Authorities have decided to close parts of the Tonto National Forest beginning Friday due to drought conditions, hot temperatures and increased fire danger. Details on the two area closures can be found at www.fs.usda.gov/tonto. Also, most types of fire or fire-causing activities (such as fireworks) are prohibited across the Tonto National Forest.
Tonto joins other Arizona locations under closure notices, including Coronado and Apache. Sitgreaves National Forest is under restrictions.
Violation of these restrictions is punishable by a fine of up to $5,000 for individuals, $10,000 for organizations and imprisonment for up to six months.
For more information regarding Tonto forest recreation sites and fire restrictions, contact the Tonto National Forest at (602) 225-5200. For general information on fire activity and restrictions in Arizona, call toll-free (877) 864-6985, or visit the Southwest Coordination Center website — http://gacc.nifc.gov/swcc — or visit www.publiclands.org/firenews/AZ.php
