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The Interpretation Division of Grand Canyon
National Park partnered with the Information section of two
Wildland Fire Use Teams managing the Dragon Complex on the
North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park to distribute public
information about fires in the park. The Dragon Complex fires,
ignited by lightning on June 22nd, produced smoke that impacted
visitors to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.
The Grand Canyon National Park’s Interpretive
Division responded to the challenge of providing fire information
and education to thousands of visitors at popular canyon view
points. By July 20th interpreters had contacted over 10,600
visitors along the rim, answering questions about the smoke
and other impacts of the fire. With as many as 5 interpreters
working at viewpoints during the critical afternoon and sunset
hours, visitors had ample opportunity to learn more about
Wildland Fire Use.
Fire Information 0fficers assigned to the
fire coordinated the effort, and kept the interpreters updated
with regular information. Six portable information displays
were produced that included current fire maps, photos, and
press releases. Although the displays provided focus for discussions
with visitors, it was the enthusiasm and skills of the interpreters
that ensured the success of this effort.
The overwhelmingly positive response from
visitors to the message is great testimony to the value of
providing timely and accurate information. Likewise, teaching
visitors from all across the United States and the world about
the positive aspects of Wildland Fire Use, benefits not only
Grand Canyon National Park, but the entire wildland fire program.
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