FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — The U.S. Forest Service (USFS) has ignited the annual green waste burn at the Willard Springs Green Waste Site, which is located about 15 miles south of Flagstaff at Exit 326 on the west side of I-17.
The burn is necessary to reduce the existing stockpile of pine needles, tree trimmings, and other green waste at Willard Springs before the start of the 2025 fire season.
The Willard Springs green waste burn is expected to produce smoke during its ignition period. Based on wind and weather conditions, this smoke may be heavy at times and visible to motorists on I-17. The Coconino National Forest plans to post signage on I-17 as necessary to notify motorists about smoke from the burn and to drive with caution.
Willard Springs has accumulated approximately 25,000 cubic yards of green waste since it opened for free green waste-only disposal last April. This includes green waste deposited by County residents and through specialty events like the Bear Jaw Community Cleanup, which collected 5,000-6,500 cubic yards last spring.
The green waste burn is expected to smolder until the middle of February depending on weather conditions. It will be monitored by the Mormon Lake Ranger Station, Pinewood Fire Department, and Coconino County Public Works. The department’s Solid Waste Program team also will be regularly stirring the green waste piles throughout the process to promote a homogenous, even burn that will help to minimize smoke.
When smoke levels are high, the appropriate protective measures should be followed:
- Avoid breathing smoke if you can help it. Reduce or avoid outdoor activities.
- Make sure air conditioning/heating units have a clean filter in the air intakes. Devices with High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters can reduce indoor pollution.
- Use the recycle or re-circulate mode on the air conditioner/heater in your home or car.
- Avoid activities which can increase indoor pollutants such as cooking and vacuuming.
People with pre-existing conditions should avoid exposure to smoke as much as possible and consult their physician if they have any questions or experience health-related issues. More information regarding the health effect of smoke from prescribed burns and wildfires is available at www.coconino.az.gov/DocumentCenter/View/57544.
Coconino National Forest has established a new Smoke Complaint Hotline for the public at (928) 226-4608. Callers can their name and number if they would like to speak to fire leadership regarding smoke impacts and prescribed burn concerns.
