Public Scoping for Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot National Monuments’ Fire Management Plan/Environmental Assessment

Date: April 4, 2011
Contact: Ed Cummins, 928-567-3322 x227

National Park Service News Release
For Immediate Release – APRIL 4, 2011
Ed Cummins, Chief Ranger, MOCA/TUZI, 928-567-3322 x227

Public Scoping for Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot National Monuments' Fire Management Plan/Environmental Assessment 

The National Park Service (NPS) has initiated an environmental assessment (EA) for Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot National Monuments regarding the management of fire and hazardous fuel reductions within the national monument boundaries. We are seeking public comment for this project during the public scoping period. 

Currently there are two proposed alternatives. The proposed action alternative would allow for implementation of a full range of fire management activities. Wildland fire management actions could include suppression and the use of prescribed fire for resource benefit. The main focus of these activities and treatments is centered on public and firefighter safety, communities identified as at risk from wildland fires (Wildland Urban Interface), historic fire regimes, current condition class, and collaboration with other agencies and stakeholders. 

The no action alternative would continue to manage wildland fires consistent with the existing Fire Management Plan and Categorical Exclusion. Fire management activities would be in response to emergencies and to protect people and park resources. 

At this time, the Superintendent is announcing a 30-day public scoping period to solicit public comments on this proposal. During this scoping period, the public is invited to identify any issues or concerns they might have with the proposed project so that the National Park Service can appropriately consider them in the preparation of the Environmental Assessment. You may submit suggestions, comments, and concerns electronically (the NPS's preferred method of receiving comments) at the NPS's Planning, Environment, and Public Comment (PEPC) website at: http://parkplanning.nps.gov/ (select Montezuma Castle & Tuzigoot National Monuments). 

Written comments may be sent to:
Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot National Monuments
Attn: Superintendent Kathy Davis
PO Box 219
Camp Verde, Arizona 86322 

Please submit your scoping comments by May 1, 2011. Once the draft EA is completed, it will be made available for public review for a 30-day period. If you wish to be added to the park's mailing list for this or other announcements, please be sure to indicate that in your response.     

--NPS--