Single Publication

Fredonia, Arizona, June 20, 2023 - The Three Lakes Fire started by lightning on June 16 is located approximately 6 miles south of Jacob Lake between Forest Road 217 and AZ-67. It is currently 42 acres burning in ponderosa pine forest with a low to moderate rate-of-spread.

The overall strategy will be to allow fire to burn as it would naturally as long as it can be safely managed while meeting objectives. This fire is occurring within a planned future prescribed fire unit. The fire will be monitored as it spreads with the goal of reducing hazardous fuel accumulations while restoring and maintaining forest health. It will also be beneficial for increasing protection of wildlife habitat and sensitive watersheds. Resource specialists will take great care to protect cultural and natural resources in and around the proposed burn area.

Size is expected to increase on this fire as growth is largely influenced by weather, available fuels, and terrain.

Smoke may be visible from various forest roads in and around the vicinity of Jacob Lake, including State Routes 67 and 89A, and Forest Roads 217, 260, and 462. Smoke impacts may be anticipated for Jacob Lake, State Routes 67 and 89A, and House Rock Valley.

Fire personnel and vehicles will be visible to the public at these locations. Motorists and visitors are asked to avoid active hot areas and are reminded to use caution and drive with heightened awareness when passing through any fire vicinity. There are no closures in place currently but are anticipated as the fire grows.

The Kaibab National Forest is one of many fire-adapted ecosystems. It is dependent on fire to play a natural role in maintaining vibrant forest health. Decades of fire suppression has caused an abundance of fuels to build up, which can leave the forest vulnerable and susceptible to more dangerous high-severity wildfires. Managing naturally caused wildfires across the landscape is a very effective tool in restoring the forest to a healthier condition.

Additional information can be found on the Kaibab NF website, Twitter, Facebook, Flickr, or by calling the Fire Information Hotline at 928-635-8311 or local ranger stations.