FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. – The Coconino County Flood Control District Board of Directors has announced that the Upper Rio de Flag watershed has been prioritized for large-scale forest restoration, with work planned across approximately 12,000 acres. The goal is to reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfire and post-fire flooding while strengthening the long-term health of local forests.
Residents and visitors should expect increased log-truck traffic on forest roads and along Highway 180 as work continues in the region.
“Investing in the Upper Rio de Flag Forest Restoration Project creates a safer, more resilient future for Coconino County,” said Patrice Horstman, District 1 Supervisor and Chair of the Board. “This project improves forest health, reduces the risk of catastrophic wildfires and post-wildfire flooding, while ensuring that future generations can enjoy the natural beauty we treasure.”
Project Updates
Hoch Project – 2,045 acres
The Nature Conservancy’s Arizona Forest Program is leading the Hoch Forest Restoration Project. Three distinct sub-project areas have been established, with harvest contractors selected through a competitive process to move restoration forward quickly. Road work and harvesting began in late July 2025.
🔗 Updates: hoch-tnc.hub.arcgis.com
Derffer Project – 3,030 acres
The National Forest Foundation awarded this project to Perkins Timber Harvesting, LLC, a local firm, which is partnering with Bob Lee and Sons Tree Service. Operations began after a pre-operations meeting on August 14, 2025.
Wing East Project – 2,604 acres
Work by Perkins Timber Harvesting, LLC is already 70 percent complete. The project is on track for completion this fall and includes biomass removal and savannah restoration to re-create more open, grassy landscapes with scattered trees.
Wing West Project – 4,865 acres
Restoration Forest Products (RFOR), working with the USFS, Coconino County, and other partners, is focusing efforts along the Highway 180 corridor. Materials are being processed into high-quality lumber at RFOR’s Bellemont sawmill. Work will continue until late 2026 or early 2027.
Leroux Steep/Difficult Slope Project – 1,100 acres
The Flood Control District Board approved $2.4 million in funding this fiscal year. The Coconino National Forest has prepared 900 acres for initial treatment, with a Request for Proposals expected this fall. Work is slated to begin in spring 2026.
“The Upper Rio de Flag Forest Restoration Project is a critical step in protecting our watershed, reducing wildfire risk and minimizing post-wildfire flooding,” said Jay Smith, Coconino County Forest Restoration Director. “This work is a testament to what we can accomplish when partners join forces for the well-being of both our land and our people.”
For more details, visit coconino.az.gov/2083/Forest-Restoration.
