Long Jim Prescribed Fire Update

May 6, 2004 - The Long Jim prescribed fire was ignited early yesterday morning. Later that morning spot fires began igniting north of the main fire and ran towards the rim, crossing over Highway 64 east. Firefighters were able to contain most of the 285-acre escaped portion by yesterday evening, but not before an advisory evacuation, numerous traffic delays and road closures occurred.

Prescribed fire is an important tool used to reduce the risks of wildfire to nearby communities, however it carries it's own set of risks. "Although we can not entirely eliminate those risks, we can anticipate and prepare for them. Yesterday, we were prepared by having a contingency plan in place and enough crews and equipment to carry out that plan." said Kate Canon, the park's Deputy Superintendent. "It is not always possible for us to meet burn objectives if prescribed fires are conducted in mild conditions."

Crews continued to patrol for and suppress spot fires today. Crews also began to mop up and improve fire lines throughout the day. Cooperating agencies assigned to the Long Jim Prescribed Fire include the Bureau of Indian Affairs, U. S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, Tusayan Fire Department, and a number of private contractors. For updated information, please call the park's fire information line at 928-638-7819, or visit the park's fire web site at www.nps.gov/grca/fire