NEWS RELEASE

September 14, 2004
Rick Hartigan 928-638-7944 - for media use; 928-638-7819 - for public use

Walhalla Prescribed Fire Proceeding

Grand Canyon, AZ - Fire managers at Grand Canyon National Park continued ignition of the 3200 acre Walhalla Prescribed Fire yesterday on the North Rim. Using ground and aerial ignition techniques, firefighters expanded the burn area from that black-lined the day before. The fire remained within the prescribed area and varied in intensity from low to moderate.

A large amount of smoke has been generated by this fire, drifting primarily in an east northeasterly direction, but also settling into the canyon. Persons with cardiac, respiratory or other health related problems should be advised to take appropriate precautions. Hikers are advised to plan their hikes with awareness of this condition.

It is expected that ignition and burning will be completed today. Smoke is expected to be noticeable for another week as burning within the interior of the fire continues.

Bright and Quartz Fire-Use Fires Continue

Progress continues on the Bright Fire and the Quartz Fire. Started by lightning in mid-July, they are providing the needed fire behavior and effects. The Bright Fire is currently 802 acres while the Quartz Fire is 443 acres.

Closures continue on the Old Bright Angel Trail and on the Ken Patrick Trail from the Uncle Jimmy Trail to the Cape Royal Road. The W1 Road to Point Sublime may be closed later today due to fire activity and smoke from the Quartz Fire.

Learn more about Grand Canyon's Fire Management Program at http://www.nps.gov/grca/fire. For additional information, please call 928-638-7819.