North Rim Fires Allowed to Burn for Resource Benefit

Grand Canyon, AZ - Two North Rim fires, ignited by recent lightning activity, are being managed under Grand Canyon National Park's Wildland Fire Use strategy. This option allows some lightning-caused fires to burn, under specific conditions and within a predetermined area, for resource benefit. Both fires are being closely monitored and suppression actions will be taken if fire behavior contradicts resource management objectives.

The National Park Service is mandated to preserve and protect park resources and the processes that sustain them. Fire is a necessary process that contributes to a reduction of fuels and a recycling of forest nutrients.

The Marble Fire is located on the Outlet Plateau approximately two miles northwest of the North Rim developed area. It is ½ acre in size and burning slowly in Ponderosa Pine and White Fir duff. The Dutton Fire, on Dutton Point, a remote portion of the Powell Plateau, is approximately twelve miles northwest of the North Rim developed area. It consists of a single burning snag. The fires are barely visible at this point, but fire behavior is expected to increase. Both fires are expected to become more visible as forest fuels begin to dry out.

At this time, no fire related closures have been implemented. Fire Managers will continue to keep a close watch on both the Marble and Dutton Fires. To ensure public safety, it may be necessary to close the W1 Road, the Widforss Trail, and/or other areas as fire activity increases.

For additional information please visit our website at www.nps.gov/grca.