Arizona Steps Up for Annual Wildfire Cleanup
In a decisive move to bolster community safety against wildfires, the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management has taken over the annual cleanup initiative in Flagstaff. This change comes after the dissolution of the Bear Jaw Interagency Fire and Fuels Crew, a key player in past cleanup efforts.
Since 2017, the Bear Jaw crew has been instrumental, clearing approximately 21,000 cubic yards of debris annually, including pine needles from residences and surrounding areas. However, due to “funding limitations and staffing shortages,” their operations have been halted.
Despite this setback, the crucial cleanup event persists, aiming to safeguard homes against the threat of wildfires. PJ Lingley of the state agency emphasized the importance of these efforts, noting, “The number one risk to a home ignition in a wildfire situation is actually proximity to another structure. And so by protecting one’s home, it actually protects your neighbor’s home.”
The future of the event remains uncertain, with discussions ongoing about its potential evolution. Lingley elaborated, “As of right now, there is no plan going forward with the community. They’re still in talks about how to make this happen ongoing, whether it’s an annual or bi-annual event, or if it morphs into something else.”
This week, crews are actively collecting green bags and debris from areas such as Kachina Village, Mountainaire, Pine Del, and Munds Park, continuing efforts to mitigate wildfire risks.
