022 • Comments Off

Forest Service Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) specialists recently completed their field data evaluation to produce the Soil Burn Severity (SBS) map for the Pipeline Fire, which delineate unburned, low, moderate, and high SBS categories.

The BAER team assessing the Pipeline Fire determined that approximately 1,310 acres (1%) of the fire is unburned, approximately 15,004 acres (56%) have low soil burn severity, approximately 9,141 acres (34%) sustained a moderate SBS and approximately 1,315 acres (5%) were identified as having high SBS.

Coconino County enters into Stage 3 Fire Restrictions

by Community Contributor • June 20, 2022 • Comments Off

Coconino County entered Stage 3 Fire Restrictions at 3 p.m. Friday, June 17, 2022. The restrictions apply for all of Coconino County.

Fire restrictions are enacted to help protect public health and safety by reducing the number of human-caused wildfires.

This ordinance applies to unincorporated areas, namely that part of Coconino County outside the corporate limits of any municipality, federally owned land, or any federally recognized tribe in accordance with 25 Code of Federal Regulations part 83.

Stage 3 Fire Restrictions prohibit any combustion, open fire, charcoal, propane, and campfires in unincorporated areas and residences in the County.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: June 13-17, 2022

by Community Contributor • June 20, 2022 • Comments Off

Grand Canyon Star Party 2022

The 32nd annual Grand Canyon Star Party will be held from Saturday, June 18, 2022, through Saturday, June 25, 2022, on both South and North rims of Grand Canyon National Park. National parks such as Grand Canyon are protective havens for some of the last remaining dark skies in the United States. This is the first onsite event since 2019.

The event is sponsored by the National Park Service, the Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association (South Rim), and the Saguaro Astronomy Club of Phoenix (North Rim), with funding from Grand Canyon Conservancy and in partnership with the International Dark-Sky Association.

Amateur astronomers from across the country will volunteer their telescopes and expertise for the enjoyment of park visitors. Numerous telescopes will offer views of planets Jupiter, Saturn, and Mars, as well as double stars, star clusters, nebulae, distant galaxies—and the Moon, earlier in the week. By day, keep an eye out for solar telescopes pointed at the sun. Weather permitting, expect spectacular views of the universe!

For additional information on the Grand Canyon Star Party visit http://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/grand-canyon-star-party.htm, or contact Rader Lane at 928-638-7641.

Flagstaff hosts community volunteer day on June 18 in areas impacted by Museum Fire flooding

by Community Contributor • June 17, 2022 • Comments Off

The City of Flagstaff is hosting a community volunteer day in areas downstream of the Museum Fire burn scar on Saturday, June 18. Volunteers will be assisting residents who are elderly or have a disability repair their emergency sandbag mitigation. To request volunteer assistance, please call 928-213-2102 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Resources are limited, and crews will address as many properties as time and resources allow.

‘READY, SET, GO’ Status Changes for Elden Lookout Road, Doney Park South, and Alpine Ranchos East

by Community Contributor • June 16, 2022 • Comments Off

After meeting with the Great Basin Type 1 team managing the Pipeline and Haywire Fires, it has been determined that it is safe to downgrade some areas on evacuation status.

The following changes will be effective immediately:

Areas of Coconino and Kaibab national forests to close this weekend

by Community Contributor • June 16, 2022 • Comments Off

oconino and Kaibab national forests will temporarily close certain areas to public access beginning Friday and Saturday due to fire danger and for public safety, while all other parts of the national forests outside of the closure areas remain in Stage 2 fire restrictions.

On the Kaibab National Forest, the area of Bill Williams Mountain will be closed beginning Friday, June 17 at 8 a.m. Specifically, public access will be prohibited on all National Forest System lands, roads, and trails within the closure area, generally located between County Road (CR) 73, Old Route 66 in the City of Williams, Forest Road (FR) 122, FR 108, and I-40. This includes Benham Trail, Bixler Saddle Trail, Bill Williams Mountain Trail, Bill Williams Connector Trail, Buckskinner Trail, City of Williams Link Trail, Devil Dog Loop Trail, and Clover Spring Loop Trail. Forest Road 122 will also be closed. FR 108 will remain drivable; however, motorists cannot park off the road.

City of Flagstaff to enter Stage 3 Fire Restrictions

by Community Contributor • June 15, 2022 • Comments Off

The City of Flagstaff will enter Stage 3 Fire Restrictions at 8 a.m. on Friday, June 17.

Stage 3 Fire Restrictions include the following new restrictions:

The use of propane and gas BBQs (including those with an on-off switch) is prohibited in City parks, open spaces, and private campgrounds.
The use of propane and gas BBQs (including those with an on-off switch) are allowed at private residences EXCEPT during a Red Flag Warning.
Public access to sections of the Flagstaff Urban Trails System (FUTS) that provide an entrance into any closed area of the Coconino National Forest is prohibited.
In the event of a complete closure of the Coconino National Forest, public entry/use of Observatory Mesa and Picture Canyon City Open Space lands is prohibited.

Bilingual report — Coconino County Museum Flood Risk Advisory June 2022

by Community Contributor • June 15, 2022 • Comments Off

There remains a very strong likelihood of hazardous flash flooding as a result of the Museum Fire. The hydrology consultant for the Coconino County Flood Control District (District) recently conducted a post-fire flood risk analysis that validated the original model used to gauge flood risk in the Museum Flood Area and determined that the area remains at high risk for hazardous flash flooding. It must be noted that floodwaters can create unpredictable changes, which can create new flood paths, which cannot be predicted.

Pipeline Fire at 22,888 acres, 31% containment | Haywire Fire at 5,065 acres, 0% containment

by Community Contributor • June 15, 2022 • Comments Off

The Type 1 Great Basin Incident Management Team (IMT) 2 has arrived at the Pipeline and Haywire fires, and is shadowing the Type 2 California Interagency IMT 15. The Type 1 team will assume command of the incident 6 a.m. Thursday.

The Pipeline Fire is currently 22,888 acres with 31% containment and the Haywire Fire is estimated at 5,065 acres with no containment.

While critical fire weather continues due to dry conditions and high temperatures, lower wind speeds allowed aerial operations to resume and continue throughout the day.

Museum Fire flood area siren alerting system testing and protocol Siren testing scheduled for Friday, June 17 from noon to 2 p.m.

by Community Contributor • June 15, 2022 • Comments Off

The Museum Fire flood area siren alerting system has been installed in the Grandview Homes and Sunnyside neighborhoods and full-volume testing has been scheduled for Friday, June 17 from 12 – 2 p.m. During the full-volume testing period, residents in the area will hear an alarm sound, followed by a voice message repeated three times in both English and Spanish, concluding with a wind down siren sound signifying the end of that message. This process may repeat several times during the testing period. Testing may be postponed in the event of rain or impacts from nearby wildfires.

It is important to note that the wind down siren sound does not signify the end of the threat of a flood event. To hear the siren sounds that will be used or to read more about the Museum Fire flood area siren alerting system, please visit https://www.museumfloodprojects.com/sirensystem.

Cinder Lake Landfill closed due to Pipeline Fire

by Community Contributor • June 13, 2022 • Comments Off

Effective immediately, the City of Flagstaff Cinder Lake Landfill is closed due to the Pipeline Fire. The Hazardous Products Center at the landfill is also closed. Please avoid the area.

Refer to Coconino County’s Pipeline Fire website for up-to-date information:https://www.coconino.az.gov/2926/Pipeline-Fire

United Way of Northern Arizona — From Fire Recovery to KinderCamp™ – We Need Volunteers

by Community Contributor • June 2, 2022 • Comments Off

On the surface, you wouldn’t think the post-Tunnel Fire recovery efforts and the KinderCamp™ program have much to do with each other. One is about cleaning up the debris so families can rebuild after a devastating fire; the other is about making sure children entering kindergarten are ready for their first day of school.

The common thread? Both require volunteer support, and we’re hoping you can spare a few hours in the coming days and weeks to help.

The NAU Review — One of the greatest in NAU history

by Community Contributor • May 26, 2022 • Comments Off

NAU’s track & field teams swept the Big Sky Conference Outdoor Championship for the second consecutive season, claiming their all-time 24th men’s title and 13th women’s title. The Lumberjacks have now swept the Big Sky cross country, indoor and outdoor team team championship titles in the same calendar year for the third time in program history. Coach Mike Smith called the weekend one that he will not forget.

Grand Canyon Implements Stage 2 Fire Restrictions May 26

by Community Contributor • May 25, 2022 • Comments Off

U.S. Department of Interior National Park Service Grand Canyon National Park P.O Box 129 Grand Canyon, AZ 86023 Contact: Office of Communications 928-638-7779 www.nps.gov/grca For high resolution photos visit Grand Canyon’s Flickr Site. Grand Canyon News Release For Immediate Release May 25,…

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Coconino County Recognizes Mental Health Awareness Month

by Community Contributor • May 25, 2022 • Comments Off

The Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth has joined other organizations in Arizona in recognizing the month of May as National Mental Health Month, which raises awareness of the impacts of trauma on the physical, emotional, and mental well-being of children, families and communities.

Most recently, the Coalition took part in the Children’s Mental Health Acceptance Week Northern Arizona Community Resource Fair on May 21 in the parking lot area of the Flagstaff City Hall.

A dozen information booths provided families with resources on youth mental heath issues.

The event was presented by Family Involvement Center, Health CHOICE Integrated Care, Arizona Complete Health and CARE1st.

Other participants included Child & Family Support Services, the Cancer Support Community — Arizona, Hopebridge Autism Therapy Centers, Mercy Care, Coconino County Health & Human Services’ Tobbaco and Chronic Disease Prevention Program, Building Communities, Four Directions, Raising Special Kids and Native American Disability Law Center.

***

The Coalition also took part in the Walk For Mental Health Celebration held on May 14 at Buffalo Park, Flagstaff. The event was sponsored by Stronger As One, Flagstaff Youth Riders (FLYRS), Coconino County Health & Human Services, Native Americans for Community Action (NACA) and the AZ Health Zone.

Participants received free t-shirts or backpacks, with families enjoying the walk around Buffalo Park which included music provided by local artists.

City of Flagstaff will enter Stage 2 fire restrictions on May 26

by Community Contributor • May 24, 2022 • Comments Off

The City of Flagstaff will enter Stage 2 fire restrictions on Thursday, May 26.

The City of Flagstaff is currently in Stage 1.

The City of Flagstaff cooperates with local, county, state, and federal fire management agencies to ensure a coordinated effort is made in fire restrictions actions across jurisdictions.

Congestion tips for visiting Grand Canyon National Park this Memorial Day weekend

by Community Contributor • May 24, 2022 • Comments Off

Visitors to Grand Canyon National Park this Memorial Day weekend should expect long lines and full parking lots. Traffic regularly backs up at all entrance stations, with the longest wait times between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Parking lots, especially near the Grand Canyon Visitor Center, will reach capacity by 12 p.m. and shuttle bus lines will be long.

Visitors should follow these tips in preparing to visit the South Rim:

Installation has begun on Museum Fire flood area siren alerting system

by Community Contributor • May 20, 2022 • Comments Off

The City of Flagstaff (City) and the Coconino County Flood Control District (District), with significant financial support from the AZ Depart. of Forestry and Fire Management, have begun installing a siren alerting system to help warn residents of imminent flooding in neighborhoods downstream of the Museum Fire burn scar. Four elevated high power speaker arrays will be installed throughout the Grandview Homes and Sunnyside neighborhoods and will emit alarm sounds and voice messages when rain thresholds are triggered within the Museum Fire burn scar.

City of Flagstaff to enter Stage 1 Fire Restrictions on May 5

by Community Contributor • May 2, 2022 • Comments Off

The City of Flagstaff will enter Stage 1 Fire Restrictions at 8 a.m. on May 5, 2022.

Under Stage 1 Fire Restrictions,

The sale or use of consumer-grade fireworks is prohibited.
The use of charcoal and wood-fired BBQs are prohibited in City parks and open spaces.
Charcoal and wood-fired BBQs are still allowed at private residences and private campgrounds within city limits.

Fire restrictions to begin May 5 on Kaibab and Coconino National Forests

by Community Contributor • May 2, 2022 • Comments Off

Beginning Thursday, May 5 at 8:00 a.m., Stage 1 fire and smoking restrictions will be in effect on the Williams and Tusayan Districts (aka “South Zone”) of the Kaibab National Forest and the entirety of the Coconino National Forest.

Under Stage 1 restrictions, fires, campfires, charcoal, coal, and wood stoves are prohibited, except within a developed recreation site. Smoking is also prohibited, except within an enclosed vehicle, building or a developed recreation site. Fireworks are always prohibited on all national forest and state lands.

Burned Area Emergency Response Team assessing Tunnel Fire damage

by Community Contributor • May 2, 2022 • Comments Off

A Forest Service Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) team began surveying the fire-affected areas within the Tunnel Fire perimeter this past Saturday.

BAER team assessments are rapid evaluations of post-fire conditions of the burned landscape. These assessments determine the level of risk from potential flooding and debris flow, and calculate how these risks will affect both human safety and the natural and cultural resources in the area.

The Tunnel Fire BAER team, led by Forest Service Hydrologist Brendan Waterman, will conduct field surveys, and use science-based models to rapidly evaluate and assess the burned area.

Tunnel Fire Evacuation Status Downgrade from ‘SET’ to ‘READY’

by Community Contributor • April 28, 2022 • Comments Off

The communities along the Highway 89 corridor, north of Flagstaff, from Campbell Avenue to the north entrance of Forest Service Road 545 (Wupatki National Monument) will be downgraded from “SET” (Pre-evacuation) to “READY” status.

“READY” status means- you are aware of and monitoring fire activity in your area. You should have basic plans in place for yourselves, important documents, medications, pets and livestock in the event that a “GO” message is received.

Tunnel Fire Morning Update – Thursday April 28, 2022

by Community Contributor • April 28, 2022 • Comments Off

Current Situation: Containment on the Tunnel Fire increased to 43% on Wednesday evening due to firefighters’ continued hard work to mop up and secure the fire’s perimeter in the Sunset Crater National Monument and Black Mountain areas.

City of Flagstaff statement on the Tunnel Fire

by Community Contributor • April 26, 2022 • Comments Off

City of Flagstaff elected officials and staff have been closely following the events surrounding the Tunnel Fire and are deeply saddened by the fire’s impacts on families and neighborhoods in the area.

The City has played a supporting role in addressing this catastrophic event. After receiving a request for assistance, City of Flagstaff Fire Department units, in addition to units from Summit Fire and Medical District, Highlands Fire District and other first responders were on scene to fight the fire and defend values at risk.

Tunnel Fire Community Meeting on Saturday, April 23 at Sinagua Middle School

by Community Contributor • April 22, 2022 • Comments Off

A Tunnel Fire Community Meeting will be held 2:00 p.m. Saturday, April 23, at Sinagua Middle School, 3950 E. Butler Avenue, Flagstaff (parking information below).

This meeting is to provide an update regarding the fire conditions, potential flood risk, and evacuation status.

Representatives from the County, Sheriff’s Office, U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Weather Service, and Tunnel Fire Type 1 Incident Management Team will provide information on these topics and be available to answer questions. American Sign Language interpretation will be available at the meeting.

Overnight Tunnel Fire Activity

by Community Contributor • April 22, 2022 • Comments Off

On April 22, 2022 in the early morning hours a spot fire started in the Timberline Community west of Hwy 89 in the “GO” evacuation area.

Deputies and Officers working overnight security in the evacuated areas recontacted the residents who refused to initially evacuate on Tuesday to notify them of the increased danger and remind them of the “GO” evacuation order. This fire was in the area of Wupatki Trails, Lenox Park, Pumpkin Patch, and Brandis Trail neighborhoods. Deputies and Officers went door to door and used sirens and loudspeakers in an attempt to wake residents to warn them of the fire threat.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up — April 18-22, 2022

by Community Contributor • April 21, 2022 • Comments Off

When emergencies happen, be the first to know.

The Coconino County Emergency Notification System uses Alerts powered by Rave Mobile Safety’s Smart911 to send official, real-time alerts to the public with information about potentially life-saving actions you may need to take to keep you and your family safe.

This service allows you to receive voice, text, and email emergency notifications generated by Grand Canyon Dispatch and public safety officials. More information on this program can be found on the county’s website and a link to sign up can be found here.

Tunnel Fire Update — Crews continue to focus on key areas to protect structures, keep the fire from moving up steep slopes

by Community Contributor • April 21, 2022 • Comments Off

April 21, 2022 — Residences, buildings, and watersheds that drain near them are currently the main emphasis for firefighters battling the now 20,511 acre Tunnel Fire 14 miles northeast of Flagstaff.

Overnight crews continued cooling hotspots in the Timberline Estates and Wupatki Trail subdivisions, as well as worked to contain multiple spot fires on the fire’s western flank near Forest Road 420 (Schultz Pass Road). These efforts were instrumental in keeping the fire from burning up steep slopes toward Schultz Peak and may help to minimize post-fire flood impacts.

Mask mandate lifted at Flagstaff Pulliam Airport

by Community Contributor • April 20, 2022 • Comments Off

Effective immediately, the City of Flagstaff has lifted the mask mandate at the Flagstaff Pulliam Airport following an announcement from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). The TSA announced that it will no longer be enforcing masking on public transportation due to a recent federal court ruling.

Flying patrons or visitors to the Flagstaff Pulliam Airport will have the choice to wear or not wear a mask.

The NAU Review — 10 ways NAU attacks wildfires, the next phase of quantum computing and HAPA’s annual lu’au

by Community Contributor • March 31, 2022 • Comments Off

In 2020, federal fire agencies spent a whopping $2.2 billion—that’s billion with a “B”—fighting fires. That number has increased tenfold in the last few decades. For Southwest Wildfire Awareness Week, take a look at NAU’s diverse efforts to increase forest health, improve firefighting capabilities, help communities become more resilient and rebuild after a fire and better understand fire behavior.

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