2024 - West Fire - TNF (AZTNF)

Wildfire Status:

The West Fire, currently active four miles northeast of Pine, Arizona, has burned approximately 15,074 acres since its ignition on August 28, 2024. This lightning-caused wildfire is being managed under a confine and contain strategy aimed at protecting private lands and nearby communities, including Camp Geronimo, Geronimo Estates, and Bray Creek Ranch. The primary objectives of this management approach are to reintroduce fire into the ecosystem, reduce hazardous fuel accumulation, and improve watershed conditions and wildlife habitat, ultimately mitigating the risk of future high-severity fires.

Fire agencies, led by Incident Commander Tadd Fagerud, are actively coordinating efforts with local fire management organizations. The current response includes the use of controlled burns, known as "bone piles," to manage fuel buildup safely. The Payson Hotshots, a local firefighting crew, have been instrumental in the containment efforts due to their familiarity with the terrain and fire behavior in the Tonto National Forest. Authorities are also employing a smoke forecast and have created an interactive evacuation status map to keep the public informed.

Weather conditions in the area are critical to fire management efforts, with fire crews exercising patience to wait for favorable conditions before conducting controlled burns. Public safety remains a priority, leading to temporary changes in traffic routes for affected residents and prohibiting unauthorized drone flights over the fire area to ensure the safety of personnel on the ground. As the situation evolves, updates will continue to be provided to the community and stakeholders involved.

Visit Inciweb Incident Page for more information. Information on this page is provided for informational purposes only.

Containment History:

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