Coronado forest targets 1,025 acres in fuel reduction burn | Local News

TUCSON, Ariz. (KVOA) – A controlled burn operation is coming to an area near Sonoita as forest officials work to protect homes and wildlife habitat from potential wildfires.

The Nogales Ranger District will conduct the Gardner Pile Burn between Sept. 9 and Sept. 23, according to Coronado National Forest officials. Weather conditions and regulatory approvals will determine the exact timing.

Crews will burn piles of vegetation north of Gardner Canyon Road and east of Kentucky Camp. The operation targets fuel buildup near private properties and land managed by the Bureau of Land Management and the state.

Forest officials said the project aims to lower the risk of severe wildfires threatening the Wildland Urban Interface, wildlife areas, grazing lands, and other vulnerable zones. The fuel reduction effort is designed to alter fire behavior and intensity rather than prevent fires entirely, making future suppression work more effective.

The multi-year initiative plans to treat 1,025 acres total. Officials expect to eliminate 75% to 100% of the piles during each operational period while reducing ladder fuels and surface vegetation.

People living nearby or visiting the area may notice smoke during the burns. Air quality information is available through the AirNow website.

Forest Service personnel will assess weather conditions shortly before ignition. Unfavorable conditions could lead to cancellation of scheduled activities.