Category: Public Safety

Jay Smith appointed Interim Flood Control Administrator

by Community Contributor • October 13, 2026 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County Manager Andy Bertelsen appointed Forest Restoration Director Jay Smith to the role of Interim Flood Control District Administrator following the retirement of Lucinda Andreani.

“Jay Smith brings valuable leadership experience and a strong understanding of Coconino County’s natural resources and land management challenges to this interim role. His work as Forest Restoration Director has given him important insight into the interconnected issues of watershed health, forest management and community resilience,” Bertelsen said. “I appreciate Jay’s willingness to take on this additional responsibility and am confident he will help ensure the Flood Control District continues to meet its mission of protecting our communities and residents.”

Grand Canyon Community Update – Oct. 9, 2026

by Community Contributor • October 9, 2026 • Comments Off

A Message to Our Grand Canyon Community: Every Drop Counts

This community has met every challenge the canyon has thrown at it with grit and generosity. These past weeks have tested us, and you have answered with patience, cooperation, and care for one another. Thank you.

As the park scales back the temporary resident water services starting Friday, Oct. 9, we want to acknowledge what you’ve already accomplished. You have adapted your routines, supported your neighbors and worked together to conserve water during Stage 4 restrictions.

Pile burns planned next week on Flagstaff, Mogollon Rim ranger districts

by Community Contributor • October 9, 2026 • Comments Off

The Coconino National Forest is planning to conduct pile burns next week as conditions allow. Pile burns are a type of prescribed fire. Certified prescribed fire specialists will use these upcoming pile burns to help reduce unwanted fuels – notably by cleaning up debris left over from area timber sales. More information about the importance of prescribed fire is available on the Coconino National Forest website at https://www.fs.usda.gov/r03/coconino/fire/management

Get the latest news updates from U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly (D-AZ) including ‘Support Rolls in from Policymakers and National Organizations for Kelly’s Make AI Work for Americans Act’

by Community Contributor • October 9, 2026 • Comments Off

Click below for the latest news updates from the:

Office of U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly

Get the latest news updates from Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes including ‘Attorney General Mayes Urges Arizona Corporation Commission to Investigate Whether APS Customers Subsidized Data Centers and Other Large Energy Users’

by Community Contributor • October 9, 2026 • Comments Off

Click below for the latest news updates from the:

Office Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes

Fire managers plan prescribed fires on Williams Ranger District beginning Oct. 8

by Community Contributor • October 8, 2026 • Comments Off

WILLIAMS — Kaibab National Forest fire managers plan to begin ignitions on over 3,200 acres of prescribed fire units on the Williams Ranger District tomorrow, which will produce noticeable smoke in and around the community of Pumpkin Center and Kendrick Mountain Wilderness, and south of the Bill Williams Mountain area and from South Perkinsville Road.

We use prescribed fires to help reduce overgrown vegetation to help protect local communities, infrastructure and natural resources from wildfires.

Fire managers plan prescribed fires in Jacob Lake area beginning this week

by Community Contributor • October 5, 2026 • Comments Off

FREDONIA — Kaibab National Forest fire managers plan to begin ignitions on prescribed fire units on the North Kaibab Ranger District in the Jacob Lake area this week, which will produce noticeable smoke in and around the Jacob Lake and Fredonia areas and along highways 89A and 67.

We use prescribed fires to help reduce overgrown vegetation to help protect local communities, infrastructure and natural resources from wildfires.

City of Flagstaff — Community Feedback on Potential Drones as First Responders Program

by Community Contributor • October 2, 2026 • Comments Off

FLAGSAFF — The City of Flagstaff is considering the addition of Drones as First Responders to the resources used in providing public safety to the community. The use of drones can improve response times due to their ability to move beyond traffic and trains. The drones create efficiencies by getting eyes on the ground quickly so the City knows what public safety resources are needed. Like body worn cameras, this drone footage will be beneficial evidence to support attorneys, judges, jury members, and victims.

Grand Canyon Community Update – Sept. 28, 2026

by Community Contributor • September 28, 2026 • Comments Off

Community Potable Water Tank Update

The Bright Angel Flash Flood Incident Management Team has updated the size and, in some cases, location, of potable water storage tanks throughout Grand Canyon Village in order to serve residents who have relied on the tanks during the current water emergency.

The potable water tank placement plan was developed with input from park leadership and based off usage reports. There are a total of 16 tanks at various locations, for a total of approximately 15,000 gallons. Although the total amount of water has been reduced, it still exceeds the average daily use of approximately 6,000 gallons per day.

Fire managers igniting pile burns west, north of Flagstaff today (Sept. 28)

by Community Contributor • September 28, 2026 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — Fire managers will be igniting piles in the Walker Hill and Kendrick Park area today, which will produce noticeable smoke to those in and around Flagstaff.

Coconino County court system convened an all-day strategic planning forum to help determine the types of services the courts should provide by the year 2045

by Community Contributor • September 23, 2026 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — The Coconino County court system, with funding support from the State Justice Institute and strategic facilitation by Dr. Nancy Wonders and Dr. Fred Solop, convened an all-day strategic planning forum on Sept. 17 at the High Country Conference Center. Stakeholders provided input and assistance in determining the types of services the courts should provide by the year 2045.

Grand Canyon Community Update – Sept. 19, 2026

by Community Contributor • September 21, 2026 • Comments Off

Free community showers

Free shower facilities are available to Grand Canyon residents until further notice. Residents are strongly encouraged to use these facilities whenever possible to reduce household water use and help conserve the park’s limited water supply. This week ADA showers were also placed at four locations throughout the park.

The NAU Review — Robotics on the Navajo Nation + can we forecast the next pandemic?

by Community Contributor • September 17, 2026 • Comments Off

Igniting a love of STEM in Tuba City

They say success is nothing without someone to share it with. That’s certainly true in Tuba City, a small community on the Navajo Nation: Whenever any of its citizens score a big win, the town always shows up to celebrate. That’s why, armed with $50,000 from the National Science Foundation, researchers at NAU’s Center for STEM Teaching and Learning aren’t just partnering with Tuba City educators to improve STEM learning opportunities. They’re also working with town leaders to brainstorm ways to celebrate the kids’ success, from public robotics challenges to parades.

Crews assessing new damage following second flash flood event at Grand Canyon National Park

by Community Contributor • September 17, 2026 • Comments Off

GRAND CANYON, Ariz. — Grand Canyon National Park crews are assessing damage after an additional flash flood moved through Bright Angel Canyon Wednesday afternoon, damaging temporary water infrastructure being constructed as part of the park’s ongoing recovery from the Aug. 29 flood.

There were no reported injuries. With severe weather approaching and flash flood warnings in effect, the National Park Service had reduced the number of personnel working in the canyon. Crews remaining in the area were able to reach safety before the flood moved through. The affected area remains closed to public access.

Oak Creek temporary closure lifts this week

by Community Contributor • September 15, 2026 • Comments Off

SEDONA — The temporary closure of Oak Creek that has been ongoing since July will be lifted on Thursday (Sep. 17, 2026), allowing for the public to access the creek and nearly all recreation sites along Oak Creek.

Under a new forest order, the West Fork watershed, its trail, and Call of the Canyon will remain closed until Oct. 1, 2026, since that specific watershed had a higher percentage of fire damage and still poses a higher flooding risk.

Oak Creek has been closed to the public since the start of the Pocket Fire in June and remained closed after the fire danger was gone, out of an abundance of caution prior to monsoon so that if any flash flooding occurred no one would be injured or caught in it.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Sept. 7-11, 2026

by Community Contributor • September 14, 2026 • Comments Off

South Rim Water Update — September 11, 2026

The August 29 flash flood caused extensive damage to water infrastructure in Bright Angel Canyon, including portions of the Transcanyon Waterline and the Bright Angel Creek intake. The South Rim remains under Stage 4 water restrictions and is relying on stored water while crews conduct repairs and advance temporary water-supply solutions. We know this has required significant adjustments in homes, workplaces and park operations, and we are deeply grateful to every resident, employee, business, partner and visitor who has helped conserve water during this difficult time.

U.S. Forest Service, Arizona sign agreement to restore forests, protect watersheds, and support rural economies

by Community Contributor • September 14, 2026 • Comments Off

WILLIAMS — The Kaibab National Forest and the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management (DFFM) are partnering to reduce wildfire risk and improve forest health on nearly 14,000 acres of National Forest lands in northern Arizona. Through a new Good Neighbor Agreement (GNA), DFFM will administer forest restoration activities that help protect communities, strengthen water security for millions of Arizonans, conserve natural resources, and support the state’s forest products industry and rural economies.

Flagstaff joins other cities in commemorated the 25th anniversary of 9/11

by Community Contributor • September 11, 2026 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff commemorated the 25th anniversary of 9/11 with a ceremony during the early morning hours of Friday, Sept. 11, 2026.

“Today, we remember and honor the heroes of September 11, 2001, who showed incredible bravery and sacrifice. Flagstaff stands united in reflection, paying tribute to the lives lost and the resilience of our nation,” the city stated on its Facebook page.

The event included the presentation of the Colors and the display of hundreds of flags. The 9/11 Flag Memorial Field honors the 2,977 people who lost their lives on 9/11/2001.

Kaibab National Forest to begin fall prescribed fires

by Community Contributor • September 11, 2026 • Comments Off

WILLIAMS — Kaibab National Forest is planning prescribed fire operations this month, beginning with Moonset Pit as soon as September 20, pending all required approvals. We estimate this work to continue through October as weather conditions allow. We use prescribed fires to help reduce overgrown vegetation to help protect local communities, infrastructure and natural resources from wildfires.

There are numerous project areas across the forest in which crews may be working, including some in the Red Lake and Spring Valley areas, southeast of the Town of Tusayan, and the Jacob Lake and Demotte areas. Visit InciWeb for details and maps of planned burn areas.

City of Flagstaff — Hwy 89 Lane Closures Scheduled on Sept. 9 & 10

by Community Contributor • September 9, 2026 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — As part of the Road Repair and Street Safety Project, the City’s contractor, C & E Paving & Grading, will be repaving the transitions from asphalt to concrete on Highway 89 between Country Club Drive and Cummings Street in both directions on Wednesday Sept. 9 and Thursday Sept. 10.

Grand Canyon National Park announces recovery and repair plan following flash flood

by Community Contributor • September 8, 2026 • Comments Off

GRAND CANYON, Ariz. — Grand Canyon National Park continues response and recovery operations following the significant August 29 flash flood in Bright Angel Canyon and the Phantom Ranch area. Search operations remain active, while crews continue infrastructure assessments, stabilization work and efforts to restore a reliable water supply to the South Rim.

The park now has a path forward to restore water service and, based on current progress, expects that work to take weeks, not months.

Crews are moving forward with construction of a temporary water intake at Bright Angel Creek to replace the intake destroyed by the flood. Engineers are in the canyon designing the temporary intake, the existing Transcanyon Waterline contract has been modified to support the work, and construction activities are beginning this week.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Aug. 31 – Sept. 4, 2026

by Community Contributor • September 3, 2026 • Comments Off

Bright Angel Flash Flood Response and South Rim Water Conservation

Grand Canyon National Park continues response and recovery efforts following the August 29 flash flood in Bright Angel Canyon and the Phantom Ranch area. Search, accountability, infrastructure assessment, and recovery work are ongoing under a Type II Incident Management Team.

Flash Flood Response and Search Efforts

At this time, 82 people have been rescued, two people have been recovered deceased, and one person remains missing. Search efforts for the missing hiker continue with park staff and partner agencies.

The flood caused extensive damage to trails, bridges, utilities, and other infrastructure in the inner canyon. Early assessments indicate that approximately 40% of the Transcanyon Waterline and five to seven miles of the North Kaibab Trail have been severely damaged. Four bridges in the Box were severely damaged or washed away. Assessments are continuing, and these estimates may change as crews learn more about the extent of the damage.

Grand Canyon National Park expands inner canyon closures following Aug. 29 flash flood

by Community Contributor • September 3, 2026 • Comments Off

GRAND CANYON, Ariz. — Grand Canyon National Park continues response and recovery operations following the destructive August 29 flash flood that caused significant damage in Bright Angel Canyon and the Phantom Ranch area.

Park staff and partner agencies are conducting damage assessments and beginning repair and stabilization work in areas where trails, bridges, utilities and other infrastructure were damaged or destroyed. Maintaining safe access for response personnel and keeping visitors out of hazardous areas is critical as this work continues.

Emergency Management Director Tim Carter named Emergency Management Professional of the Year

by Community Contributor • September 3, 2026 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County Emergency Management Director Tim Carter was named the Emergency Management Professional of the Year by the Arizona Association of Emergency Managers (AAEM).

“Coconino County has faced an extraordinary series of emergencies over the last year, from the White Sage Fire and Dragon Bravo Fire to the Pocket Fire and the Grand Canyon flash flood,” District 1 Supervisor and Board Chair Patrice Horstman said. “Throughout each event, Tim demonstrated steady leadership, clear communication and an unwavering commitment to protecting our communities. This award is deeply deserved, and we are grateful for his service.”

Grand Canyon National Park — Public assistance requested to account for individuals following Grand Canyon flash flood. See related news here

by Community Contributor • August 31, 2026 • Comments Off

Grand Canyon National Park, in northern Arizona, encompasses 278 miles (447 km) of the Colorado River and adjacent uplands. Located on the ancestral homeland of 11 Associated Tribes, Grand Canyon is one of the most spectacular examples of erosion anywhere in the world—unmatched in the incomparable vistas it offers visitors on the rim. Grand Canyon National Park is a World Heritage Site. The National Park Service cares for the special places saved by the American people so that all may experience our heritage.

Grand Canyon National Park to close overnight hotel accommodations beginning Aug. 31

by Community Contributor • August 31, 2026 • Comments Off

GRAND CANYON, Ariz. – Grand Canyon National Park will implement Stage 4 water restrictions on the South Rim beginning at noon on August 31 in response to the significant flash flooding that occurred along Bright Angel Canyon on August 29.

The flooding caused extensive damage to infrastructure in the inner canyon, including the Transcanyon Waterline, which supplies water from the canyon for use in the park. The waterline is currently not operational, leaving the park with limited water reserves and requiring significant water conservation measures to ensure available supplies can be maintained.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Aug. 24-28, 2026

by Community Contributor • August 28, 2026 • Comments Off

Grand Canyon Music Festival Concerts Continue this Weekend

The Grand Canyon Music Festival showcases a variety of music types, including classical, contemporary (modern composers and new works) along with Jazz and Blues.

All performances take place in Shrine of the Ages Auditorium. Evening performances are scheduled to take place on Fridays and Saturdays – beginning this Friday, August 21, and running through Saturday, September 5. Doors open at 7 p.m., and the performances begin at 7:30 p.m. Admission is by donation, with a suggested donation of $20.

Details: https://grandcanyonmusicfest.org/concerts/

Friday, August 28 (7:30 p.m.) Cellist Karlos Rodriguez, pianist Silvan Negruƫiu, and harmonica player Robert Bonfiglio perform works Inspired by Friendship. Concert Repertoire: J.S. Bach Suite No. 3 in C Major, BWV 1009 – Benjamin Britten Suite No. 3 for solo cello, Opus 87 – Alberto Ginastera Danzas Argentinas, Opus 2 – Heitor Villa-Lobos Concerto for Harmonica – Dmitri Shostakovich Sonata for Piano and Cello, Opus 40

Unregulated food vendors can pose health threat

by AmigosNAZ.com • August 28, 2026 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS) Environmental Health is reminding community members that eating at an unlicensed food vendor location can pose a high risk of serious foodborne illness. Consuming food from an unlicensed food vendor…

Coconino County — Federal Economic Injury Disaster Loans available to businesses impacted by Pocket Fire. (Help available at sites in Flagstaff, Sedona)

by Community Contributor • August 24, 2026 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — Federal Economic Injury Disaster Loans are now available to businesses impacted by the Pocket Fire.

Coconino County received a Declaration of Economic Injury from the Small Business Administration (SBA) which opens the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program to businesses impacted by the Pocket Fire.

The EIDL program provides 30-year loans with an interest rate as low as four percent. Principal and interest payments are not required in the first year of the loan to help businesses survive the loss of tourism. The program is available to all businesses in Coconino County and Yavapai County, as well as neighboring Gila, La Paz, Maricopa, Mohave and Navajo counties, San Juan and Kane counties in Utah and Tribal Nations.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Aug. 17-21, 2026

by Community Contributor • August 20, 2026 • Comments Off

Grand Canyon Music Festival 43rd Season Starts this Weekend

The Grand Canyon Music Festival showcases a variety of music types, including classical, contemporary (modern composers and new works) along with Jazz and Blues.

Details: https://grandcanyonmusicfest.org/concerts/

South Rim Services Expand as Water conservation measures continue at Grand Canyon National Park

by Community Contributor • August 20, 2026 • Comments Off

GRAND CANYON, Ariz. — Grand Canyon National Park is continuing to ease water conservation measures as water supply levels improve.

Water spigots in Mather and Desert View Campgrounds have been turned on. Camper Services, operated by Delaware North, will reopen to the public on Friday, August 21.

Fire restrictions at Mather and Desert View Campgrounds have been lifted; however, campfires are only permitted in established campfire rings. Visitors and residents are reminded to use caution and practice responsible fire use at all times.

City of Flagstaff — Safe Streets Master Plan seeks community input on transportation future

by Community Contributor • August 19, 2026 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz — The City of Flagstaff, in partnership with MetroPlan, Coconino County, Mountain Line, Northern Arizona University (NAU), and the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT), is developing the Flagstaff Safe Streets Master Plan (SSMP) — a shared vision for how people move throughout the Flagstaff region today and into the future.

The plan will examine the entire transportation system — including streets, sidewalks, bikeways, trails, transit, and regional connections — to make travel safer, easier, more accessible, and better connected for everyone.

City of Flagstaff — Construction to Begin Along a Section of Meade Lane

by Community Contributor • August 19, 2026 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz – Starting Monday, August 31, the City of Flagstaff (City) and their contractor, Eagle Mountain Construction, will begin the Meade Lane Utility Improvements Project. The project, which runs along a section of Meade Lane between Highway 180/Fort Valley Road and the Rio de Flag bridge, consists of: improvements to the stormwater infrastructure, removal and replacement of aging water and sewer utility infrastructure, improvements to the FUTS trail, concrete curb, gutter and driveway entrance repairs and full roadway reconstruction. The project is scheduled to be complete in summer 2027 and is partially funded by the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program from the Federal Emergency Management Administration through the Arizona Department of Emergency and Military Affairs.

City of Flagstaff — Multiple road closures along Lockett Road starting Tuesday, Aug. 18

by Community Contributor • August 17, 2026 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz – Beginning on Tuesday, August 18 Dyer, Childress, King, Wayman, and Walker streets will be closed at Lockett Rd. starting at 5 a.m. for work related to the 2026 Road Repair and Street Project. The work will include concrete curb, gutter and sidewalk replacement in preparation for asphalt paving.

City of Flagstaff — Pedestrian improvements to begin along Fort Valley Road

by Community Contributor • August 12, 2026 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz — Starting Monday, August 17, the City of Flagstaff (City) in partnership with Mountain Line and their contractor, Kinney Construction Services, will begin pedestrian crossing improvements in multiple locations along Fort Valley Road. Pedestrian crossing installation at the Fort Valley Road and Anderson Road/Whiting Road intersection and the Fort Valley Road and Meade Lane intersection will be complete in 2026. Work at the Fort Valley Road and Forest Avenue intersection will be completed at a later time.

Coconino County Attorney’s Office and Navajo Nation launch historic Peacemaking Diversion Program

by Community Contributor • August 12, 2026 • Comments Off

The Peacemaking Diversion Program offers eligible individuals an opportunity to resolve criminal cases through a restorative process that brings together participants, victims, family members and community members to repair harm, promote accountability and strengthen relationships. Successful completion of the program may result in eligible charges being dismissed while providing victims with a meaningful voice in the justice process.

Schultz/Pipeline Flood Mitigation System receives statewide award

by Community Contributor • August 10, 2026 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — The Schultz/Pipeline Flood Mitigation System received the Project of Year Award from the Arizona Chapter of the American Public Works Association at its annual conference last week in Tucson. The award was in the category of Disaster or Emergency Construction/Repair over $75 million. The award selection committee noted the significant engineering and construction that was completed in just over two years, which mitigates much of the flood threat to lives, homes, businesses and public infrastructure near Flagstaff.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: August 3-7, 2026

by Community Contributor • August 7, 2026 • Comments Off

Transcanyon Waterline Repair Continues; Water Restrictions Remain in Effect

Water utility crews continue making progress on repairs to the Transcanyon Waterline break located approximately one mile below Cottonwood Campground along the North Kaibab Trail. As of today, crews are back on site fitting replacement pipe as work advances toward restoring water service.

Upcoming Community Meeting on Aug. 18 for the JW Powell Extension Project

by Community Contributor • August 7, 2026 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz — The City of Flagstaff, Peak Engineering and Banicki Construction invite you to attend a Community Meeting for the upcoming JW Powell Extension Project. The meeting will be held on Tuesday, Aug. 18, between 5 and 6:30 p.m., at the Flagstaff Aquaplex (1702 N Fourth Street). This meeting will allow community members to learn more about the project, including the plan for the area and how it fits into the City’s transportation system. This meeting is an open house format with no formal presentation; join us anytime throughout the meeting. Project team members and City staff will be available to discuss the project and answer questions. Meeting displays and information will be available on our Project Webpage after the meeting for those who cannot attend.

Active Shooter Preparedness Exercise scheduled for Friday, Aug. 7

by Community Contributor • August 3, 2026 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz — The Northern Arizona University Police Department and NAU Emergency Management, in collaboration with the Flagstaff Police Department and City Emergency Management, will conduct an active shooter preparedness exercise on the NAU campus on Friday, Aug. 7.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: July 27-31, 2026

by Community Contributor • July 31, 2026 • Comments Off

Inner Canyon Waterline Repairs Complete

Water has been fully restored to Manzanita Rest Area, Cottonwood Campground, and Phantom Ranch following the successful repair of a break in the Transcanyon Waterline. The pipeline was repressurized, water quality samples were cleared, and the water is once again safe to drink. Pumps at Havasupai Gardens are also operating and delivering water to the South Rim.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: July 20-24, 2026

by Community Contributor • July 24, 2026 • Comments Off

Community Library celebrates Summer Reading Challenge and looks to future
-Caroline Grass, Scientist in Park Intern

As the Grand Canyon Community Library continues to serve residents and visitors and as engagement in their programs increases, plans to better utilize their space in the Old Chase Bank building are underway.

Coconino County responds to call for assistance after flooding in Moenkopi Wash

by Community Contributor • July 24, 2026 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — On July 22, Emergency Declarations were issued by Hopi Tribal Leaders for the Moenkopi Wash area following a monsoon storm. The heavy rains and flooding damaged homes, schools, businesses, roads, fields and washes. Several homes were evacuated.

The declaration for Upper Moenkopi Village asked for assistance from several local, state and federal agencies, including Coconino County. The County deployed assistance from Emergency Management, Public Works and the Flood Control District to clear roads and provide 5,000 sandbags to residents.

The NAU Review — Dispatches from Tonto National Forest, an Etruscan scholar

by Community Contributor • July 22, 2026 • Comments Off

Going underground to measure fire risk

This summer, NAU associate professor Salli Dymond is working with the Salt River Project and the startup company Growvera to install moisture sensors on plants and dead fuel on the forest floor and underground in parts of Tonto National Forest. Over the course of a year, she and her colleagues will monitor the sensors and analyze the data they generate. Dymond said if the sensors provide accurate enough moisture data, they could be a gamechanger in how Arizona officials communicate about and prepare for wildfire season.

Grand Canyon National Park eases South Rim fire restrictions

by Community Contributor • July 22, 2026 • Comments Off

GRAND CANYON, Ariz. — Effective Sunday, July 19, Stage 2 fire restrictions (were) lifted on the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park. Increased monsoonal activity across northern Arizona over the past week has significantly reduced fire danger in the area.

The South Rim will remain in Stage 1 fire restrictions, which require that all campfires be contained in a designated fire ring within a maintained campground. Campfires and other open fires are never allowed below the rim. Inner canyon users may continue to use gas cook stoves. River users should follow the conditions of their permit regarding fires along the Colorado River.

Visitors are urged to take the following precautions:

City of Flagstaff lifts fire restrictions effective July 20

by Community Contributor • July 20, 2026 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz – The City of Flagstaff has lifted current fire restrictions and returned to Stage 0 fire restrictions, effective 6 a.m. on Monday, July 20.

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.

Willard Springs Green Waste Site reopens July 17 for Friday/Saturday green waste disposal

by Community Contributor • July 15, 2026 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — The Willard Springs Green Waste Site will reopen this Friday, July 17 for free green waste-only disposal after a temporary closure to support aerial firefighting operations for the Pocket Fire.

The site was closed on July 1 for public safety so it could serve as a staging area for fire suppression materials used by helicopter firefighting crews.

Willard Springs is open Fridays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Oct. 31. The last load of green waste is accepted through the gate at 4:30 p.m. each operating day. This schedule is subject to change due to weather or unforeseen circumstances.

Flagstaff Fire Chief Mark Gaillard named 2025 Leader of the Year

by Community Contributor • July 7, 2026 • Comments Off

During his time at the City, Chief Gaillard has had many notable accomplishments. He supported efforts to strengthen emergency response by partnering with the Flagstaff Police Department to review and enhance computer‑aided dispatch processes, resulting in more accurate unit deployment and improved response times. When the homeowner’s insurance crisis began impacting Flagstaff residents, Chief Gaillard engaged with state and national groups and worked alongside government officials and insurance representatives to explore long‑term approaches to support wildfire‑resilient neighborhoods.

Areas of Kachina Village, Forest Highlands, and Pine Del will be downgraded from “SET” (Pre-evacuation) to “READY” status

by Community Contributor • July 1, 2026 • Comments Off

The Coconino County Sheriff’s Office is pleased to announce the areas of Kachina Village, Forest Highlands, and Pine Del will be downgraded from “SET” (Pre-evacuation) to “READY” status. The zones for these areas are 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 96, 97, 98, and 99.

While conditions have improved to allow this adjustment, residents will continue to see smoke and fire activity for the foreseeable future.

The decision to downgrade to “SET” status was made in conjunction with the Forest Service’s Critical Incident Management Team. While conditions have improved to allow this adjustment, residents will continue to see smoke and fire activity for the foreseeable future

Willard Springs Green Waste Site temporarily closed to support Pocket Fire Operations

by Community Contributor • July 1, 2026 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — The Willard Springs Green Waste Site has been temporarily closed for public safety to support aerial firefighting operations for the Pocket Fire.

The site is being used as a staging area for fire suppression materials that support aerial firefighting efforts.

Willard Springs Green Waste Site Closed July 4 for Independence Day

by Community Contributor • June 30, 2026 • Comments Off

The site will reopen on Friday, July 10, and return to its regular schedule, offering free green waste-only disposal on Fridays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Saturday, Oct. 31, 2026. The last load of green waste will be accepted through the gate at 4:30 p.m. each operating day.

Asphalt paving scheduled in neighborhoods throughout Flagstaff

by Community Contributor • June 30, 2026 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz – As work continues on the City’s annual Road Repair and Street Safety project, asphalt removal and paving is scheduled in neighborhoods throughout the City in late June and July. Residents on the streets listed below should be prepared for delays and use caution when traveling through the work areas due to the presence of heavy equipment and workers. The City’s contractors will coordinate directly with impacted residents on driveway access and other potential impacts.

City of Flagstaff to enter Stage 2 Fire Restrictions on June 30

by Community Contributor • June 29, 2026 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz – The City of Flagstaff will enter Stage 2 Fire Restrictions at 8 a.m. on Tuesday, June 30.

Stage 2 Fire Restrictions include the following new restrictions:

The use of fire pits and other open flame devices without an on/off switch is prohibited.
The use of charcoal and wood-fired BBQs are prohibited throughout the city, including at private residences and campgrounds.
The use of propane, gas, and pellet BBQs/ smokers with an on-off switch are still allowed throughout the city.

APS Public Safety Power Shutoff anticipated in the Flagstaff area Saturday, June 27

by Community Contributor • June 26, 2026 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz – The City of Flagstaff has been informed that unless there is substantial improvement in weather predictions, Arizona Public Service (APS) will initiate a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) in parts of the Flagstaff area Saturday, June 27 as early as 10 a.m. Some areas in Flagstaff will lose power during this PSPS event. Customers who are impacted have been directly notified by APS.

The following resources are available for impacted residents:

APS may initiate Public Safety Power Shutoff in the Flagstaff area Saturday, June 27

by Community Contributor • June 26, 2026 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff has been informed that Arizona Public Service (APS) may initiate a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) in parts of the Flagstaff area Saturday, June 27 as early as 9 a.m. Some areas on the east side of Flagstaff may lose power during this PSPS event. Customers who are impacted have been directly notified by APS. If your home is impacted, you should begin preparing for 12-24 hours without power.

Grand Canyon National Park — APS Public Safety Power Shutoff, Saturday, June 27

by Community Contributor • June 26, 2026 • Comments Off

Due to critical fire weather, APS will implement a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) beginning Saturday, June 27 at 9:00 a.m. The outage is expected to last approximately 24 hours and will affect the South Rim, Desert View, and Inner Canyon areas.

Coconino County expanding Stage 1 fire restrictions

by Community Contributor • June 18, 2026 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County will expand fire restrictions in coordination with the Kaibab National Forest. Stage 1 restrictions will take effect on Thursday, June 11, at 8 a.m. for all unincorporated areas within the boundaries of the Kaibab National Forest. All other areas of the County will remain in Stage 1 fire restrictions.

During Stage 1 restrictions igniting, building, maintaining or using a fire fueled by combustible materials such as wood, charcoal, briquettes and/or coal is strictly prohibited, except within a developed site. Smoking is also prohibited, except within an enclosed vehicle or a developed site. The use of tracer or incendiary rounds of ammunition or explosive targets is also strictly prohibited.

County Attorney’s Office launches Step Up Program

by Community Contributor • June 18, 2026 • Comments Off

The Step Up Program provides eligible defendants charged with non-dangerous offenses an opportunity to avoid a criminal conviction by successfully completing individualized treatment and program requirements. Participants who successfully complete the program may have their charges dismissed, while those who fail to comply with program requirements return to the traditional prosecution process.

Firefighters responding to remote lightning fire south of Sedona

by Community Contributor • June 16, 2026 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — Firefighters are responding to the lightning-caused Mundy Fire, located in remote terrain about 5 miles south of Sedona.

Resources responding to the roughly quarter-acre incident include a helicopter, two engines and miscellaneous overhead.

Firefighters are responding to the Mundy Fire with a direct extinguishment strategy, and a goal of confining the Mundy Fire to as small a perimeter as possible as quickly as possible.

Stage 2 fire restrictions on North Kaibab Ranger District to begin Thursday, June 18

by Community Contributor • June 16, 2026 • Comments Off

FREDONIA — Due to increased fire danger and for public safety, the Kaibab National Forest will implement Stage 2 fire restrictions on the North Kaibab Ranger District beginning 6 a.m. Thursday, June 18.

Stage 2 fire restrictions prohibit the following:

Building, maintaining, or using a fire, campfire, or stove fire, including charcoal, coal, and briquettes, even in developed recreation sites. This includes smudge pots, pellet grills, and wood stoves. The only exception is using a stove or grill that is solely fueled by pressurized liquid petroleum or pressurized liquid petroleum gas (LPG) fuels.

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